What should a Certificate of Fitness holder do if their certificate is lost?

If a Certificate of Fitness holder loses their certificate, the best course of action is to apply for a new certificate. This is important because the certificate verifies that the individual has met all necessary training and qualifications to perform their duties safely and effectively. Working without a valid certificate can lead to compliance issues and potential risks in safety and operational responsibilities.

While reporting the loss to a supervisor or waiting for a replacement might seem practical, these actions do not restore the holder’s credentials or ensure they are legally compliant while operating in their role. Keeping on the job without the certificate undermines the entire purpose of having formal certification and could result in penalties or liabilities. Thus, taking proactive steps to secure a replacement by applying for a new certificate is the appropriate and responsible approach.