If you have recently searched for Standard First Aid training in Ontario, you may have noticed a new course name appearing on training provider websites: Intermediate First Aid.
So what is Intermediate First Aid, and how does it differ from Standard First Aid?
The short 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, Standard First Aid will be renamed Intermediate First Aid.
Why Is Standard 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 new naming structure creates a clearer progression between training levels:
While the names are changing, the training itself remains largely the same.
What Does Intermediate First Aid Cover?
Intermediate First Aid is a comprehensive first aid course that prepares participants to respond to both life-threatening and non-life-threatening emergencies.
Topics include:
- CPR and AED
- Choking emergencies
- Heart attack and stroke
- Severe bleeding
- Burns
- Fractures and sprains
- Head and spinal injuries
- Diabetic emergencies
- Seizures
- Environmental emergencies
- Poisoning
- And more
To learn more about course content, certification options, and available training formats, visit our Standard First Aid CPR/AED (Intermediate First Aid) course page.
Is Intermediate First Aid the Same as Standard First Aid?
Yes.
Intermediate First Aid is simply the new name for Standard First Aid.
The certification remains recognized by employers, schools, and organizations, and continues to satisfy workplace first aid requirements where Standard First Aid was previously required.
How Long Is Intermediate First Aid Certification Valid?
Canadian Red Cross Intermediate First Aid certification is valid for 3 years.
Is Intermediate First Aid WSIB Approved?
Yes.
Intermediate First Aid is the updated WSIB-recognized workplace first aid certification and is approved for applicable Ontario workplace requirements.
What Happens to Existing Standard First Aid Certificates?
All valid Standard 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Standard First Aid being discontinued?
No. Standard First Aid is simply being renamed Intermediate First Aid.
Is Intermediate First Aid harder than Standard First Aid?
No. The course content remains largely the same.
Will employers recognize Intermediate First Aid?
Yes. Employers will continue to recognize valid workplace first aid certifications.
How long is Intermediate First Aid valid?
Intermediate First Aid certification is valid for 3 years.
Do I need to replace my Standard 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)
- Standard First Aid CPR/AED (Intermediate First Aid) Recertification
- 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