WorkSafeBC has updated the Occupational Health & Safety (OHS) Regulation for workplace first aid, effective November 1, 2024. Employers are now required to ensure their workplaces have the appropriate first aid services, trained attendants, equipment, supplies, facilities, and emergency transportation based on a written first aid assessment.
Key Updates:
New regulations align BC first aid standards with CSA guidelines, clarifying kit contents, facilities, and transport requirements.
Compliance depends on completing a written first aid assessment tailored to each workplace location and shift.
See the official announcement: WorkSafeBC update
How to Determine Requirements:
Conduct a written first aid assessment for each location or shift.
Consider factors such as worker numbers, hazard level, site remoteness, response time, and unique risks.
Use assessment results to define the minimum required services, attendants, equipment, supplies, facilities, and emergency transportation as specified in Schedule 3-A.
Tools and templates: First Aid Assessment Worksheet (PDF/Online)|First Aid Requirements Overview
First Aid Kits – Types & Contents:
WorkSafeBC specifies four types of first aid kits with minimum recommended contents:
Personal Kit
Basic Kit
Intermediate Kit
Advanced Kit
For full details, download the official info sheet: First Aid Equipment, Supplies & Facilities (Oct 2024).
Attendants & Training:
The number and level of attendants (basic, intermediate, advanced) are determined by the assessment and Schedule 3-A.
Attendants must hold WorkSafeBC-approved certification and be present during required shifts.
Reference: OHS Regulation Part 3, Schedule 3-A
Facilities & Equipment:
Depending on worker count, risk level, and site remoteness, dressing stations or first aid rooms may be required.
First aid kits must remain clean, accessible, and regularly inspected/restocked.
See guidance: Supplies, Equipment & Facilities
Emergency Transportation & Remote Worksites:
Where required by assessment, provide an Emergency Transport Vehicle (ETV) or equivalent.
ETVs must:
Protect patients from weather
Allow safe care during transport
Include internal/external communications
Meet design standards (e.g., ~1 m headroom)
Guidance: OHS Guidelines Part 3 (G3.16)
Recordkeeping & Procedures:
Maintain written first aid procedures and conduct regular drills.
Document all injuries and treatments, retaining records as required by regulation.
