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    Frequently asked questions

    What Is WorkSafeBC?

    WorkSafeBC (formally the Workers' Compensation Board of British Columbia) is the provincial government body responsible for workplace health and safety regulation and workers' compensation insurance in British Columbia. It operates under the Workers Compensation Act and enforces the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Regulation, which includes the mandatory first aid requirements for all BC workplaces. WorkSafeBC sets the standards for occupational first aid certification in BC, authorizes training agencies to deliver those programs, and oversees the certificate issuance system (WorkSafeBC Certification Services). When your employer requires a first aid attendant on site, they are complying with a WorkSafeBC legal obligation — not a voluntary best practice. Metro Safety is a WorkSafeBC-authorized training agency. All BFA, IFA, AFA, and Transportation Endorsement certificates issued through our programs are WorkSafeBC-compliant and entered into the WorkSafeBC Certification Services registry.

    WorkSafeBC First Aid Certification — How It Works

    WorkSafeBC does not deliver first aid training directly. Instead, it authorizes private training agencies (like Metro Safety) to run programs on its behalf. When you complete a course through a WorkSafeBC-authorized agency, your certificate is issued through WorkSafeBC Certification Services. **How the certificate process works:** - You complete your BFA, IFA, AFA, or Transportation Endorsement course through Metro Safety - Metro Safety submits your completion record and photo ID information to WorkSafeBC Certification Services - WorkSafeBC Certification Services issues your certificate and mails it to your home address on file - Your certificate is valid for 3 years from the date of completion - Your certificate appears in the WorkSafeBC registry, which employers can use to verify certification status The certificate is issued in your legal name exactly as it appears on the government-issued photo ID you presented on course day. Name changes or errors must be addressed through WorkSafeBC Certification Services directly.

    WorkSafeBC Certificate Replacement and Corrections

    If your WorkSafeBC first aid certificate is lost, damaged, or contains an error, contact WorkSafeBC Certification Services directly to request a replacement or correction. Metro Safety cannot reissue or amend a certificate after it has been submitted — all post-issuance changes go through WorkSafeBC. **WorkSafeBC Certification Services contact:** Visit worksafebc.com or call WorkSafeBC's main line to reach the certification services department. They handle replacements, corrections, address updates, and certificate verification requests. There is typically a fee for a replacement certificate. Processing times vary — contact WorkSafeBC directly for current timelines.

    WorkSafeBC vs Red Cross — What Is the Difference?

    This is one of the most common questions we receive. The short answer: **for BC workplace requirements, you need WorkSafeBC certification. Red Cross certifications do not satisfy the OHS Regulation.** Here is the key distinction: | | WorkSafeBC (BFA / IFA / AFA) | Canadian Red Cross | |---|---|---| | Issuing authority | WorkSafeBC (provincial regulator) | Canadian Red Cross (non-profit NGO) | | Required for | BC workplace OHS compliance | Personal, family, community, and some professional use | | Satisfies WorkSafeBC OHS Regulation | Yes — mandatory for BC employers | No — not recognized for occupational first aid compliance | | Certificate issued by | WorkSafeBC Certification Services | Canadian Red Cross | | Typical duration | BFA: 1 day · IFA: 2 days · AFA: 2 weeks | Emergency First Aid: 1 day · Standard First Aid: 2 days | | Valid for | 3 years | 3 years | | Focuses on | Occupational emergencies, workplace-specific protocols, WorkSafeBC regulatory framework | General first aid for civilians, community, family settings | If you are a BC employer or a designated workplace first aid attendant, you need a WorkSafeBC-compliant certificate — BFA, IFA, or AFA depending on your workplace class and hazard rating. A Red Cross Standard First Aid certificate does not meet this requirement.

    What Is the Canadian Red Cross?

    The Canadian Red Cross is part of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement — one of the largest humanitarian organizations in the world. In Canada, the Red Cross delivers civilian first aid and CPR training programs for individuals, families, community organizations, and some professional settings. Red Cross first aid courses are widely recognized and valued for personal preparedness and many non-occupational professional settings. Common programs include: - **Emergency First Aid + CPR/AED** — a 1-day course covering life-threatening emergencies, CPR, and AED use - **Standard First Aid + CPR/AED** — a 2-day comprehensive program covering the full range of first aid topics - **CPR/AED (various levels)** — standalone CPR training for healthcare providers, workplace responders, and the general public - **Babysitting and child safety courses** — for youth and young adult caregivers Red Cross certificates are commonly accepted by daycares, schools, community organizations, and many non-WorkSafeBC-regulated employers. However, they are not interchangeable with WorkSafeBC occupational first aid certification.

    When Is Red Cross Certification Enough?

    Red Cross (or equivalent civilian) certification is appropriate when you do not have a WorkSafeBC-mandated attendant requirement, or when you are getting trained for personal or community reasons. Common situations where Red Cross certification is sufficient: - **Personal and family preparedness** — learning first aid to respond to emergencies at home - **Childcare and school settings** — many daycare centres and schools accept Red Cross Standard First Aid for their non-workplace-regulated staff requirements - **Community and volunteer roles** — coaches, scout leaders, community centre workers, and volunteers - **Healthcare workers maintaining CPR skills** — nurses, PSWs, and care aides often maintain Red Cross CPR/AED certification between healthcare-specific certifications - **Non-WorkSafeBC employers** — federal government workplaces, airlines, banks, and other federally regulated workplaces may have their own first aid requirements that Red Cross satisfies If you are not sure whether your employer requires WorkSafeBC certification or whether Red Cross is acceptable, check your employment contract or ask your HR or safety manager. We can also help you figure it out — just tell us your workplace type and industry.

    Does Metro Safety Offer Red Cross Courses?

    Metro Safety is a WorkSafeBC-authorized training agency. Our core programs — BFA, IFA, AFA, and Transportation Endorsement — are WorkSafeBC-certified occupational first aid courses. For CPR and AED training that does not require WorkSafeBC occupational certification, we offer CPR/AED programs suitable for workplace responders, individuals, and groups. Contact us to ask about current CPR course availability and which certification standard applies to the program we offer. If you specifically need a Canadian Red Cross certificate (for example, your employer or childcare licensor requires the Red Cross logo on the certificate), contact the Canadian Red Cross directly to find an authorized Red Cross training provider near you. Red Cross training is delivered through their own network of authorized partners.

    Heart & Stroke Foundation — CPR Certification

    The Heart & Stroke Foundation is another major CPR certification body in Canada. Like the Red Cross, Heart & Stroke CPR certificates are widely recognized for civilian, community, and many professional settings. Heart & Stroke CPR/AED programs include: - **Heartsaver CPR AED** — for community members and workplace first responders - **Basic Life Support (BLS)** — for healthcare providers (nurses, paramedics, physicians) Heart & Stroke and Red Cross CPR standards are both aligned with the International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation (ILCOR) guidelines, which are the global evidence-based standards for CPR. WorkSafeBC occupational first aid programs also incorporate ILCOR-aligned CPR techniques. If your employer or professional licensing body specifies a particular CPR certification standard (Red Cross, Heart & Stroke, or WorkSafeBC), make sure you take the right one. When in doubt, ask us — we will help you sort it out.

