Why Workplace First Aid Matters
Accidents and medical emergencies can happen anytime, making workplace first aid a critical part of employee safety. In Canada, employers are legally required to have first-aid measures in place, including trained personnel and properly stocked first-aid kits. Ensuring compliance with federal and provincial regulations protects employees and helps businesses avoid potential penalties and liabilities.
Canadian Workplace First Aid Regulations
Workplace first-aid requirements vary by province and are guided by federal and provincial regulations. The Canada Labour Code sets the baseline for federally regulated workplaces, while provincial regulations define specific requirements for local businesses. Here’s a general overview:
1. First Aid Kits
Every workplace must have adequate first-aid supplies based on the number of employees and the type of work being performed. The contents of the first aid kit must align with provincial guidelines and should be checked regularly to ensure all items are available and within expiry dates.
2. Trained First Aid Attendants
Employers must ensure that a sufficient number of employees are trained in first aid. The level of training required depends on:
- The number of employees in the workplace
- The type of industry (low-risk vs. high-risk)
- The distance to the nearest medical facility
3. First Aid Stations & Rooms
Larger workplaces or those in high-risk industries may require dedicated first aid stations or rooms equipped with essential medical supplies.
4. Incident Reporting & Record Keeping
All workplaces must maintain proper records of injuries and first aid treatments provided. Employers must also report serious injuries to provincial workplace safety boards.
Provincial First Aid Requirements
Each province has specific first aid regulations. Below are links to some of the provincial guidelines:
- Ontario: Workplace Safety & Insurance Board (WSIB)
- British Columbia: WorkSafeBC
- Alberta: Alberta Occupational Health & Safety
- Quebec: CNESST
For the exact requirements in your province, it’s best to consult local workplace safety authorities.
How First Aid Plus Can Help Your Workplace Stay Compliant
At First Aid Plus, we provide everything your business needs to meet Canadian workplace first aid requirements, including:
1. First Aid Training & Certification
We offer Standard First Aid, Emergency First Aid, CPR, and AED training that meets provincial and federal workplace requirements. Our courses are available in various formats, including in-person and blended learning.
2. First Aid Kits & Supplies
We supply CSA-compliant first aid kits tailored to workplace requirements, whether you operate in an office, construction site, or industrial setting.
3. AEDs & Emergency Equipment
We provide and maintain Zoll AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators) to help businesses prepare for sudden cardiac emergencies.
4. Workplace Assessments & Compliance Support
Our team can help assess your workplace to determine the right level of first aid coverage and ensure you’re compliant with local safety regulations.
Get Workplace-Ready with First Aid Plus
Ensuring workplace safety isn’t just about compliance but protecting lives. Whether you need first aid training, workplace assessments, or certified first aid kits, First Aid Plus is here to help. Contact us today to learn how we can help your workplace meet Canadian first aid requirements!