First Aid
In B.C., workplace first aid attendants must have a certificate that's recognized by WorkSafeBC. The level of first aid services required for a workplace depends on the number of workers, distance to medical aid, and industry hazard rating. Thompson Rivers University is an authorized provider of the following first aid training programs under WorkSafeBC to certify attendants who successfully complete the programs:
| OFA Level 1 | Basic level first aid training and certification |
| OFA Level 2 | Intermediate-level first aid training and certification |
| OFA Transportation Endorsement | Training required for transportation of injured workers as required by Schedule 3-A |
| OFA Level 3 | Advanced level of first aid training and certification |
XOCH 0800 - WorkSafeBC Occupational First Aid Level 1
You will learn the priority action approach to provide lifesaving first aid enabling you to keep your co-worker or yourself alive until help arrives. Skills include primary survey, management of obstructed airway, one-person CPR with AED, shock and bleeding management, as well as how to treat minor wounds. No previous first aid training is required. Upon successful completion of this course, you will receive a three-year certificate. The minimum age limit is 16 years of age. Students must provide a picture ID at the start of class. Acceptable photo identification includes a driver's license, student card, recreation centre pass, BCID, or passport.
Date: TBDCourse Duration: 8 classroom learning hours
Course Fee: $165 (includes student manual and pocket mask)
XOCH 0690 - CPR C/AED
This six-hour Red Cross Course on cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) provides the skills to recognize and respond to cardiovascular emergencies and choking for adults, children and babies.
Course Duration: 8 classroom instruction hours
Course Fee: $105
XOCH 0780 - Transportation Endorsement
This WorkSafeBC course provides Occupational First Aid, Level 1 and 2 certificate holders with the required training to move injured workers. The curriculum includes:
- Patient handling and lifting techniques
- Use of the spine board and basket stretchers
- Spinal immobilization techniques
- Patient assessment and treatment during transport
- Critical interventions
- Transportation method
Upon successful completion, you will receive a Transportation endorsement certificate. This certificate expires with the Occupational First Aid Level 1 or 2 certificates.
A transportation endorsement ticket is required in any Class A hazard job that is located more than 20 minutes of surface travel from a hospital when the crew size is two to 10 workers.
Prerequisite: A valid Occupational First Aid Level 1 or 2 certificate. Candidates must be at least 16 years of age.
Date: TBD
Course Duration: 8 classroom learning hours
Course Fee: $155
XOCH 0820 - Occupational First Aid Level 3
This WorkSafe BC comprehensive first aid course covers the medical techniques considered to be within the responsibility of the first-aid attendant providing emergency care in the industry. The program is 70 hours and the curriculum includes:
- Basic life support and CPR (CPR A)
- Patient assessment
- Critical airway and respiratory, interventions with C-spine management, including insertion of oral airways, use of oxygen therapy equipment, and bag valve mask
- Circulatory interventions and management
- Small wound, soft tissue, and fracture management
- Rapid transport criteria
- Suction
The final written exam is scheduled at the end of the course, with your practical skills tested throughout the course.
Successful candidates will receive a certificate valid for three years.
Please bring a photo ID to the first class.
It is highly recommended that you—especially if you’re a first-time student—pick up your books early as there is pre-reading and homework that needs to be completed.
This WorkSafeBC program is designed for remote worksites or employers with large workforces located more than 20 minutes from medical aid.
Please note: You do not have to take Level 1 or Level 2 to take Level 3.
Course Duration: 70 classroom learning hours
Course Fee: $1295
