BSS: Frequently Asked Questions
OBEC, is pleased to announce the launch of the Building Science Specialist Board of Canada (BSSB). OBEC is currently working with the other BECs across Canada to offer the Building Science Specialist (BSS) designation. The BSSB will promote the Building Science Specialist designation across the country, leading to greater prestige for holders of the BSSO, and giving the designation increased authority. As part of this process, we’re doing away with the Professional Member category; you will become an individual member holding the Building Science Specialist designation. Here’s what you need to know.
What does the BSSB do?
The BSSB administers the entire process leading to the granting of the Building Science Specialist designation, including offering the exams and working with universities/colleges to design and update courses. It will also be responsible for granting the designation and recertifying its holders.
As a current BSSO holder, what does the BSSB mean for me?
OBEC, together with the other Canadian BECs, is pleased to announce the launch of the Building Science Specialist Board (BSSB). The BSSB will promote the Building Science Specialist designation across the country, leading to greater prestige for current holders of the Building Science Specialist of Ontario (BSSO), and giving the designation increased authority. As part of this process, we’re doing away with the Professional Member category in Ontario. As a current BSSO, you will become an individual member holding the Building Science Specialist (BSS) designation. Here’s what you need to know.
Will the BSSB have a major impact on me?
Absolutely not! As noted, you’ll be an individual member of OBEC, so your membership dues will be reduced, and you’ll pay an annual license fee to the BSSB to maintain your designation. The total amount you’ll be paying actually decreases by $30; you’ll simply be paying it to two different organizations. Your continuing education requirements also aren’t changing.
What is “recertification”? Is this a change?
In order to continue using your BSSO designation, you have to meet two criteria:
- You must remain a member in good standing of OBEC
- You must comply with your ongoing continuing education (CE) requirement
In other words, there are no major changes. The only change is that you’ll report CE credits to the BSSB instead of OBEC. Even the reporting form will be virtually the same – other than the BSSB logo replacing the OBEC logo.
When the BSSB takes over, do I have to requalify for my designation?
No, as an existing BSSO designation-holder, you’re grandfathered into the BSSB’s system.
We think you’ll find this new system beneficial, and its impact on you will be almost nothing. The fact that you’re being licensed by an external body should add credibility to the designation, and, as this program grows across the country, more qualified Building Science Specialists will only enhance its prestige and authority. It’s a win all the way around!