    St. John Ambulance — First Aid Certification

    St. John Ambulance is another established first aid training organization in Canada and internationally. Like the Red Cross, St. John Ambulance delivers civilian first aid and CPR programs that are valued for personal preparedness and many community and professional settings. St. John Ambulance certificates are generally not accepted as equivalent to WorkSafeBC occupational first aid certification in BC. If you hold a St. John Ambulance certificate and are being asked to serve as a designated workplace first aid attendant under BC's OHS Regulation, you will need to complete BFA, IFA, or AFA through a WorkSafeBC-authorized agency like Metro Safety.

    Can I Use an Out-of-Province First Aid Certificate in BC?

    First aid certification requirements vary by province. WorkSafeBC requires that BC workplace first aid attendants hold a certificate issued through a WorkSafeBC-authorized training agency. Certificates from other provincial workers' compensation boards (Alberta WCB, Ontario WSIB, etc.) are generally not recognized as equivalent for BC workplace compliance. If you recently moved to BC and hold an out-of-province occupational first aid certificate, contact WorkSafeBC directly to confirm whether it satisfies your BC workplace requirement, or book a BFA or IFA course with us to get your BC-compliant certification.

    Summary — Which Certification Do I Need?

    | Your Situation | Certification You Need | |---|---| | BC workplace first aid attendant — any industry | WorkSafeBC BFA, IFA, or AFA (determined by Schedule 3-A) | | Remote BC worksite attendant | WorkSafeBC IFA or AFA + Transportation Endorsement | | Personal or family preparedness | Red Cross, Heart & Stroke, or St. John Ambulance | | Daycare or school employee | Red Cross Standard First Aid (confirm with your licensing body) | | Healthcare worker maintaining CPR | Heart & Stroke BLS or Red Cross CPR — check with your employer | | Community volunteer or coach | Red Cross Emergency or Standard First Aid | | Federal government employee in BC | Check your employer — may accept Red Cross or OFA | | Unsure | Tell us your workplace and we will help you figure it out |

    Certificate Validity at a Glance — All Courses

    Every first aid and CPR certificate issued through Metro Safety or the Canadian Red Cross has a fixed validity period. Here is a quick summary across all programs: | Certificate | Issued By | Valid For | Renewal Method | Satisfies WorkSafeBC? | |---|---|---|---|---| | Basic First Aid (BFA) | WorkSafeBC Certification Services | 3 years | Retake full BFA course | Yes | | Intermediate First Aid (IFA) | WorkSafeBC Certification Services | 3 years | Retake full IFA course | Yes | | Advanced First Aid (AFA) | WorkSafeBC Certification Services | 3 years | Retake full AFA course | Yes | | Transportation Endorsement (TE) | WorkSafeBC Certification Services | 3 years* | Retake full TE course | Yes (as add-on) | | OFA Level 1 (pre-Nov 2024) | WorkSafeBC Certification Services | Until natural expiry (max Nov 1, 2027) | Renew as BFA | Yes (until expiry) | | OFA Level 2 (pre-Nov 2024) | WorkSafeBC Certification Services | Until natural expiry (max Nov 1, 2027) | Renew as IFA | Yes (until expiry) | | OFA Level 3 (pre-Nov 2024) | WorkSafeBC Certification Services | Until natural expiry (max Nov 1, 2027) | Renew as AFA | Yes (until expiry) | | Red Cross CPR/AED | Canadian Red Cross | 3 years | Retake full CPR course | No | | Red Cross First Aid & CPR | Canadian Red Cross | 3 years | Retake full FA/CPR course | No | | Red Cross Child Care First Aid | Canadian Red Cross | 3 years | Retake full Child Care FA course | No | *Transportation Endorsement is only valid while the underlying BFA or IFA certificate remains active — it expires automatically when the underlying cert expires, even if 3 years have not passed.

    Certificate Name Changes and Corrections

    **WorkSafeBC certificates are issued in the legal name on your government-issued photo ID** provided on course day. Nicknames, preferred names, and shortened versions of your name are not accepted. If there is an error in your name or personal details on a WorkSafeBC certificate: - Contact WorkSafeBC Certification Services to request a correction - Provide documentation of the correct information (government ID, legal name change document if applicable) - A corrected certificate will be reissued — Metro Safety cannot make changes after submission **If your legal name has changed** (marriage, divorce, court order) after a certificate was issued, contact WorkSafeBC Certification Services with your name change documentation to request an updated certificate under your new legal name. **For Red Cross certificates:** Contact the Canadian Red Cross or the training partner who delivered your course for name corrections or updates.

    WorkSafeBC BFA Certificate — Validity and Renewal

    **Valid for:** 3 years from the date of course completion. The expiry date is printed on the certificate. It is exactly 3 years from the day you completed your Basic First Aid course — not 3 years from when you receive the physical certificate in the mail. **Renewal:** There is no challenge exam, shortened renewal course, or online-only renewal option. To renew your BFA, you must successfully complete the full one-day (7-hour) Basic First Aid course again and pass all 15 lifesaving skill evaluations and the written exam. **Early renewal:** You can take a renewal course before your certificate expires. However, your new 3-year validity period starts from the date of the renewal course, not from your old expiry date. Renewing 2 months early means you lose those 2 months — there is no stacking of validity periods. **What you receive:** A new WorkSafeBC-compliant Basic First Aid certificate issued by WorkSafeBC Certification Services, mailed to your home address.

    WorkSafeBC IFA Certificate — Validity and Renewal

    **Valid for:** 3 years from the date of course completion. **Renewal:** Must successfully retake the full 2-day (14-hour) Intermediate First Aid course. There is no partial renewal, bridge course, or challenge exam. You must be present for 100% of the course, pass all ongoing practical evaluations, and pass the written exam. **From BFA to IFA:** Completing IFA does not "cancel" a BFA — they are separate certifications. If you hold both and need to renew, renew the one your workplace actually requires. If your workplace requires IFA, renew IFA. Your BFA is a separate, independent certificate. **Early renewal:** Same rule as BFA — new 3-year period starts from the renewal course date, not the old expiry.

