Understanding first aid requirements in Ontario is essential for any employer looking to maintain a safe and compliant workplace. The Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) outlines specific obligations, including the need for stocked first aid kits and trained personnel, based on the size and nature of the workforce. Employers should also regularly review and update their first aid procedures to ensure ongoing compliance and to protect the health and well-being of their teams.
Why take First Aid Training
First Aid Training is an essential part of maintaining a safe and compliant workplace. In Ontario, Regulation 1101 of the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act requires that all businesses have at least one First Aid certified employee on site at all times. Training requirements also vary depending on the number of employees per shift. Beyond meeting legal obligations, First Aid Training equips individuals with the skills and confidence to respond effectively in emergencies, helping to reduce harm and potentially save lives.
What First Aid is required for workplace?
In addition to having a first aid kit readily available, the OHSA also requires that at least one person in the workplace be trained in first aid and able to provide care in the event of an emergency. This person is known as the “first aid attendant”.
First aid attendants must be certified by a recognized first aid training provider, and must complete regular refresher courses to maintain their certification.
How many First Aiders are required in a workplace in Ontario?
The number of first aid attendants required will again depend on the size and nature of your business, as well as the potential risks and hazards present in your workplace. For example, a small office with low-risk activities may only require one first aid attendant, while a construction site with high-risk activities may require multiple attendants to ensure adequate coverage.
How often do you need to renew First Aid Training?
In Ontario, Standard First Aid Training must be renewed every three years to remain valid. If your certificate is still current and issued by the Canadian Red Cross, you may be eligible for a recertification course, which also provides a three-year certificate. However, you can only take the recertification once, after that, you’ll need to retake the full Standard First Aid course to stay certified.
What first aid kit do i need?
Under the OHSA, all Ontario workplaces must have a first aid kit readily available for use. The type and size of the first aid kit will depend on the size and nature of your business, as well as the potential risks and hazards present in your workplace.
For example, a small office with low-risk activities may only require a basic first aid kit, while a construction site with high-risk activities may need a more extensive kit with additional supplies. It’s important to consult with a certified first aid provider to determine the appropriate kit for your workplace.
In addition to the first aid kit, employers are also required to have additional supplies on hand, such as eye wash stations and resuscitation masks, to address specific hazards and injuries.
How many first aid kits are required in my workplace?
There’s no set number of first aid kits required based on how many employees you have. What matters most is that your kits are easy to access when they’re needed. They should be portable, kept out of locked cabinets or drawers, and placed somewhere visible, ideally with a sign so everyone knows where to find them. The goal is to make sure help is never far away in an emergency.
Developing first aid plans for your organization
In addition to having first aid kits and trained personnel, organizations are also required to have a written first aid plan in place. This plan should outline the specific procedures and protocols for providing first aid in the workplace, including the location of first aid kits and the roles and responsibilities of first aid attendants.
The first aid plan should be reviewed and updated regularly to ensure it remains effective and compliant with the OHSA. This can include consulting with first aid providers, reviewing incident reports, and conducting regular workplace assessments to identify potential hazards and risks.
First Aid reporting and record keeping
Under the OHSA, employers are required to report and keep records of all workplace injuries and incidents, including those that require first aid. This can help to identify trends and patterns, and can also be used to improve the effectiveness of your first aid plan.
Employers are required to maintain records of all first aid incidents, including the date and time of the incident, the type of injury or illness, and the first aid provided. These records must be kept for at least two years, and must be made available to the Ministry of Labour upon request.
Why compliance with Ontario’s First Aid standards is essential
Complying with the OHSA’s first aid requirements is important for the safety and well-being of your employees, as well as for the success and reputation of your business. In the event of an injury or emergency, having the appropriate first aid kit and trained personnel on hand can help to minimize the impact and prevent further harm.
Additionally, failure to comply with the OHSA’s first aid requirements can result in legal penalties, including fines and potential legal action. Ensuring that your workplace is adequately prepared for first aid incidents can help protect your business from these consequences.
Understanding and complying with the workplace first aid requirements in Ontario is essential for the safety and success of your business. By having the appropriate first aid kits and trained personnel on hand, as well as a written first aid plan in place, you can help ensure the well-being of your employees and protect your business from potential legal issues. Regularly reviewing and updating your first aid plan can also help to ensure it remains effective and compliant.
Stay compliant with OSG’s expert First Aid Training for your team
OSG, as a trusted Red Cross Training Partner, helps organizations across Ontario meet first aid compliance requirements by providing effective, WISB-approved training. We make it easy to train your team members with the skills they need to respond confidently in any emergency. Partner with OSG and ensure your workplace stays safe and compliant. Enroll your team in Standard First Aid Training today.