Understand the Changes to First Aid Regulatory Requirements

Updated: September 25, 2024

Updated: July 5, 2024

WorkSafeBC recently published new resources to assist employers in planning for the implementation of the Regulatory changes. Check out go2HR’s updated ‘Employer To-Do List’ below to better understand next steps in staying compliant and providing adequate first aid for your workers.

Employer To-Do List: (as of July 5, 2024)

• Conduct a mock First Aid Assessment for your workplace using WorkSafeBC’s First Aid Assessment Worksheet.
• With your assessment results in mind, consider reviewing the newly published WorkSafeBC Resources:
  • First Aid Changes – FAQ’s
  • First Aid Equipment, Supplies, & Facilities
  • Minimum First Aid Requirements
  • Workplace Hazard Ratings
  • First Aid Training Providers
• Download the updated Recommended Implementation Timeline and make a note of any key dates.
• Start planning to tackle tasks such as buying supplementary first aid supplies, updating first aid procedures, and planning a first aid drill.
• Get in touch with our Health and Safety Team for one-on-one guidance to better understand and implement these changes.
• Keep your eyes open for future updates by adding this webpage to your favourites and signing up for employer newsletters and e-Blasts.

Overview of the Regulatory Changes 

On June 8, 2023, WorkSafeBC released approved amendments to the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Regulation regarding workplace first aid. These amendments, which will take effect on November 1, 2024, will place a greater emphasis on high-risk, remote workplaces, and are intended to harmonize the Regulation with the Canadian Standards Association (CSA).

As November 1, 2024 approaches, employers will need to transition their current first aid program to meet these new requirements, including the following key considerations:

• Updates to conducting First Aid Assessments:
  • must be written/documented
  • reviewed and updated annually, or whenever a significant operational change occurs
  • prepared, reviewed, and updated in consultation with the JHSC or worker health & safety representative
• Changes to classifying workplaces (Classes 1- 4) in Schedule 3-A:
  • Class 1: a workplace other than class 2, 3, or 4
  • Class 2: a workplace that is remote but not less-accessible
  • Class 3: a workplace that is less-accessible but not remote
  • Class 4: a workplace that is both remote and less-accessible
• New mandatory requirements for first aid procedures, drills, kits, and certificates:
  • Procedural review and conducting a drill must be done annually or whenever procedures change to ensure that procedures are effective and workers and attendants are capable of fulfilling their roles and responsibilities
  • First aid kits must meet CSA Z1220-17
  • First aid training must meet CSA Z1210-17
• Specific requirements to provide emergency transportation for an injured worker, if an ambulance cannot safely reach the workplace within 30 minutes (in certain situations)
  • Employer-provided emergency transportation must be capable of safely transporting the injured worker and first aid attendant with effective communication protocols. The ETV should be designed and equipped to ensure the injured worker is secure and protected from natural elements and dust. Normal body temperature must be maintained and there must be adequate space for the first aid attendant to safely provide first aid during transport
  • Refer to Schedule 3-A to determine when emergency transportation is required
• Additional direction for dressing stations, first aid rooms, and overnight care:
  • Dressing stations and first aid rooms must be located as near as practicably possible to work areas, be kept clean and sanitary, have a sink with warm and cold potable water, adequate signage, and be large enough for an injured worker, first aid attendant, and all the equipment to fit inside
  • Overnight care facilities are required for locations that are required to have a first aid room and where under normal travel conditions, hospitals are further than 2 hours away

Employers are encouraged to take a phased approach to the changes. Additional guidance and recommendations will be developed and published as November 2024 grows nearer. go2HR will circulate these updates so employers can plan and implement these changes accordingly.

For further insights to the changes, explore the links below:

• First Aid Amendments to OHS Regulation
• Preliminary First Aid Guidelines
• Backgrounder Info Sheet

Have questions about these First Aid Changes or need help with another workplace health and safety matter? Contact our Health & Safety Team online or call 604-633-9787.

go2HR is the Human Resources and Health & Safety Association for BC’s tourism and hospitality industry. Our role is to drive strong workforces and safe workplaces that deliver world-class tourism and hospitality experiences in British Columbia.