First Aid, CPR & AED Training in Ontario: Complete Guide to Certification Courses
This content is part of our First Aid Training in Ontario program designed to provide WSIB-recognized certification pathways across CPR, Basic First Aid, and Intermediate First Aid training.
First aid training is one of the most valuable certifications an individual can obtain. Whether for workplace compliance, professional development, or personal preparedness, completing a recognized first aid course ensures you are ready to respond during medical emergencies.
In Ontario, there are three primary first aid certifications available: CPR & AED classes, the Basic First Aid course (formerly Emergency First Aid), and Intermediate First Aid training (formerly Standard First Aid). Each course is designed to meet different workplace requirements and levels of emergency response responsibility.
A Note on Course Name Changes (June 2026)
As of June 22, 2026, the WSIB launched an updated First Aid Program aligned with the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) Z1210:24 national standard. Course names have changed:
| Old Name | New Name |
|---|---|
| Emergency First Aid | Basic First Aid |
| Standard First Aid | Intermediate First Aid |
Your legal obligations under Ontario Regulation 1101 have not changed. The course content, duration, and certification validity are all the same. Certificates issued before June 22, 2026 remain valid until their expiry date. STS Group is approved under the updated WSIB program.
In Ontario, there are three primary first aid certifications available: CPR & AED classes, Emergency First Aid course,
and Standard First Aid training. Each course is designed to meet different workplace requirements and levels of emergency response responsibility.
What Is First Aid Training?
First Aid Training in Ontario teaches individuals how to assess emergency situations, provide immediate care, and stabilize injured or ill persons until professional medical help arrives. It combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on practical skills such as CPR, AED use, bleeding control, and injury management.
Employers across Ontario often require certified staff to ensure compliance with workplace safety regulations and to create a safer working environment.
All of these certifications fall under our structured First Aid Training in Ontario program, which helps individuals and organizations choose the right level of training.
CPR & AED Classes: Focused Life-Saving Skills
CPR & AED classes focus specifically on cardiopulmonary resuscitation and the safe use of an automated external defibrillator. These classes teach participants how to:
- Perform high-quality chest compressions
- Provide rescue breaths
- Recognize cardiac arrest
- Operate an AED safely and effectively
This certification is ideal for individuals who need resuscitation skills but do not require full first aid training. It is commonly required for fitness professionals, teachers, security staff, and healthcare support roles.
Note: CPR certification alone does not satisfy Ontario Regulation 1101 workplace first aid requirements. A full Basic First Aid or Intermediate First Aid certificate is required for workplace compliance.
Basic First Aid Course: Essential Workplace Certification
(Formerly Emergency First Aid)
The Basic First Aid course expands beyond CPR to include life-threatening emergencies such as severe bleeding, shock, choking, and medical conditions like heart attacks or strokes.
This one-day course is typically required for low-risk workplaces and provides foundational emergency response training. Participants leave with CPR & AED certification included.
Certificates issued on or after June 22, 2026 will say “Basic First Aid.” Certificates issued before that date under the old name “Emergency First Aid” remain valid until expiry.
Intermediate First Aid Training: Comprehensive Emergency Response
(Formerly Standard First Aid)
For individuals who need more advanced skills, Intermediate First Aid training offers a more in-depth curriculum over two days.
This course includes:
- Advanced wound care
- Head and spinal injury management
- Environmental emergencies
- Detailed medical condition response
- Full CPR & AED certification
Intermediate First Aid is required for workplaces with 6 or more workers per shift. It is commonly required in higher-risk workplaces such as construction, manufacturing, childcare, and industrial settings.
Certificates issued on or after June 22, 2026 will say “Intermediate First Aid.” Certificates issued before that date under the old name “Standard First Aid” remain valid until expiry.
Difference Between CPR, Emergency First Aid & Standard First Aid
Understanding the difference between these certifications helps individuals choose the correct course:
CPR & AED Classes: Focus only on cardiac arrest response and defibrillation.
Basic First Aid Course: Covers CPR plus basic life-threatening emergencies in a one-day format.
Intermediate First Aid Training: Provides the most comprehensive emergency response training over two days.
Why First Aid Certification Matters
Medical emergencies often happen outside of hospitals. Immediate response can prevent complications, reduce recovery time, and in some cases, save lives.
Having certified employees also helps businesses meet occupational health and safety requirements while promoting a culture of preparedness and responsibility.
This is why most training pathways are structured under our
First Aid Training in Ontario program.
How Long Are First Aid Certifications Valid?
Most CPR, Basic First Aid, and Intermediate First Aid certifications are valid for three years. Renewal ensures your skills remain current and aligned with the latest emergency care guidelines.
Who Should Take First Aid Training?
- Employers and supervisors
- Construction and industrial workers
- Teachers and childcare providers
- Fitness trainers and coaches
- Parents and caregivers
- Community leaders and volunteers
Choosing the Right First Aid Course in Ontario
If your requirement is strictly resuscitation skills, CPR & AED classes may be sufficient. If your workplace has 1 to 5 workers per shift and requires broader emergency response capabilities, the Basic First Aid course is the appropriate choice. For workplaces with 6 or more workers per shift, or high-risk environments and leadership safety roles, Intermediate First Aid training provides the required coverage.
All of these options are part of our First Aid Training in Ontario program, designed to ensure compliance, confidence, and preparedness.
Final Thoughts
Investing in first aid, CPR, and AED training is an investment in safety and preparedness. Whether you choose
CPR & AED classes, a Basic First Aid course, orIntermediate First Aid training, you gain practical life-saving skills that can make a critical difference when every second counts.