The CLA offers two types of softwood grading courses:

• RED & WHITE PINE - Appearance Grading for Exposed Applications (Grading rules paragraphs 117,118,151-163);
  
  
• STRUCTURAL (SPF) - For construction Applications (Grading rules paragraphs 121-124).

Both courses are 5-day workshops tailored to provide industry personnel who have a basic working knowledge of lumber a true understanding of softwood lumber grading. The courses are also an excellent introduction to those with no prior experience in the lumber sector. The course includes a thorough study and explanation of the National Lumber Grades Authority (NLGA) Standards Grading Rules for Canadian Lumber with a focus on Grading Theory (i.e., General provisions, Glossary of items, Intended use of a given grade, Seasoning, Moisture relationships, and defect evaluation).

At the conclusion of the courses, students are required to pass a written examination (Theory) as well as a practical test (visual inspection/grading of wood samples). Successful candidates qualify to receive a grading permit.

The courses are offered in English only. However, our inspectors are bilingual.