    Transportation Endorsement — Special Validity Conditions

    **Valid for:** 3 years from the date of course completion — BUT subject to a critical condition. **The linked validity rule:** The Transportation Endorsement is only valid while your underlying WorkSafeBC first aid certificate (BFA or IFA, or the equivalent OFA Level 1 or 2) remains current. If your BFA or IFA expires — even if 3 years have not passed since you took the TE — your Transportation Endorsement automatically becomes invalid along with it. **Example:** You complete the Transportation Endorsement in January 2024. Your underlying IFA expires in June 2025. Even though your TE would not expire until January 2027, it becomes invalid in June 2025 when your IFA lapses. **Renewal sequence:** Always renew your underlying BFA or IFA before or at the same time as your Transportation Endorsement. If you let your BFA/IFA lapse, you also lose your TE and must retake both. **Renewal method:** Must retake the full one-day (7-hour) Transportation Endorsement course. The TE is a separate course from BFA/IFA — renewing BFA or IFA does not automatically renew the TE.

    Lost or Damaged Certificates — Replacement Process

    If your WorkSafeBC first aid certificate is lost, damaged, stolen, or never received: **Contact WorkSafeBC Certification Services directly** — Metro Safety cannot reissue certificates after submission. All replacement requests are handled by WorkSafeBC. - Visit **worksafebc.com** or call WorkSafeBC to reach Certification Services - A fee applies for replacement certificates - You will need to verify your identity and course information - Processing times vary — allow several business days for a replacement to be issued and mailed **Tip:** While waiting for a physical replacement, WorkSafeBC may be able to confirm your certification status to your employer verbally or via the registry if a workplace inspection is pending. For Red Cross certificate replacements, contact the Canadian Red Cross directly through **myrc.redcross.ca** or the Red Cross national contact line.

    How long is a WorkSafeBC AFA certificate valid, and how do I renew it?

    A WorkSafeBC AFA certificate is **valid for 3 years** from the date you complete the course. To renew your certification, you must retake the full AFA program. This course is approximately 70 hours long (about 2 weeks). There is no shorter renewal option, bridge course, or portfolio-based renewal available; all skills must be demonstrated again. **Planning Your Renewal:** AFA renewal courses are not scheduled frequently. Since the course takes about two weeks, we recommend planning your renewal 3 to 6 months in advance. This helps ensure you avoid any lapse in your certification. Contact Metro Safety well before your certificate expires to confirm upcoming AFA course dates. **Early Renewal:** If you renew early, your new 3-year certification period starts from the date you complete the renewal course. There is no advantage to renewing more than 2 months before your current certificate expires.

    How to Renew a WorkSafeBC First Aid Certificate

    Renewing a WorkSafeBC certificate is the same process as taking it the first time — there is no shortened renewal course, bridge exam, or online option. **Steps to renew:** 1. Check your current certificate's expiry date. 2. Book a renewal course at Metro Safety at least 4 to 6 weeks before your expiry — especially for IFA and AFA which have fewer available dates. 3. Complete the full course (BFA: 1 day, IFA: 2 days, AFA: ~2 weeks). 4. Pass all practical skills evaluations and the written exam. 5. Metro Safety submits your completion to WorkSafeBC Certification Services. 6. Your new certificate is mailed to your home address on file. **The new 3-year validity period starts from the date of your renewal course**, not your old expiry date. Renewing before your expiry means your new certificate will be dated slightly earlier — there is no way to "transfer" unused validity. **Transportation Endorsement renewal** is a separate process — completing BFA or IFA renewal does not renew the TE. Book a TE renewal course separately if required.

    What happens if a first aid certificate expires?

    An expired certificate means you are no longer a qualified first aid attendant. There is no grace period for expired certificates; they are no longer valid the day after expiry. **For WorkSafeBC Occupational First Aid (OFA) certificates:** * Your employer will be in violation of WorkSafeBC OHS regulations. * WorkSafeBC may issue compliance orders. * Expired certificates can lead to fines or increased liability for the employer during inspections or incident investigations. * You cannot legally fulfill the first aid attendant role. To get re-certified, you must retake the full course (OFA Level 1, 2, or 3). An expired certificate does not prevent you from re-enrolling. **For Red Cross certificates:** * You no longer hold a currently recognized certification. * Many employers require you to retake the course before your certification lapses.

    Planning Renewal Timing — Avoiding a Gap

    The most common mistake is booking renewal too close to the expiry date and creating a gap if the course is fully booked or a participant does not pass on the first attempt. **Recommended lead times by course:** | Course | Recommended Lead Time | Why | |---|---|---| | BFA (1 day) | 4–6 weeks before expiry | Courses fill quickly; allows time for re-exam if needed | | IFA (2 days) | 6–8 weeks before expiry | Fewer available dates; allows time for re-exam | | AFA (~2 weeks) | 3–6 months before expiry | Infrequent cohorts; long course duration | | Transportation Endorsement (1 day) | Coordinate with BFA/IFA renewal | Must remain linked to a valid underlying cert | | Red Cross CPR/FA (1–2 days) | 4–6 weeks before expiry | Allows time for re-exam if needed | **The new certificate starts from the date of the renewal course.** If you renew 2 months early, you do not "keep" those 2 months — your new expiry will be 3 years from the renewal date, approximately 2 months earlier than if you had waited until closer to expiry. For most employers, the small loss of validity from early renewal is far preferable to the risk of a coverage gap or a failed first attempt requiring a re-exam.

    Verifying a Certificate — WorkSafeBC Registry

    WorkSafeBC maintains a registry of all occupational first aid certificates issued through authorized training agencies. Employers, WorkSafeBC inspectors, and individuals can verify certification status. **To verify a WorkSafeBC certificate:** - Visit **worksafebc.com** and use the certificate verification tool, or - Call WorkSafeBC Certification Services with the certificate holder's name and date of birth This is useful for employers onboarding a new hire, verifying a contractor's credentials, or confirming your own status before a job starts. **Note:** A physical certificate in hand is not sufficient proof on its own if a WorkSafeBC inspector suspects it may be expired or falsified. The registry is the authoritative source. Red Cross certificates are not tracked through WorkSafeBC — they are issued by the Canadian Red Cross's own certification system through **myrc.redcross.ca**.

    Certificates for Multiple Roles — Can One Certificate Cover Everything?

    A single WorkSafeBC certificate covers the certificate holder for the occupational role it qualifies them for. One person's BFA certificate does not cover their employer's other worksites or shifts. **Common questions:** **Can my BFA cover two different jobs?** Yes — your certificate is personal to you and is valid wherever you work as a designated first aid attendant, as long as BFA is the required level at that workplace. **Can one certificate cover multiple shifts?** No. Each shift needs its own designated attendant on site. A BFA attendant cannot be "on call" by phone for another shift. **Can I use my IFA certificate to fill a BFA role?** Yes. A higher-level certificate satisfies a lower-level requirement. An IFA or AFA attendant can serve in a BFA role. **Can I use my Red Cross FA/CPR for a WorkSafeBC BFA role?** No. Red Cross certificates do not satisfy WorkSafeBC occupational first aid requirements regardless of level. **Does completing AFA make my IFA certificate irrelevant?** Your IFA is a separate certificate and remains valid until its own expiry. However, an AFA certificate satisfies any requirement that would be met by IFA.

