Complaints and Discipline
The Alberta Society of Professional Biologists (ASPB) is a self-governing organization registered under the Professional and Occupational Associations Registration Act (POARA). ASPB achieved this status in 1991, when the Alberta Government delegated self-governing responsibilities to the Society to safeguard the public interest. Through POARA, the Professional Biologists Regulation, and the ASPB Bylaws, the Society ensures members meet the required education and experience standards to become Professional Biologists and provide safe, ethical, and competent services.
This mandate is also supported through the Society’s Continuing Competency Program (CCP).
Professional Accountability
ASPB further regulates biology professionals by maintaining a disciplinary process when a complaint is received from either a member of the public or a member of the Society. This helps protect the public by ensuring biology professionals are:
- adhering to the Code of Ethics, and
- acting within their area of competence.
Discipline Committee
The ASPB Discipline Committee reviews and responds to any report of non-professional behaviour by a member of ASPB that is inconsistent with the Code of Ethics. ASPB takes reports of such behaviour seriously, and complaint submissions are managed in accordance with Part 3 of POARA (Professional and Occupational Associations Registration Act, RSA 2000, c P-26).
Before You File a Formal Complaint
In any dispute, it is important that the parties involved try to resolve the issue directly where possible. If this is not possible, or the situation cannot be resolved, the next step is to file a formal complaint with ASPB.
Lodging a Formal Complaint
Any member of the public or the profession may file a complaint against a Professional Biologist.
To file a complaint:
- The complaint must be submitted using the Complaint Form provided by ASPB, and
- it must be signed by the complainant.
Important: If the member is contacted, they will receive the original documentation, including the complainant’s name.
Submitting Your Complaint
A member of the public who wishes to file a complaint must complete and sign the complaint form and submit it, along with any supporting documentation, by either:
Email: [email protected]
Subject Line: ASPB Member Complaint
Mail (Canada Post):
ASPB Member Complaint
1450 - 707, 7th Ave SW
Calgary, AB T2P 3H6