GSAR National Certification Program
Welcome to the GSAR National Certification Program (GSAR-NCP)
The GSAR National Certification Program (GSAR-NCP) is designed to establish a standardized process for ensuring Ground Search and Rescue (GSAR) members meet nationally recognized competencies. Through certification and endorsement, the program supports the professional development of SAR responders across Canada.
Endorsement
The endorsement process is a quality assurance measure that grants recognition to training courses meeting GSAR standards. While SARVAC is not currently an endorsing body, a structured endorsement process is being developed and is anticipated to launch in the fall of 2024. This process will primarily benefit third-party training providers seeking official validation of their courses.
Certification
Certification verifies that an individual has acquired the necessary knowledge, experience, and skills to perform a specific SAR role, as outlined in the CSA Standard Z1620-15. National Certification is available for:
- Searchers
- Team Leaders
- SAR Manager
Roles and Responsibilities
Application Forms
Candidate Application
Searcher Application
Team Leader Application
SAR Manager Application
Legacy Application Searcher Certification
Legacy Application Team Leader Certification
Core Competency Check Sheet
GSAR Associations
- Understand the GSAR-NCP process, policies, and requirements.
- Identify key training positions, including trainers, coordinators, and assessors.
- Collaborate with operational authorities (police and other agencies).
Groups/Teams
- Plan, schedule, and document training activities.
- Integrate CSA Z1620-15 core competencies into training programs.
- Maintain and update training records to ensure compliance with current standards.
- Assist individuals requiring accommodations for training and certification.
Individuals
- Complete required SAR training and meet CSA Z1620-15 core competencies.
- Have training verified and recorded by a designated Assessor.
- Apply for National Certification through the GSAR-NCP application process.
- Maintain accurate personal training records to facilitate certification applications.
Legacy National Certification
Legacy national certification may be granted to any Searcher upon written request to the GSAR-NACP Administration Office by their P/T Association through the Legacy Application. To be granted legacy, a member should be in good standing with a GSAR group for at least 10 years, within the P/T Association, or by AHJ.
As part of the Legacy Application, an Assessor must attest to the individual’s continued service and training as a Searcher, and that the competency requirements, continued training and experience for Searcher as outlined in CSA Z1620-15 Core competency standards for ground search and rescue operations: Searcher, Team Leader, and SAR Manager have been met. Legacy applications will only be considered until December 31st, 2024.
Privacy Policy
Personal information will only be collected as needed for the Administration of the GSAR-NCP for the purposes of Certification. Information will be stored securely and in accordance with existing federal and/or provincial/territorial requirements. The GSAR-NCP falls under SARVAC’s cyber insurance policy.
Get Certified Today!
If you are a GSAR member looking to achieve National Certification or a training provider interested in future endorsement opportunities, stay informed about upcoming developments.
For inquiries, please contact us at nacpadmin@sarvac.ca.
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