The CLSAB was established in 1960, when the federal government of Canada, under the National Housing Act, passed a requirement for lumber to be grade stamped, and identified a need to standardize and build integrity into the grade stamping process.

Started in 1960 in CSA 

It started out as an administrative board in the Canadian Lumber Standards division of the world-renowned Canadian Standards Association (CSA). Over the next two decades, the Board oversaw and refined the process for grade stamping of lumber. Its success meant designers, builders and regulators could rely on uniform performance for products bearing grade stamps from CLSAB-accredited Agencies. That, in turn, made it possible to use a whole infrastructure of practical design guides and simple-to-use tables for construction in wood.

Independent in 1982

In 1982, a separate, federally incorporated, no-share, not-for-profit organization was established. With its independent, consensus Board of Directors and a commitment to continual improvement, it works to advance the process and independent auditing of Canadian grade stamp reliability across the country and around the world.

Referenced in standards and building codes 

CLSAB derives its authority, structure and mandate from CSA 0141 Softwood Lumber. That standard, referenced in Canada’s National Building Code, calls for lumber to be graded under CLSAB-approved rules by agencies accredited by the CLSAB.

CLSAB is still the only body recognized by CSA and Canadian building codes for the accreditation of Lumber Grading Agencies.