New first aid requirements will come into effect for British Columbia employers in a few weeks.

On Tuesday, WorkSafeBC reminded employers to prepare for the changes that come into effect on November 1. Changes are being made to the Work Health and Safety Regulations (OHSR).

Employers should review the changes and ensure their first aid program meets the new standards.


“This may require additional first aid training for attendants and the acquisition of new or different equipment,” explains a WorkSafeBC spokesperson.

According to the announcement, the new first aid requirements will impact many workplaces, particularly those located in areas not accessible to BC emergency health services or specific equipment.

“The goal of the amendments to the OHSR is to improve existing requirements and align workplace first aid in British Columbia with CSA (Canadian Standards Association) standards,” explains the spokesperson.

WorkSafeBC recognizes the challenges of providing appropriate emergency transportation for injured workers in remote locations.

We hope the new requirements will lead to better outcomes in the event of injury or illness, the agency says.

Starting November 1, first aid kits must include personal protective equipment and a first aid file. Advanced kits will need to have oxygen therapy equipment.

First aid drills are part of the new regulations and require employers to conduct drills annually as well as whenever there are substantial updates to procedures.

The new regulations include emergency transportation and allow greater flexibility in selecting alternative methods such as air transportation. More and more workplaces will require first responders to be trained and have the skills and knowledge to prepare and transport injured or ill workers to medical help.

Employers will be required to complete and document a two-part first aid assessment. Minimum first aid levels may change for some workplaces and new requirements may be imposed for less accessible workplaces.

Changes include aligning first aid certification levels with CSA standards. Level 1, 2, and 3 certificates and kits will now be called Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced.

For more details on the changes, visit WorkSafeBC. Anyone with questions about the new requirements can call 1-888-621-7233.