What’s New?
As of November 1, 2024, WorkSafe BC has updated the OHS Regulations with First Aid requirements to align with the Canadian Standard Association for First Aid training and supplies. This is significantly different than the prior requirements.
To help with Community Social Services members, resources and tools have been developed to help guide through the changes. Follow the links to access these resources.
For more information about regulatory changes, please find the information available from WorkSafe BC.
Why is First Aid important?
An effective First Aid program is a fundamental part of a functional workplace. Having a proper First Aid program will guide injured workers during the critical immediate moments after an injury to access necessary care. With timely treatment, overall injury duration and severity of injury can be reduced having a positive outcome for workers. With time, you can expect WorkSafe BC costs to be reduced because of the reduced claims.
The updated regulations require CSSHSA members to have the following elements in place. Have a look at each of the elements to see how effective your program is and for resources to further improve.
First Aid provisions requirements will vary depending on different workplace factors. Since every operation may be different, the first aid requirement for a location is based on a First Aid Assessment which takes into consideration
- Number of workers
- Hazard level of activities
- Proximity to emergency services
TEMPERATURE CHECK
For Community Social Services members, a First Aid Assessment tool has been developed to guide them to understand what the requirements for your operation will be. Use the tool to determine what First Aid resources need to be in place for your operation.
Access the tool here: First Aid Assessment tool.
Once you have completed the First Aid Assessment checklists have been developed to support in organizing your First Aid Program. Find the Smart First Aid Supply Checklists below.
First Aid Produces provide instructions to workers to give them a basic understanding of First Aid program for your organization and how to respond. Workers / Contractors / Visitors may refer to these instructions if they need First Aid help. Procedures are often posted on the Health & Safety board but may be found in the visitor log, next to a common phone, etc.
TEMPERATURE CHECK
For Community Social Services members, a customizable First Aid Instruction template has been provided. Use the template to ensure that your instructions have the all the details needed in the event of a First Aid Incident.
Access the template here: First Aid Instruction template.
First Aid Attendant must receive the appropriate level of training. The level is determined from First Aid Assessment based on the relative hazards and number of workers present in the worksite.
First Aid Training has changed from the levels Occupational First Aid levels prior and has aligned with the Canadian Standards Association Z1210-17.
NOTE: All first aid training is not created equal, please ensure you provide the correct type of First Aid Training for your workplace to your first aid attendants. Qualified providers have many types of First Aid Training.
Refer to the First Aid Assessment to determine what level First Aid Attendant and how many you require for your facility.
WorkSafeBC list of qualified First Aid Training Providers.
A First Aid Program can only be successful with the necessary supplies, resources, and personnel to support in the management of workplace injuries. First Aid Attendants have been trained with the understanding that a minimum level of sterile supplies & resources is at their disposal to provide the highest level of care to injured workers.
TEMPERATURE CHECK
To support CSSHSA members, a ‘Smart Checklist’ has been developed to support your delegate with ensuring the supplies, resources, and personnel are adequate for the location.
Access the ‘Smart Checklist’ here: First Aid Smart Checklist template.