First Aid Training in Ontario

Overview of First Aid Training in Ontario

First Aid Training in Ontario provides WSIB-approved certification programs that prepare individuals to respond effectively to workplace and medical emergencies such as injuries, choking, cardiac arrest, and sudden illness.

These training programs are designed for employees, supervisors, and organizations that require workplace safety compliance and life-saving emergency skills.

First aid certification in Ontario follows workplace safety standards set by the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB), the official authority for first aid requirements in Ontario.

WSIB is currently updating its First Aid Program to align with Canadian Standards Association (CSA Z1210:24), introducing updated course naming conventions for 2026.

We offer the First Aid Program in English only. To find a First Aid Program training provider that offers the full program in French, please visit the WSIB First Aid Program website.

Nous offrons le programme de premiers soins en anglais seulement. Pour trouver un fournisseur de formation du programme de premiers soins qui offre le programme complet en français, veuillez visiter le site Web du programme de premiers soins de la WSIB.

You can review official requirements here:
WSIB First Aid Requirements

For full certification pathways, explore our complete First Aid Training in Ontario program.

We also provide location-based training across major cities, including:
First Aid Training in Ottawa,
First Aid Training in Toronto,
and First Aid Training in Mississauga.

First Aid Training Courses in Ontario

• CPR AED Training – Basic life-saving resuscitation skills
• Basic First Aid – Formerly Emergency First Aid, most common workplace certification
• Intermediate First Aid – Formerly Standard First Aid, advanced certification with broader emergency care training

Each course is designed to meet different workplace and personal safety requirements in Ontario.

How Much Does First Aid Training Cost in Ontario?

The cost of First Aid Training in Ontario depends on the course level, provider, and duration.

For detailed pricing information, contact us at (416) 635-7800

• CPR AED Training – Typically the most affordable entry-level course
• Basic First Aid – Standard workplace certification (most common requirement)
• Intermediate First Aid – Advanced certification with extended training duration

What affects the cost?

• Course level (CPR vs Intermediate First Aid)
• In-person vs group workplace training
• Certification provider
• Recertification vs full course

Some employers may cover training costs as part of WSIB workplace compliance.

How Long Is First Aid Certification Valid in Canada?

Most First Aid and CPR certifications in Ontario are valid for 3 years. After this period, recertification is required to maintain workplace compliance.

This aligns with WSIB workplace safety requirements and Canadian training standards.

Can You Take First Aid Training Online in Ontario?

Some theoretical components may be completed online, but WSIB-approved First Aid certification in Ontario requires in-person, hands-on practical training.

Fully online certification is generally not accepted for workplace compliance.

Hybrid courses (online + in-person practical assessment) may be available depending on the provider, but the final evaluation must be completed in person.

How to Get First Aid Certification in Ontario

• Choose your First Aid course based on job or workplace requirement
• Register for training with a WSIB-approved provider
• Complete theory (online or classroom)
• Attend in-person practical training
• Pass skills evaluation and receive certification

Start your training here:

CPR AED Training
Basic First Aid (formerly Emergency First Aid)
Intermediate First Aid (formerly Standard First Aid)

Who Should Take First Aid Training?

• Workplace employees requiring WSIB certification
• Supervisors and safety officers
• Teachers, childcare providers, and coaches
• Healthcare support staff
• Individuals wanting emergency preparedness skills

Which First Aid Training Course Should You Choose?

• CPR AED – Basic emergency response skills (entry level)
• Basic First Aid – Updated name for Emergency First Aid, most common workplace requirement
• Intermediate First Aid – Updated name for Standard First Aid, advanced and comprehensive training

BLS vs Heartsaver

Basic Life Support (BLS) is typically designed for healthcare professionals and includes more advanced resuscitation techniques. Heartsaver CPR/AED is designed for general workplace or public training.

For most workplace certification requirements in Ontario, CPR AED or Basic First Aid is sufficient, while BLS is used in healthcare environments.

Training Delivery Options

• In-person training at certified centers
• On-site workplace training across Ontario

All training includes hands-on practice using real-life emergency scenarios.

Certification

Participants receive a recognized First Aid or CPR/AED certification depending on the course selected. Certification is typically valid for 3 years in Ontario.

Is First Aid Training Hard to Pass?

First Aid training is designed to be practical and beginner-friendly. Most participants pass successfully by attending training sessions and completing hands-on skill assessments.

Instructors provide step-by-step guidance, and there is no advanced medical background required.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is First Aid Training?
Training that prepares individuals to respond to medical emergencies such as injuries, choking, and cardiac arrest.

How long does First Aid Training take?
From a few hours (CPR AED) to 1–2 days (Intermediate First Aid).

Is First Aid Training mandatory in Ontario?
Yes, many workplaces require WSIB-approved certification.

How long is certification valid?
Usually 3 years before renewal is required.

Which course should I choose?
Basic First Aid is most common, Intermediate First Aid is advanced.

Is online First Aid certification valid in Canada?
Fully online certification is generally not accepted for workplace compliance. In-person practical training is required.

Can I learn First Aid for free?
Some basic awareness training may be available for free online, but WSIB-approved certification courses in Ontario are paid programs due to required practical training and evaluation.