    Heart & Stroke Foundation — CPR Certification

    The Heart & Stroke Foundation is another major CPR certification body in Canada. Like the Red Cross, Heart & Stroke CPR certificates are widely recognized for civilian, community, and many professional settings. Heart & Stroke CPR/AED programs include: - **Heartsaver CPR AED** — for community members and workplace first responders - **Basic Life Support (BLS)** — for healthcare providers (nurses, paramedics, physicians) Heart & Stroke and Red Cross CPR standards are both aligned with the International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation (ILCOR) guidelines, which are the global evidence-based standards for CPR. WorkSafeBC occupational first aid programs also incorporate ILCOR-aligned CPR techniques. If your employer or professional licensing body specifies a particular CPR certification standard (Red Cross, Heart & Stroke, or WorkSafeBC), make sure you take the right one. When in doubt, ask us — we will help you sort it out.

    First Responder Certification Details

    - **Certificate name:** Canadian Red Cross First Responder Certificate - **Issued by:** Canadian Red Cross (digital certificate) - **Satisfies WorkSafeBC OHS Regulation for designated attendant roles?** No - **Nationally recognized?** Yes — the Red Cross First Responder credential is recognized across Canada in industrial, event, and community response contexts Confirm certificate validity period with Metro Safety at time of registration.

    Forklift Certification Details

    - **Certificate:** WorkSafeBC and CSA-approved Forklift Operator Certificate - **Valid for:** 3 years from the date of course completion - **Renewal:** Retake the full one-day course to renew — there is no shortened renewal pathway - **Issued by:** Metro Safety Training (WorkSafeBC authorized, CSA-aligned) - **Satisfies WorkSafeBC requirement for forklift operator competency?** Yes **Note:** A WorkSafeBC forklift certificate demonstrates general training. Employers are also responsible for site-specific orientation and may require additional familiarization training for their specific equipment before an operator works unsupervised. Your certificate establishes baseline competency; site-specific training remains the employer's responsibility.

    FoodSafe Level 1 Certification — 5-Year Validity

    **FoodSafe Level 1 certificates are valid for 5 years** — longer than most other Metro Safety course certificates. This is an important distinction to note: | Course | Cert Valid For | |---|---| | FoodSafe Level 1 | **5 years** | | BFA / IFA / AFA | 3 years | | Red Cross courses | 3 years | | BLS (CPR HCP) | 1 year | | CSTS | No expiry | To renew a FoodSafe certificate after 5 years, participants must retake the full one-day course and pass the exam again.

    CPR Level C Certification Details

    - **Certificate name:** Canadian Red Cross CPR/AED Level C - **Issued by:** Canadian Red Cross - **Valid for:** 3 years from the date of course completion - **Satisfies WorkSafeBC OHS Regulation?** No — CPR Level C alone does not qualify as a WorkSafeBC occupational first aid certificate - **Access your certificate:** myrc.redcross.ca

    EFA Certification Details

    - **Certificate name:** Canadian Red Cross Emergency First Aid + CPR/AED Level C - **Issued by:** Canadian Red Cross - **Valid for:** 3 years from the date of course completion - **Format:** Physical and/or digital certificate - **Satisfies WorkSafeBC OHS Regulation?** No — EFA does not qualify as a WorkSafeBC occupational first aid certificate To verify or access your Red Cross certificate after course completion, visit **myrc.redcross.ca**.

    Psychological First Aid Certification Details

    - **Certificate:** Canadian Red Cross-aligned Psychological First Aid certificate - **Valid for:** Confirm current validity period with Metro Safety at time of registration - **Widely recognized** across Canadian workplaces, healthcare settings, and emergency response organizations - **Satisfies WorkSafeBC OHS Regulation?** PFA is not an occupational first aid certificate — it is a workplace support and psychological hazard response skill set. BC's OHS Regulation amendments related to psychological safety (Bill 41, 2022) increase the relevance of PFA for employer health and safety programs, but PFA does not substitute for a physical first aid certificate.

    CSTS Certification — No Expiry Date

    **CSTS certificates do not expire.** This is one of the most distinctive features of the program. Most BC employers and general contractors accept a CSTS certificate indefinitely, as long as the worker has remained active in the construction industry. A CSTS from several years ago is generally still valid on BC job sites — verify with your specific employer or general contractor if there are any project-specific requirements. Compare this with: | Course | Expiry | |---|---| | CSTS | **No expiry** | | BFA / IFA / AFA | 3 years | | Fall Protection | 3 years | | Forklift | 3 years | | FoodSafe | 5 years | | BLS (CPR HCP) | 1 year |

    IFA Certification Details

    Upon successfully completing the course, you receive a WorkSafeBC-compliant Intermediate First Aid certificate. - **Valid for:** 3 years from the date of completion - **Renewal:** Must successfully retake the full IFA course — there is no challenge exam - **Certificate issued in:** Your legal name as it appears on your photo ID - **Certificate delivery:** Mailed to your home address on file with WorkSafeBC Your IFA certificate meets WorkSafeBC OHS Regulation requirements and is recognized province-wide in British Columbia.

    How Long Are First Aid Certificates Valid?

    All Metro Safety occupational first aid certificates are valid for 3 years from the date of course completion. There is no partial renewal or challenge exam option. To renew, you must successfully complete the full course again (BFA, IFA, or AFA, depending on your current certification). We recommend booking your renewal course before your certificate expires — employers are responsible for ensuring their designated first aid attendants hold a valid, current certificate at all times.

    CSO Certification and Designation Pathway

    **Certificate:** - Issued by: Safety Central, recognized by ASTTBC (Applied Science Technologists and Technicians of British Columbia) - Graduates of the 10-day program hold a Safety Central CSO certificate **ASTTBC CSO Designation:** After completing the course, graduates may apply to ASTTBC to obtain the provincial **Construction Safety Officer (CSO) designation**. This is a formal professional designation that employers in BC recognize as the standard credential for site safety officers on construction projects. The ASTTBC designation process involves: - Submitting the Safety Central course completion certificate to ASTTBC - Meeting any additional experience or documentation requirements as specified by ASTTBC - Paying the applicable designation application fee to ASTTBC Contact ASTTBC directly (asttbc.org) for current designation requirements and fees.

