Complete Grading Course

People who successfully complete this course are entitled to receive a grader license if employed by an OLMA-member producing mill. If they are not employed by an OLMA-member producing mill, a ‘completion of course certificate’ is issued. This certificate is not a license.

Course Description and Details:

Part 1: Theoretical

In this portion of the course attendees study the National Lumber Grades Authority (NLGA) standard grading rules. The course structure and length is based on the number of grading rule paragraphs studied, as described below. There is a written exam at the end of this course.

Part 2: Practical

In this portion of the course attendees learn how to identify, measure and apply the NLGA rules to lumber of various sizes in practical runs. There is a 100-piece testing exam at the end of this course.

An overall passing mark of 75% is required. Theory counts for 25% and the practical portion is 75% of the overall mark. A minimum required testing mark of 80% on practical and 60% on theory is required to pass.

A substantial amount of lumber of various sizes and quality are required for the practical runs.

The complete grading course length is approximately four full days depending on attendee feedback.

Note: A course for Eastern White and Red Pine will vary in length depending on how many paragraphs are chosen. Approximately three to five days are necessary.