If you have recently searched for Emergency First Aid training in Ontario, you may have noticed a new course name appearing on training provider websites: Basic First Aid.
So what is Basic First Aid, and how does it differ from Emergency First Aid?
The answer is simple: there is no difference.
As part of the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board’s (WSIB) updated First Aid Program launching on June 22, 2026, Emergency First Aid will be renamed Basic First Aid.
Why Is Emergency First Aid Being Renamed?
The name change is part of Ontario’s adoption of the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) Z1210:24 standard for workplace first aid training.
The updated naming structure creates a clearer progression between training levels:
While the names are changing, the training itself remains largely the same.
What Does Basic First Aid Cover?
Basic First Aid focuses on life-threatening emergencies and prepares participants to provide immediate care until emergency medical services arrive.
Topics include:
- CPR and AED
- Choking emergencies
- Heart attack and stroke recognition
- Severe bleeding
- Anaphylaxis and asthma
- Shock and fainting
- Wound care and burns
- Emergency Medical Services (911)
- Recovery Position
To learn more about course content, certification options, and available training formats, visit our Emergency First Aid CPR/AED (Basic First Aid) course page.
Is Basic First Aid the Same as Emergency First Aid?
Yes.
Basic First Aid is simply the new name for Emergency First Aid.
The certification remains recognized by employers, schools, and organizations and continues to satisfy workplace first aid requirements where Emergency First Aid was previously required.
Who Typically Requires Basic First Aid?
Basic First Aid is commonly required for many workplace settings where a more comprehensive Intermediate First Aid certification is not required.
Under Ontario WSIB requirements, Basic First Aid is often appropriate for smaller workplaces and lower-risk work environments. Employers should always review their workplace requirements to determine the appropriate level of training.
How Long Is Basic First Aid Certification Valid?
Canadian Red Cross Basic First Aid certification is valid for 3 years.
All certifications include CPR Level C and Automated External Defibrillator (AED) training.
Is Basic First Aid WSIB Approved?
Yes.
Basic First Aid is the updated WSIB-recognized workplace first aid certification and is approved for applicable Ontario workplace requirements.
What Happens to Existing Emergency First Aid Certificates?
All valid Emergency First Aid certificates issued before June 22, 2026, remain valid until their expiry date.
There is no need to retake training simply because the course name has changed.
What Is the Difference Between Basic First Aid and Intermediate First Aid?
Basic First Aid focuses primarily on life-threatening emergencies.
Intermediate First Aid is a more comprehensive course that covers both life-threatening and non-life-threatening injuries and illnesses, including fractures, head and spinal injuries, diabetic emergencies, seizures, environmental emergencies, and many additional topics.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Emergency First Aid being discontinued?
No. Emergency First Aid is simply being renamed Basic First Aid.
Is Basic First Aid harder than Emergency First Aid?
No. The course content remains largely the same.
Will employers recognize Basic First Aid?
Yes. Employers will continue to recognize valid workplace first aid certifications.
How long is Basic First Aid valid?
Basic First Aid certification is valid for 3 years.
Do I need to replace my Emergency First Aid certificate?
No. Existing certificates remain valid until their expiry date.
Learn More
- Standard First Aid CPR/AED (Intermediate First Aid)
- Emergency First Aid CPR/AED (Basic First Aid)
- Workplace First Aid & CPR Training (WSIB Approved)
- WSIB First Aid Changes Coming June 22, 2026: What Ontario Workplaces Need to Know
- Canadian Red Cross First Aid Course Changes: What Students Need to Know