When we think about accidents in the workplace, our minds often go to jobs that are naturally dangerous — construction workers, emergency service teams, or chefs working near open flames and sharp tools. While training and safety protocols make these environments safer, accidents can still happen.
Yet the truth is that every workplace can be dangerous, even ones that seem perfectly safe. Office workers can still face trips, slips, burns, or even cuts. Retail employees risk tripping on merchandise or falling from step ladders. The possibilities are endless.
That is exactly why first aid training is essential in all Ontario workplaces. It is not only a legal requirement — it is a vital safeguard for keeping your team healthy, safe, and confident in emergencies. So, what first aid training does your workplace require? That may depend on your company’s size and your industry, but here is a quick overview.
Under Ontario’s Workplace Safety and Insurance Act (WSIA), every covered workplace must have employees certified in first aid.
1–5 employees per shift: At least one employee must hold an Emergency First Aid certificate.
6 or more employees per shift: At least one employee must have a Standard First Aid certificate.
These requirements apply to most Schedule 1 and Schedule 2 workplaces across Ontario. However, some exceptions exist, such as casual workers hired outside the core purpose of the business (think of doing occasional snow clearance for a factory) or individuals who work from home.
Certain sectors in Ontario have more specific first aid requirements due to the nature of their work. For example:
Early Childhood Educators: Must complete Standard First Aid with CPR/AED Level C, as mandated by the Ministry of Education under the Day Care Act.
Dental Hygienists: Require CPR Basic Life Support (BLS), which includes rescue breathing and use of bag-valve masks.
Electricians: Must complete Emergency First Aid with CPR/AED Level A, focused on adult emergencies.
Chiropractors: Require Emergency First Aid with CPR/AED Level A, and potentially Level C if treating children.
These are just a few examples. Each profession has its own regulations, so it is important to verify the training required for your specific industry to remain compliant.
In addition to training, Ontario workplaces must be properly equipped. The CSA outlines what must be included in your first aid kit or first aid station.
Having the right supplies on-hand can make all the difference in an emergency. Durham First Aid can help you review the regulations and ensure your workplace is stocked and compliant. We offer a variety of complete first aid kits for the workplace that all meet Ontario WSIB Regulations.
While Ontario law mandates at least one trained employee per shift, one certificate is rarely enough.
Consider what might happen if your only certified team member is injured, on vacation, or simply away on a break. The WSIA does not require a strict ratio of trained-to-untrained employees, but it does require that a trained individual can reach an injured worker within two minutes.
That is why group first aid training is highly recommended. Training multiple staff members at once not only improves safety coverage but also strengthens teamwork and preparedness across your workplace.
Certification is only valid for so long, and for good reason. While some of the core principles in first aid are well established, others change as we gain a better understanding of science and medicine. There may be more efficient ways of performing a certain technique, or a safer way of doing things.
Regular recertification ensures your team remains up to date with the latest safety standards and medical best practices.
If you have any questions about your workplace or what first aid training and products you will require, our team is here to help. Whether you manage an office, factory, retail store, or health clinic, Durham First Aid can help you navigate Ontario’s workplace safety requirements.
Our certified instructors specialize in Red Cross–approved training, group sessions, and industry-specific compliance. We make it simple for your organization to meet legal obligations — and build a safer, more confident workplace.
Contact Durham First Aid today to schedule on-site or classroom first aid training for your team.
