What is HARP Certification?
HARP (Healing Arts Radiation Protection) certification is an Ontario requirement for individuals who operate dental X-ray equipment. The certification ensures that individuals operating X-ray equipment are properly trained to use, process, and handle dental radiographs according to the HARP Act.
HARP certification training covers the theoretical and practical areas of dental radiography, ensuring that trained individuals are able to maintain the equipment while also protecting themselves and patients from unnecessary radiation exposure.
How do I get HARP Certified?
Anyone can get a HARP certificate, whether they have a dental background or not.
The first step to getting a HARP certification is to find a HARP-approved and accredited institution like Dental Training Canada. Individuals should also ensure that the course covers important topics like properties and interactions of radiation, biological effects of radiation, background radiation, measurement, production, and characteristics of x-rays, and more.
The course should also include theoretical and practical aspects as well as a qualifying examination to obtain the certification.
Why Choose HARP Certification?
HARP certification has many important benefits, including qualifying individuals to fill shortages in dental offices and in healthcare settings. Other reasons to obtain HARP certification include:
1. Upskill and demonstrate professional competence
HARP certification helps existing dental office staff upskill and fill vacant roles within the dental office. Dental office staff can obtain this certificate to increase their earning power while also positioning themselves to fill roles that require demonstrated knowledge and competency in handling x-ray equipment, ensuring radiation safety, and more.
2. Boost Employment Opportunities and Fill Staff Shortages
Many dental offices across Ontario have reported shortages in dental support staff. With a HARP certification, individuals with or without prior dental office experience can boost their employment chances while filling real-life shortages in dental offices across Ontario.
Having a HARP certification also looks great on your resume and can stand you out from the crowd during the screening and interviewing process.
3. Improve Patient Safety
A HARP-approved course or program often contains aspects that teach about personal and client radiation safety. Obtaining a HARP certification ensures that individuals can protect themselves and their clients from unnecessary radiation and its side effects.
4. Gain Continuing Education Points
HARP certifications are also a great way to gain continuing education points, which are required from dental professionals. With HARP certification, individuals already in the dental field can stay current with the new developments in radiation technology and safety.
5. Career Advancement
HARP certification can also help with workplace advancement, especially for dental staff like receptionists who wish to take on more responsibilities and earn more.
Where to Find HARP Certified Dental Training
HARP Certificate Course Providers | Cost | Duration | Location |
Dental Training Canada | 6 weeks theory 1 practical weekend | Multiple locations in Ontario (Guelph, Woodbridge, North Bay, Thunder Bay) | |
DDS Masters | $1,995 | 7 weeks | Multiple locations in Ontario |
George Brown College | $1,498 | 60 Hours | 3 Campuses |
Southern Ontario Dental College | $1,497 | 8 weeks | --- |
Sparks Academy | $3,500 | 4 weeks | --- |