    Fall Protection Certification Details

    - **Certificate:** WorkSafeBC-compliant Fall Protection Certificate - **Issued by:** Metro Safety Training (WorkSafeBC authorized provider) - **Valid for:** 3 years from date of course completion - **Issued:** Same day as course completion - **Renewal:** Retake the full fall protection course — no shortened renewal option - **Satisfies WorkSafeBC Part 11 training requirement?** Yes

    Emergency Child Care First Aid Certification Details

    - **Certificate name:** Emergency Child Care First Aid + CPR/AED Level B - **Issued by:** Canadian Red Cross - **Valid for:** 3 years from the date of course completion - **Satisfies WorkSafeBC OHS Regulation for designated attendant roles?** No - **Accepted for BC childcare licensing?** Check with your specific licensing body — many accept this certificate; some require the full Child Care First Aid program - **Access your certificate:** myrc.redcross.ca

    EMR Certification Details

    - **EMR certificate:** Valid for 3 years; nationally recognized across Canada; aligned with NOCP - **BLS/CPR-HCP certificate:** Valid for 1 year (healthcare provider standard — must be renewed annually) - **Issued by:** Metro Safety Training / National standard through NOCP process - **Satisfies WorkSafeBC occupational attendant requirement?** No — EMR is a pre-hospital credential, not a WorkSafeBC occupational first aid designation - **Paramedic pathway:** EMR is the recognized entry-level pre-hospital credential required or strongly preferred for Primary Care Paramedic (PCP) program applications across most Canadian provinces

    Red Cross First Aid and CPR Certification

    Upon successfully completing the course, you receive a Red Cross First Aid and CPR certificate. - **Valid for:** 3 years from the date of course completion - **Issued by:** Canadian Red Cross - **Satisfies WorkSafeBC OHS Regulation:** No - **Accepted by:** Daycare licensing bodies, schools, most community organizations, many non-regulated employers, and professional bodies that specify Red Cross Standard First Aid To renew, retake the full course. Certification follows the current Canadian Red Cross program standards, which align with CSA guidelines for workplace first aid programs.

    TDG Certification Details

    - **Certificate name:** TDG Certificate of Completion - **Issued by:** Metro Safety Training (Transport Canada compliant) - **Valid for:** 3 years from the date of course completion - **Geographic recognition:** Accepted across all 13 Canadian provinces and territories - **Regulatory basis:** Transportation of Dangerous Goods Act (Canada); Transport Canada - **Satisfies WorkSafeBC OHS Regulation?** TDG is a separate federal obligation — it does not satisfy any WorkSafeBC-specific requirement, but both may be required for some workers

    Red Cross CPR Certification Details

    Upon successfully completing the Canadian Red Cross CPR course, you receive a Red Cross CPR/AED certificate issued by the Canadian Red Cross. - **Valid for:** 3 years from the date of course completion - **Issued by:** Canadian Red Cross (not WorkSafeBC) - **Satisfies WorkSafeBC OHS Regulation:** No — not recognized for BC occupational first aid compliance - **Accepted by:** Most community organizations, many non-regulated employers, daycare facilities, schools, sports associations, and health authorities that specify Red Cross certification To renew, you must retake the course. There is no online-only renewal path that includes the practical skills component.

    Is Blended Standard First Aid Equivalent to OFA Level 2?

    Metro Safety's website describes this course as recognized by WorkSafeBC as equivalent to OFA Level 2 (Intermediate First Aid / IFA). This claim requires careful interpretation. **What this means:** Red Cross Standard First Aid is recognized by WorkSafeBC for certain purposes — specifically, a Blended SFA certificate can count toward some compliance requirements in lower-risk contexts where an employer or joint health and safety committee has assessed that Standard First Aid meets their workplace's needs under the OHS Regulation. **What this does NOT mean:** - Blended Standard First Aid is **not** a direct replacement for a WorkSafeBC IFA (OFA Level 2) certificate for designated occupational first aid attendant roles at regulated BC workplaces. - The WorkSafeBC OHS Regulation requires designated workplace first aid attendants to hold WorkSafeBC-certified BFA, IFA, or AFA credentials issued by WorkSafeBC Certification Services — not Canadian Red Cross certificates. - A Red Cross Standard First Aid certificate, regardless of its level or format, **does not substitute for an IFA certificate** for an employer who is required to designate an occupational first aid attendant under Schedule 3-A of the OHS Regulation. **In summary:** If someone says your Red Cross SFA is "equivalent to OFA Level 2," clarify the context with your employer or WorkSafeBC before assuming it satisfies your workplace's specific compliance requirement. If you need confirmed IFA compliance, take IFA through Metro Safety.

    Blended Standard First Aid Certification Details

    - **Certificate name:** Canadian Red Cross Standard First Aid + CPR/AED Level C - **Issued by:** Canadian Red Cross - **Valid for:** 3 years from the date of course completion (in-person day) - **Satisfies WorkSafeBC OHS Regulation for designated attendant roles?** Generally no — see above for the important qualification - **Access your certificate:** myrc.redcross.ca

    Transportation Endorsement Certification Details

    Upon successfully completing the course, you receive a Transportation Endorsement certificate. - **Valid for:** 3 years from the date of completion - **Only valid while:** Your underlying BFA or IFA certificate remains current — if your first aid certificate expires, your TE is no longer valid - **Renewal:** Must successfully retake the full Transportation Endorsement course - **Note:** The Transportation Endorsement is not affected by the 2024 CSA Z1210-17 naming changes — OFA Level 1 or 2 certificates continue to serve as the valid underlying qualification until their expiry

    Do My Old OFA Certificates Still Count?

    Yes. WorkSafeBC updated the names of occupational first aid certifications effective November 1, 2024, moving from OFA Levels to the new BFA/IFA/AFA naming system. OFA certificates issued before November 1, 2024, remain valid as follows: | Old Certificate | Equivalent To | Valid Until | |---|---|---| | OFA Level 1 | Basic First Aid (BFA) | Natural expiry (max Nov 1, 2027) | | OFA Level 2 | Intermediate First Aid (IFA) | Natural expiry (max Nov 1, 2027) | | OFA Level 3 | Advanced First Aid (AFA) | Natural expiry (max Nov 1, 2027) | When you renew, you will be issued a new BFA, IFA, or AFA certificate under the updated naming.

    How long is a Red Cross Child Care First Aid certification valid for?

    A Canadian Red Cross Child Care First Aid certification is valid for 3 years from the date you complete your course. This certification is accepted by: * BC childcare licensing * Most daycare and school employers * Provincial licensing bodies that require Red Cross Child Care or similar child-focused first aid Please note: This certification does not meet WorkSafeBC OHS regulations.

    What Happens If My First Aid Certificate Expires?

    Under WorkSafeBC regulation, employers must ensure that their designated first aid attendant holds a current, valid certificate at all times during work hours. An expired certificate means the position is technically unstaffed, which is a regulatory violation. **Consequences of an expired certificate:** - WorkSafeBC can issue orders requiring immediate compliance - In a workplace inspection or incident investigation, an expired certificate may result in fines or orders against the employer - The employer remains liable for the absence of proper first aid coverage Certificates cannot be renewed early in a way that extends their validity — the new 3-year period starts from the date of the renewal course. Plan renewal 1–2 months before expiry to avoid a gap in coverage.

