CPD Guideline for 2012- Frequently Asked Questions

What if I work part-time or are retired? Are there exemptions from the program?
As compliance with the CPD guideline is voluntary, there is no exemption process in place. Should the program become mandatory, members who are unemployed, not working due to health or disability reasons, on parental-maternity leave or enrolled in certain full time education programs would likely submit a written request for special consideration to have the annual number of PDHs reduced.

When will the new guideline take effect?
As the voluntary reporting of CPD compliance runs on a calendar year, the new CPD guideline will take effect January 2012.

What types of activity qualify as professional development under the Guideline?
There are many ways that members can accrue professional development hours. Activities such as journal reading, self-directed study, mentoring, attending conferences, tradeshows, seminars and webinars, volunteering on committees of a technical or professional nature are some of the ways to earn professional development hours. For a more in-depth list, please view the CPD guideline.

Can I carry-over hours to future reporting years?
Should you accrue more hours than the maximum allowable in a particular category, you may carry forward those PDHs to future reporting years. PDHs are to be used within three years of the activity.

How do I declare compliance with the guideline?
Each year as part of the annual fee renewal process, members can declare compliance by ticking a box and stating the total number of hours accrued. Alternatively, members can declare compliance by using the APEGBC Member portal and clicking on the CPD Reporting tab.

Do I need to submit detailed activity reports in order to declare compliance?
No, members are not required to submit detailed activity reports. Members should keep records of their CPD activities and may use APEGBC’s online recording centre, if they wish.

Why should I voluntarily declare compliance?
Declaration provides the association a way to demonstrate to the public that its members are keeping up-to-date in their area of practice. As well, members who choose to declare compliance are recognized with a Declared CPD Compliant note in the online public member directory.

Other Questions? Please send email us at cpd@apeg.bc.ca .