First aid attendants are a lifeline for those who become injured or ill in the workplace.

In order to cover a broader spectrum of medical issues, and align treatment protocols with Canadian and international best practices, occupational first aid training requirements are changing in British Columbia on July 1, 2018, WorkSafeBC has revealed.

The organizations has said it regularly reviews the occupational first aid training program to ensure that it is keeping up with best practices and has modified training to reflect this.

Here’s what you need to know:

• Current certification remains valid until the expiry date on the certificate.
• The new certificates, which have a different look, will be issued beginning July 1, 2018, for those who are renewing or taking training for the first time.
• First aid attendants have the option of taking supplementary training to upgrade their skills; however, they will only receive a new certificate if they complete the new training program in its entirety.
• As part of the process, the Occupational Health and Safety Guidelines are also being reviewed and updated. More information about this will be provided in the coming months.