    Red Cross CPR, FA/CPR, and Child Care First Aid — Certificate Validity

    All Canadian Red Cross first aid and CPR certificates issued through Metro Safety or any Red Cross authorized provider are valid for 3 years from the date of course completion. | Red Cross Certificate | Valid For | Renewal | |---|---|---| | CPR/AED | 3 years | Retake full CPR course | | First Aid & CPR (Standard First Aid) | 3 years | Retake full FA/CPR course | | Child Care First Aid | 3 years | Retake full Child Care FA course | **There is no online-only renewal** for Red Cross certificates that include hands-on practical skills. The practical component must be completed in person. **Canadian Red Cross Emergency First Aid and Standard First Aid certificates are considered equivalent to Level 1 (now "Basic") Occupational First Aid under WorkSafeBC — provided the course was delivered in BC with WorkSafeBC's supplemental guidelines followed. Mediprofirstaid Under the November 2024 regulatory changes, workplaces previously required to have Level 2 (now "Intermediate") attendants can now have staff take the Red Cross Standard First Aid course to meet that requirement — a significant shift that makes Red Cross certs more applicable than before. Learnfirstaid So the original statement I was shown was overstated. Red Cross certificates can satisfy WorkSafeBC OHS Regulation requirements depending on the level required at the workplace. The important caveats are: The course must be delivered in BC with WorkSafeBC's supplemental requirements The certificate level must match what the workplace's first aid assessment requires Advanced (old OFA Level 3) workplaces still need that specific certification

    Are OFA Level 1, 2, and 3 certificates still valid?

    WorkSafeBC updated the names of occupational first aid certifications on November 1, 2024. The old OFA (Occupational First Aid) Level system was replaced with the new BFA/IFA/AFA naming system. **OFA certificates issued before November 1, 2024, are still valid.** They are recognized as equivalent to the new naming system: * OFA Level 1 is now equivalent to Basic First Aid (BFA). * OFA Level 2 is now equivalent to Intermediate First Aid (IFA). * OFA Level 3 is now equivalent to Advanced First Aid (AFA). These certificates are valid until their natural expiry date, but no later than November 1, 2027. Even if your OFA certificate's 3-year expiry extends past November 1, 2027, it will not be recognized for WorkSafeBC compliance after that date. When your OFA certificate expires, you will renew it under the new naming system (BFA, IFA, or AFA). The training content and value remain the same. **The Transportation Endorsement is not affected** by this naming change. OFA Level 1 and Level 2 certificates continue to be valid underlying qualifications for the Transportation Endorsement until their expiry date.

    What Is Advanced First Aid (AFA)?

    Advanced First Aid (AFA) is the highest level of WorkSafeBC-approved occupational first aid certification in British Columbia. It is a comprehensive 70-hour program that prepares attendants to manage serious and complex medical emergencies in high-hazard, remote, or isolated workplaces where ambulance response may not be readily available. AFA is the certification formerly known as OFA Level 3. If you hold an OFA Level 3 certificate issued before November 1, 2024, it is recognized as equivalent to AFA until its natural expiry date (up to November 1, 2027). Advanced first aid attendants are trained to provide care at a level significantly beyond basic or intermediate — including advanced airway management, oxygen therapy, spinal packaging, patient transport planning, and multi-casualty triage.

    Who Should Take AFA?

    AFA is required for first aid attendants in workplaces where WorkSafeBC Schedule 3-A specifies an Advanced first aid attendant. This typically includes: - High-hazard remote workplaces (mining, logging, large remote construction) - Workplaces where an Intermediate attendant is required but the site is also remote and/or less accessible - Large remote industrial operations with 100 or more workers - Any site where Schedule 3-A cross-references the Advanced level based on worker count, hazard rating, and remoteness If you are unsure whether you need BFA, IFA, or AFA, tell us your industry type, number of workers at the site, and whether you are more than 30 minutes from the nearest BCEHS ambulance station. We will help you identify the correct level.

    AFA Prerequisites

    There are no formal prerequisites listed for the Advanced First Aid course. However, because AFA is a 70-hour intensive program, candidates should be comfortable with foundational first aid concepts. Most AFA candidates have prior BFA or IFA training, though this is not a WorkSafeBC requirement. Candidates must be able to physically perform all required skills including CPR, patient packaging and immobilization, spinal management, and extended patient care. Government-issued photo ID is required at time of course.

    How Long Is the AFA Course?

    AFA is a 70-hour program, not including breaks. The final 14 hours of the program are the formal examination component. This is typically delivered over approximately 10 consecutive days (roughly two weeks). The course is intensive and requires full attendance — candidates must be present for 100% of the program. Contact us for current AFA scheduling as this course is offered less frequently than BFA or IFA. Private cohort scheduling is available for employers who need to train a group.

    What Does AFA Cover?

    Advanced First Aid covers the full scope of occupational emergency response, going significantly deeper than IFA. The curriculum includes: **Scene Assessment and Patient Evaluation** Priority Action Approach (PAA), risk management, detailed scene assessment, primary and secondary survey, Glasgow Coma Scale, ongoing assessment. **Airway and Breathing Management** Jaw thrust, oral airway insertion, suctioning, pocket mask, oxygen administration methods (nasal cannula, non-rebreather mask), bag-valve mask (BVM) ventilation, CPR/AED, airway obstruction (partial and complete, fluid and solid), respiratory distress and arrest. **Patient Packaging and Transport** Hard collar application, spine board packaging, scoop-style stretcher use, safe care during transport, fore and aft lifts. **Cardiac Emergencies** Circulatory system anatomy, angina, heart attack, cardiac arrest recognition and management. **Shock and Bleeding** Hypovolemic shock, anaphylaxis (life-threatening allergic reaction), tourniquet use, massive bleeding in a conscious patient, amputation management. **Medical Emergencies** Medication management, critical incident stress, diabetic emergencies, poison management. **Minor Injuries and Walk-In Care** First aid record completion, minor wound care, ankle spica wrap, minor sprains/fractures/dislocations, soft tissue disorders, minor ear/nose/eye injuries, burn assessment and treatment. **Major Injuries** Major musculoskeletal trauma (major sprains, dislocations, fractures), major ear/nose/eye injuries, major burns. **Environmental Emergencies** Heat and cold injury recognition, heatstroke, hypothermia, frostbite. **Head and Nervous System** Spinal injury identification and management, altered level of consciousness, seizure management, stroke. **Multiple Casualty Management** START triage system for mass casualty incidents. **Communication** Patient handoff communication, documentation, and emergency services coordination.

