Research into important industry issues expands our collective knowledge and evolves best practices.

RSP Fund
Summary

The research and special projects fund is a common pool of funds from the membership for the organization to distribute to relevant research and projects.  In 2016, this fund included investment in sustainability projects, wage & benefits data collection, the association website and branding, OH&S resource development, and an upgrade to accreditation standards and procedures.  These marked continued investment in the industry's professionalism and safety.

WSBC/Gougeon Noise exposure of Heliski guides project

WorkSafe BC and Gougeon Insurance contributed sponsorship to undertake a project quantifying the noise exposure risks for guides when working in and around helicopters.  This project measured the effect of helmets and various hearing protection on the transmission of noise.  The findings indicated the importance of wearing hearing protection when exposed to helicopter noise and the ability of hearing protection to function when wearing a helmet.

Socio-Economic
Imapct Assessment

The 2016 year involved a project to report on the social and economic impact of the sector on the province of British Columbia.  This report demonstrates the quantitatively measured economic effects of the sector, including the output, GDP and employment alongside the qualitatively reported impact of the sector on the communities in which the sector operates.  The report highlights the importance of the largely export industry impacts for these rural towns.