New Certification Paths for Ice Facility Operators

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The Manitoba Regulation 9/2025 amends the Power Engineers Regulation (Manitoba Regulation 40/92) under the Power Engineers Act, bringing changes to the certification and operation requirements for power engineers. The regulation introduces the definition of an “ice facility plant,” referring to a refrigeration plant used to make and maintain artificial ice surfaces for recreational purposes. This new definition is reflected in the regulatory amendments, highlighting the specific qualifications for operators of such plants. In terms of plant classifications, the regulation modifies the provisions governing the location of machinery, aligning with the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) B52 Mechanical Refrigeration Code.

A fundamental change in the regulation is the introduction of a new Ice Facility Operator Class certificate. This certificate classifies operators specifically for ice facility plants and establishes a clear hierarchy in the qualifications needed. The Ice Facility Operator Class is ranked one level below the Refrigeration Class Certificate, ensuring that operators of refrigeration plants are adequately qualified. Several provisions were also altered to accommodate this new classification, including amendments to subsections concerning operator roles, such as shift engineers, and the inclusion of specific responsibilities for refrigeration and ice facility plant operators.

The regulation also revises the qualification requirements for various plant roles. A notable change is the adjustment of experience requirements for applicants, including those seeking certification as Ice Facility Operators. These applicants are now required to demonstrate experience in refrigeration plant operations or ice facility plants, as outlined in the updated schedules. Furthermore, the qualifying period for becoming an Ice Facility Operator is set to three months, with the possibility of a shortened qualification period for individuals who complete an approved ice plant operator course.

Additionally, the amendments extend to operational roles within refrigeration plants. New clauses define the responsibilities of operators acting as chief engineers and shift engineers in refrigeration plants. The regulation also modifies the structure of some clauses, ensuring the transition of certifications and the clarity of roles within the updated framework.

Overall, the regulation aims to standardize qualifications and ensure that operators meet the necessary skills to manage refrigeration and ice facility plants, promoting safety and operational efficiency across these specialized facilities. The changes emphasize the importance of maintaining high standards in plant operations and providing a clear pathway for operators to advance their careers.

Manitoba (9/2025) January 31, 2025