    AFA Exam and Evaluation

    AFA uses ongoing evaluation throughout the program. The final 14 hours are dedicated to formal examination. - **Practical evaluations:** Conducted throughout the course on all clinical skills - **Written examination:** Completed during the final examination block - Remediation and re-examination policies follow the same structure as BFA and IFA (same-day practical remediation at instructor discretion; written re-exam no sooner than 24 hours after the first attempt) - Candidates who do not complete the second exam attempt within 60 days must repeat the full course All competencies must be demonstrated to pass. This is a demanding program — candidates should prepare to study between sessions.

    AFA Certification Details

    Upon passing, you receive a WorkSafeBC-compliant Advanced First Aid certificate. - **Valid for:** 3 years from the date of completion - **Renewal:** Must successfully retake the full AFA course - **Certificate issued in:** Legal name as it appears on government-issued photo ID - **Certificate delivery:** Mailed to your home address on file with WorkSafeBC AFA is recognized province-wide in British Columbia and satisfies the highest WorkSafeBC first aid attendant certification requirement.

    Transportation Endorsement for AFA

    Remote workplaces that require an Advanced first aid attendant often also require a Transportation Endorsement. This is a separate 7-hour course covering safe patient transport for extended periods — by vehicle, boat, or helicopter. If Schedule 3-A specifies an Advanced attendant with (transport), the Transportation Endorsement is a separate certification requirement, not included in the AFA course itself. Metro Safety offers the Transportation Endorsement as a standalone course. Contact us if you need to confirm whether your site requires it.

    How Much Does AFA Cost?

    Please contact us directly for AFA pricing. Because AFA is a 70-hour program typically run as a cohort, pricing is structured differently from our one-day or two-day courses. Group and employer-sponsored pricing is available. We also offer private cohort scheduling for employers who need to train multiple staff members.

    Where and When Is AFA Offered?

    Metro Safety offers Advanced First Aid at select Metro Vancouver locations. AFA is not scheduled as frequently as BFA or IFA — contact us to ask about upcoming AFA cohort dates or to discuss scheduling a private group. If you require AFA for a remote worksite and need on-location delivery, contact us to discuss options.

    Which Level Do I Need — BFA, IFA, or AFA?

    WorkSafeBC Schedule 3-A determines the minimum first aid level based on four factors: 1. **Number of workers** at the worksite 2. **Hazard rating** of the industry (Low / Moderate / High) 3. **Remote?** — More than 30 minutes surface travel from the nearest BCEHS ambulance station 4. **Less accessible?** — Site cannot be safely accessed by BCEHS ambulance For most offices, retail stores, and light industrial workplaces: **BFA is sufficient.** For construction, warehousing, moderate-to-high hazard sites with 20+ workers: **IFA is usually required.** For remote, high-hazard, or large industrial sites: **AFA is required.** Just describe your workplace and we will help you find the right answer.

    About the AFA Pro Renewal Course

    The AFA Pro Renewal is a 4-day shortened renewal program for current holders of a WorkSafeBC Advanced First Aid (AFA) certificate or the equivalent OFA Level 3 certificate. It allows qualified AFA/OFA 3 holders to renew their certification in 4 days rather than completing the full 10-day AFA program. The Pro Renewal is a condensed, intensive program that builds on the skills and knowledge the participant has already demonstrated. It is not a beginner course — it assumes full AFA-level competency and focuses on refreshing and updating skills, with evaluations conducted at the same standard as the full AFA program. **Successful completion results in a new 3-year WorkSafeBC AFA certificate plus a Red Cross CPR Level A certificate (3 years).**

    Who Is AFA Pro Renewal For?

    AFA Pro Renewal is available to: - Holders of a **current** WorkSafeBC Advanced First Aid (AFA) certificate who are renewing before their certificate expires - Holders of a **recently expired** WorkSafeBC OFA Level 3 or AFA certificate (confirm with Metro Safety whether your expiry date still qualifies for Pro Renewal access — recently expired generally means within a short time after expiry) - Holders who want to avoid the 10-day full AFA course and meet the prerequisites for the shortened pathway **You must provide your current or recently expired AFA/OFA Level 3 certificate as proof of prerequisite.** You cannot take AFA Pro Renewal without having completed the full AFA program previously.

    AFA Pro Renewal vs Full AFA Course — What Is the Difference?

    | Feature | AFA Pro Renewal | Full AFA Course | |---|---|---| | Duration | 4 days (8:00 AM – 4:00 PM) | ~10 days (~70 hours) | | Home study | Mandatory pre-reading required | Included in class | | Prerequisite | Current/recently expired AFA | None (builds from IFA or equivalent) | | Content | Refresher and updates on full AFA curriculum | Full curriculum from foundational level | | New equipment covered | Pulse oximeters, tourniquets, updated protocols | Full equipment set | | Written exam | 100-question exam, 70% pass, Day 3 | Written exam on final days | | Practical evaluation | Summative scenarios, 70% pass, Day 4 | Ongoing and final evaluations | | Also earns | Red Cross CPR Level A (3 years) | N/A | | Price | $698.00 (all-inclusive: materials, pocket mask, cert) | Contact Metro Safety for pricing | | Result on passing | New 3-year AFA + CPR Level A | New 3-year AFA | **Two failures on renewal evaluations:** If a participant fails two evaluation attempts during the Pro Renewal, they are required to complete the full 10-day AFA course to obtain their renewal certificate. Participants should not underestimate the standard required — evaluation is at the same level as the full AFA program.

    Prerequisites for AFA Pro Renewal

    - **Mandatory:** A current or recently expired WorkSafeBC Advanced First Aid (AFA) or OFA Level 3 certificate - **Mandatory home study:** Pre-reading materials are distributed prior to the course and must be completed before Day 1. The course is fast-paced and assumes this background work is done — arriving without completing the home study will put you at a significant disadvantage - **Physical fitness:** The course is physically demanding. Participants are required to kneel, work in stooped positions, and manoeuvre patient manikins. Anyone with a physical limitation should contact Metro Safety before registering to discuss accommodations

    What AFA Pro Renewal Covers

    The 4-day Pro Renewal refreshes and updates all core AFA competencies, including: - **Patient assessment** — systematic primary and secondary survey, vital signs monitoring - **Airway management** — advanced airway techniques and adjuncts - **Oxygen therapy** — delivery systems, flow rates, patient monitoring - **Cardiovascular emergencies** — CPR, AED, 12-lead ECG interpretation awareness - **Hemorrhage control** — wound packing, tourniquet application (updated protocols) - **Chest injuries** — tension pneumothorax recognition, seal application - **Shock management** — recognition, positioning, fluid considerations - **Spinal motion restriction** — cervical collars, spine boards, proper log-roll technique - **Medical emergencies** — stroke, seizure, diabetic emergencies, anaphylaxis - **Environmental emergencies** — hypothermia, heat stroke, drowning, altitude considerations - **Obstetrical emergencies** — imminent delivery, complications - **Pediatric emergencies** — assessment and care adaptations - **New equipment protocols** — pulse oximeters (SpO₂ monitoring), updated tourniquet use - **Documentation and patient handoff** — EMS handoff, written reports - **Summative scenarios** — team-based multi-patient scenarios evaluated on Day 4

