The COR® Program

The Certificate of Recognition

The Certificate of Recognition (COR®) is a national occupational health and safety accreditation program.

It verifies that an employer has implemented a health and safety management system that meets established national standards. COR® confirms that a company has developed, documented, and put into practice a structured system to identify hazards, control risks, train workers, investigate incidents, and continuously improve safety performance.

Once certified, companies must continue to maintain their COR® by completing regular internal reviews and periodic audits to ensure the system continues to operate effectively.

COR® certification is valid for three years, provided the company maintains its eligibility in the program and continues to meet COR® program requirements.

Each year following the three-year internal and external COR® certification audit cycle, companies that meet these requirements receive a Letter of Good Standing confirming that their health and safety program continues to meet COR® standards.

  • The Canadian Federation of Construction Safety Associations (CFCSA) establishes the national framework for the COR® Program and authorizes one association in each jurisdiction to issue certification.

    In the Northwest Territories and Nunavut, the Northern Safety Association is the sole authority permitted to grant COR®.

    This means all certifications within these territories are administered and validated through the Northern Safety Association in accordance with national COR® standards. For employers operating in the North, this ensures certification is both territorially recognized and nationally credible, providing a single, consistent point of authority for COR® accreditation.

  • COR® Certification is more than a credential — it is a strategic advantage.

    Many government, mining, energy, and infrastructure contracts require COR® as a condition of bidding.

    Beyond eligibility, COR® strengthens due diligence, reduces incident-related costs, improves workforce reliability, and demonstrates to clients and regulators that your company meets recognized safety standards. In remote and high-risk operating environments, a verified safety management system protects your workers, safeguards your reputation, and positions your company as a credible and competitive northern contractor.