WorkSafeBC is urging employers across British Columbia to prepare for new occupational first aid requirements set to take effect on November 1, 2024. The upcoming changes, which amend the province’s Occupational Health and Safety Regulation (OHSR), will alter first aid standards in many workplaces, particularly in high-risk and remote industries.
The amendments, introduced to strengthen current regulations and align with standards set by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA), mark the first major update to B.C.’s occupational first aid requirements in nearly two decades. According to WorkSafeBC, these changes will improve first aid provision and emergency response, leading to better outcomes for injured or ill workers.
One of the key motivations behind the revisions is to address challenges related to emergency transport for workers in remote areas. The new rules will provide greater flexibility in how employers can meet first aid and transportation needs, allowing for options such as air transport where necessary.
Changes to first aid certification, kits, and training
Under the new regulations, the classification for first aid certification will shift. The familiar Level 1, 2, and 3 certificates will be replaced by “Basic,” “Intermediate,” and “Advanced” levels, aligning with CSA standards. Employers will also need to ensure that their first aid kits meet the updated standards, with additional requirements for personal protective equipment, record-keeping, and oxygen therapy in “advanced” kits.
The amendments also require employers to conduct and document a two-part first aid assessment for every workplace. These assessments will determine the appropriate level of first aid resources, which could change based on the accessibility of the worksite.
First aid attendants will now be required to undergo more advanced training, particularly in emergency transport. “More workplaces will require first aid attendants to be trained with the skills and knowledge needed to prepare and transport injured or ill workers to medical aid,” WorkSafeBC noted in its announcement.
Annual first aid drills and updated guidelines
Another significant addition is the requirement for annual first aid drills. Employers must run these drills yearly or whenever substantial changes to procedures occur.
WorkSafeBC has released preliminary guidelines to help employers comply with the new regulations. Employers are advised to review these guidelines and assess whether they need to adjust their first aid programs. Changes may include additional training for first aid attendants or acquiring new equipment before the November deadline.
WorkSafeBC emphasizes that the responsibility for providing adequate first aid lies with employers, and they must take necessary steps to ensure compliance.