BASICS.fst® and Advanced.fst® (online) are web based food safety training programs. They allow associates to complete the entire food safety training course online, with the exception of the exam. These programs are equivalent to municipal or local public health food handler certificates and are valid for five years for BFST and three years for AFST once completed. In Compass Group Canada, Advanced.fst® certificates are valid for only three years. One of the benefits of web based learning is that the programs allow you to work at your own speed through each chapter. Associates qualify for the Basics.fst® only if it is mandated by the municipality or regional health department where the unit is located. Managers and operations staff that are the person-in-charge (PIC) are required to take Advanced.fst®. The course must be completed within 30 days of registration.