Build Higher.
Work Safer.
Lead Together.
The Access Association of Canada is the national voice for scaffolding, suspended access, MEWPs, and mast climbing — connecting every corner of the industry to standards, community, and advocacy that matters.
Thank You to Our Platinum Sponsor
Who Are You?
Jump straight to what’s relevant. Find the codes, tools, and support built for your exact role in Canada’s access industry.
Scaffolding
A scaffold is a temporary structure supporting a platform positioned at an elevation above the ground. Its purpose is to provide a working surface to support workers and their necessary tools and material. A scaffold must have at least one platform and can be supported from the ground or suspended from overhead supports.
Tube and Clamp Scaffold
A versatile and traditional system using steel or aluminum tubes (1.9\” O.D) and clamps. Standards are vertical load-bearing tubes. Ledgers are horizontal connecting tubes. Transoms support planks or decking.
Frame Scaffold
One of the most commonly used systems in construction. Standard 5 foot by 5 foot frame and walk-through arch frame are most common, very popular in masonry construction.
System Scaffold
A modular system evolved from tube and clamp principles, utilizing specialized connections such as wedge heads, rosette devices, or other modular connection methods.
Suspended Access
Suspended access is a platform varying from 1 to 12 metres in length, suspended from permanent or temporary supports on the roof of a building. Modular configurations allow maximum flexibility. Capacities up to 680 kg with manual, air-powered, or electric lifting devices.
Typically used by window washers, restoration contractors, window installers, caulking contractors, or any trade requiring elevated access.
Fall Protection
The greatest safety challenge for the access industry. Over 70% of all scaffold-related fatalities are falls from the platform or during access/egress. PFA systems must contend with anchorage, free fall, swing fall, energy absorption, obstructions and impalement hazards.
Guardrails are the most common and effective fall protection for supported scaffolds. The AAC Fall Protection Committee develops industry best practices with regulatory agencies and equipment manufacturers.
Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs)
The first portable scissor platform dates from the early 1800s. Internal combustion engines added in the 1930s, battery power in the 1960s. Tens of thousands ranging from 15 to 150 feet are employed daily in industrial and construction environments across North America.
Regulated in Canada by the CSA B354 family of standards covering material, manufacture, testing, maintenance and operator training requirements.
Mast Climbing Work Platforms (MCWPs)
A mechanized modular scaffold system consisting of vertical mast columns and a mechanized platform that climbs the mast. Used to position workers, their tools and materials at elevated work locations.
Key Components: Mast sections (~1.5m modular), platform modules, drive/power unit, tie systems, bases (mobile or static), materials cranes and installation jibs.
Advantages: High capacities, less labour than conventional scaffold, ergonomic environment, combines material handling with access.
Training & Certification
Are you interested in joining the scaffolding industry or want to update your skills? We utilize training programs through our alliance with the Scaffold & Access Industry Association.
Online Training is now available! Visit SAIA Online or contact them at 816.595.4860 or info@saiaonline.org.
Why Join the AAC?
Canada’s only national organization for the scaffolding and access industry. Your membership advances the entire sector — and gives you a competitive edge from day one.
- 01
Shape Regulations Before They Shape You
AAC members have direct input into Canadian access codes, CSA standards, and provincial regulations. Your voice reaches the room before the rules are written.
- 02
Instant Credibility with Every Client
The AAC mark tells project owners, GCs, and insurers you operate to the highest national standards. A badge your non-member competitors simply cannot claim.
- 03
Free Access to All Codes of Safe Practice
Unrestricted access to all AAC Codes — scaffolding, suspended platforms, shoring, MCWPs, AWPs, and fall protection. Non-members can’t get these anywhere else.
- 04
A National Network That Actually Works
56 member organizations from coast to coast. Referrals, partnerships, and new business flow through the AAC community every single year.
- 05
Free Subscription to Access Canada Magazine
Canada’s only industry-specific publication — bi-annual, distributed to 1,200+ professionals. Members receive complimentary copies automatically.
- 06
Discounted Training for Your Whole Team
Member rates on the AGM, safety workshops, certification programs, and SAIA-alliance training courses — available to every employee in your organization.
- 07
Global Intelligence, Applied to Canada
As the Canadian voice in global networks spanning the USA, UK, Europe, and Australia, AAC members receive early intelligence on international standards before they reach Canadian shores.
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Everything You Need
Codes of Safe Practice
The definitive Canadian reference for safe scaffolding, suspended platforms, shoring, and access equipment — written by practitioners, for practitioners.
Access Codes
Regulatory Compliance Guide
Navigate provincial and federal regulations across all 10 provinces. Know exactly what applies to your work, crews, and equipment before you mobilize.
View Guide
CSA & National Standards Index
Reference index for applicable CSA Group and National Building Code standards for access systems — regularly updated with AAC member input.
Browse Standards
Training & Certification Programs
AAC-recognized programs through the SAIA alliance: Competent Person, Mast Climber Operator, User Hazard Awareness, Journeyman Scaffolder, and more.
Find Training
Incident Reporting & Trend Analysis
Industry-wide anonymous incident reporting. Access aggregate national trend data to continuously improve your safety program and reduce risk.
Report / Browse
Member Resource Library
Toolbox talks, safety signage, inspection checklists, risk assessment templates, and pre-mobilization forms — free and downloadable for all AAC members.
Open LibraryUpcoming Events
Where the industry gathers — from the national AGM to regional workshops and safety certification days.
2026 Annual General Meeting
Register NowAAC Awards Gala 2026
Celebrating excellence in safety, innovation, and craftsmanship across Canada’s access industry.
Safety & Compliance Workshops
Hands-on sessions by certified practitioners covering codes, inspection protocols, and fall protection systems.
Board of Directors
The AAC is governed by industry practitioners elected by our members — people who work in the field every day.
Committee Chairs
Access Canada
Magazine
The official voice of Canadian scaffolding and access. Published twice yearly, covering safety innovation, regulatory updates, major project showcases, and the people building Canada.
Connected Worldwide
The AAC maintains active relationships with access associations globally — bringing international best practice home to Canada before it becomes mandatory.
Ready to Raise
the Standard?
Join Canada’s national access and scaffolding association. Your membership makes the entire industry stronger, safer, and more connected.