If you’ve searched for “Emergency First Aid” recently and landed on something called Basic First Aid instead, nothing is wrong. Ontario renamed its workplace first aid courses in June 2026, when the WSIB’s modernized First Aid Program took effect. Emergency First Aid is now called Basic First Aid — same level, new name.
What Basic First Aid covers
Basic First Aid is the entry level of Ontario workplace first aid certification. A Basic First Aid + CPR/AED course covers the response skills most likely to matter in the first minutes of an emergency:
- Emergency scene management — staying safe while you help
- Primary assessment of an ill or injured person
- CPR and how to use an AED (automated external defibrillator)
- Choking response for conscious and unconscious casualties
- Severe bleeding control, wounds and bandaging
- Recognizing and responding to common medical emergencies
Who needs Basic First Aid?
Under Ontario’s workplace first aid requirements, workplaces must have trained first aiders — and the level depends on factors including how many workers are on a shift. Workplaces with up to five workers per shift commonly rely on Basic First Aid; workplaces with six or more typically need Intermediate First Aid (formerly Standard First Aid). Your employer makes the final determination, so confirm before you book.
Beyond workplaces, Basic First Aid is a practical choice for students whose programs require entry-level certification, coaches, parents and anyone who wants real response skills without committing to the comprehensive course.
How the blended format works
Ontario’s current program, aligned to CSA Z1210:24, permits blended delivery: you complete the knowledge portion online at your own pace, then attend an in-person practical session for hands-on skills and assessment. At First Aid Responder, the Basic program totals 8 hours — online theory plus a practical session of about four hours, typically 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM.
One caution: no legitimate Ontario workplace first aid certification is available 100% online. The practical skills assessment must happen in person. Be wary of any provider suggesting otherwise.
Basic vs. Intermediate — which one do you need?
Intermediate First Aid covers everything in Basic, then adds detailed patient assessment, injury management, burns, environmental emergencies and team response scenarios. If your employer, college or placement agency says “Standard First Aid,” they mean Intermediate. If they say “Emergency First Aid,” they mean Basic. When in doubt, ask them — or ask us.