Regulations
Regulations Governing the First Aid CPR Industry in Ontario
🏢 1. Workplace Safety and Insurance Act, 1997 (WSIA)
- Mandatory Employer Compliance: Employers are legally required to provide comprehensive first aid training in accordance with Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) regulations.
- First Aid Kit Enforcement: All workplaces must maintain WSIB-mandated first aid kits, fully stocked and readily accessible at all times.
- Certified Personnel Obligation: Employers must ensure a certified first aid/CPR-trained individual is present during every shift without exception.
⚖️ 2. Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA)
- Non-Negotiable Compliance: Training providers must adhere strictly to OHSA standards to protect workplace health and safety.
- Instructor Credentials: Only qualified instructors with WSIB-approved certifications are authorized to deliver training.
📜 3. WSIB-Approved Training Programs
- Strict Program Authorization: Training programs must be explicitly approved by WSIB to qualify as valid workplace certifications.
- Comprehensive Course Requirements: Programs must include:
- Standard First Aid & CPR/AED Level C
- Emergency First Aid & CPR/AED
- Basic Life Support (BLS) for high-risk industries.
- Hands-On Training Mandate: Courses must integrate hands-on practice to meet regulatory standards.
🧴 4. Public Health Guidelines
- Uncompromising Hygiene Protocols: Training equipment, such as manikins, must be rigorously sanitized after every use.
- Mandatory Mask Fit Testing: Participants in respirator fit tests must meet clean-shaven policies without exception.
♿ 5. Accessibility Standards (AODA)
- Accessibility Is Non-Negotiable: Training facilities are required to meet the stringent standards set by the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA).
- Inclusive Learning Materials: Providers must ensure that all training resources are accessible and accommodate participants with disabilities.
📅 6. Certification Validity & Renewal
- Mandatory Recertification: Certifications are strictly valid for a maximum of three years. Renewal training must meet WSIB-recognized standards.
- Annual BLS Renewal for Professionals: High-risk industries, including healthcare, require annual recertification to remain compliant.
😷 7. COVID-19 Adjustments
- Enforced Safety Measures: Providers must adhere to public health mandates, including:
- Reduced class sizes to ensure physical distancing.
- Mandatory use of PPE (masks, gloves) during all sessions.
- Implementation of hybrid or online theory sessions.
🛡️ 8. Liability and Insurance
- Mandatory Liability Coverage: Training providers must maintain robust liability insurance to address potential claims arising from injuries during sessions.
- Strict Participant Waivers: Every participant is required to sign a liability waiver before attending any practical training.
💵 9. Consumer Protection Measures
- Absolute Fee Transparency: Providers must disclose all training costs upfront, including certification and material fees.
- Ironclad Refund Policies: Providers must establish and enforce clear refund and rescheduling terms.
🩺 10. Industry-Specific Standards
- Healthcare Sector Mandates: Professionals in healthcare are required to complete and maintain BLS certifications to meet industry-specific demands.
- Childcare Training Requirements: Educators and childcare workers must undergo specialized training, including Pediatric First Aid.
For additional resources, visit:
WSIB First Aid Requirements
Ontario Ministry of Labour
Public Health Ontario for updates on health and safety standards.