    AFA Pro Renewal — Exam and Evaluation Requirements

    **Written exam (Day 3):** - 100-question written examination - Minimum passing score: 70% - Covers all refreshed curriculum content; home study pre-reading is essential preparation **Summative practical evaluation (Day 4):** - Team-based scenarios with multiple injury/illness presentations - Minimum passing score: 70% - Evaluated on clinical decision-making, skill execution, patient communication, and team coordination **Failure policy:** One re-attempt is permitted on both the written exam and the practical evaluation. A second failure on either component requires completion of the **full 10-day AFA course** before the renewal certificate can be issued.

    What Is Basic First Aid (BFA)?

    Basic First Aid (BFA) is a WorkSafeBC-approved first aid certification designed for workers in low-to-moderate hazard workplaces. It is the entry-level occupational first aid certification in British Columbia and replaces what was formerly known as OFA Level 1. The course teaches you how to respond to workplace emergencies: conducting a scene assessment, performing a primary survey, managing bleeding, clearing airway obstructions, performing CPR, and using an AED. You will also learn how to assess and treat soft tissue injuries and make appropriate decisions about when to call for ambulance transport. If you previously held an OFA Level 1 certificate issued before November 1, 2024, it is recognized as equivalent to BFA until its natural expiry date (up to November 1, 2027).

    AFA Pro Renewal Pricing and Scheduling

    - **Price:** $698.00 — includes all course materials, pocket mask, and AFA renewal certificate fee - **Duration:** 4 consecutive days, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM each day, plus mandatory home study before Day 1 - **Format:** In-person, instructor-led - **Location:** 914 Sherwood Ave, Coquitlam, BC V3K 1A6 - **Prerequisites:** Current or recently expired WorkSafeBC AFA / OFA Level 3 certificate - **What to bring:** Proof of current/recent AFA certificate; completed home study pre-reading; comfortable clothing suitable for floor-based clinical skills and patient maneuvering; snacks and water **Scheduling note:** AFA Pro Renewal cohorts are offered periodically, not continuously. Contact Metro Safety well in advance of your certificate expiry to confirm the next available cohort: **604-521-4227** or **info@metrosafety.ca** **Cancellation policy:** Contact Metro Safety to confirm cancellation terms. Given the intensive scheduling and materials cost, cancellation policies for multi-day programs differ from single-day courses.

    BFA Prerequisites

    There are no prerequisites for Basic First Aid. The course is open to anyone who is able to understand and perform the practical first aid skills taught in the program. You do not need any prior first aid training or medical background. Participants must be able to physically perform skills such as CPR compressions and patient repositioning manoeuvres. If you have any physical limitations, contact us before registering so we can discuss accommodations. Age minimum: participants are typically required to be at least 16 years of age.

    Who Should Take BFA?

    BFA is required for anyone whose employer must have a designated first aid attendant on site under WorkSafeBC regulation. Common workplaces include: - Offices and retail stores (low hazard) - Light manufacturing and warehouses (moderate hazard) - Restaurants, hotels, and hospitality settings - Schools and childcare facilities - Construction sites with 2–9 workers (low hazard class) If you are unsure whether your workplace requires BFA, IFA, or AFA, we can help you figure out which level is right for you based on your industry, number of workers, and whether your site is remote. Just ask. BFA is also popular for individuals who want a recognized first aid credential even if it is not required by their employer.

    How Long Is the BFA Course?

    BFA is a one-day course consisting of 7 hours of instruction, excluding breaks. Classes typically run from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. The course covers both classroom instruction and hands-on practical skills. You will be evaluated on 15 lifesaving skills throughout the day and complete a written exam at the end.

    What Does BFA Cover?

    The Basic First Aid course is organized into four modules: **Module 1 — Priority Action Approach and Assessment** Scene assessment, responsiveness check, primary survey (Airway, Breathing, Circulation), secondary survey, transport decisions, wound assessment and care. **Module 2 — Respiratory and Cardiac Emergencies** Airway obstruction management, CPR (adult, single rescuer, 30:2 ratio), AED use, pocket mask ventilation, recognition of cardiac arrest. **Module 3 — Shock, Bleeding, and Medical Emergencies** Shock recognition and management, severe bleeding control, tourniquet application, stroke, diabetic emergencies, seizures, fainting, and burn treatment. **Module 4 — Practical Scenarios** Hands-on scenario practice integrating all skills learned. You will also complete a 25-question multiple-choice written exam (closed book).

    What Are the BFA Exam Requirements?

    The BFA course uses both practical and written evaluation: - **Practical skills:** You must demonstrate all 15 lifesaving skills to a passing standard. Each skill is pass/fail. - **Written exam:** 25 multiple-choice questions, closed book. Minimum passing score is typically 70%. - All 15 practical skills and the written exam must be passed to receive certification. If you do not pass a practical skill, the instructor may allow you to remediate on the same day. If you do not pass the written exam, you may attempt a second exam no sooner than 24 hours later. Candidates who do not attempt the second exam within 60 days must repeat the full course.

    What If I Need to Cancel or Reschedule BFA?

    Contact us as soon as possible if you need to cancel or change your registration. Our cancellation and rescheduling policy is listed on your registration confirmation. We recommend giving at least 48 hours notice where possible so we can offer your seat to another student. If you are registering on behalf of an employer for multiple staff members, please contact us directly to discuss group booking options and our policy for last-minute changes.

    BLS Certification — 1-Year Validity

    **This is the most important thing to know about BLS:** the certificate is valid for **one year only**, not three years like most other Red Cross courses. This shorter validity period reflects the expectation that healthcare professionals maintain current, practiced CPR skills. Many healthcare employers and regulatory colleges (CRNBC, CRPNBC, CPSBC, CDSBC, etc.) require annual BLS renewal as a condition of employment or licensure. **BLS recertification:** A 2-hour recertification course is available for BLS holders renewing before their certificate expires. If your certificate has lapsed, you must retake the full BLS course.

    BLS Pricing and Scheduling

    - **Price:** $69.95 (standard BLS); additional cost for optional add-on modules - **Duration:** 4 hours (BLS standalone); approximately 5 hours with one add-on; approximately 6 hours with both add-ons; 2 hours (recertification) - **Format:** In-person, instructor-led - **Location:** 914 Sherwood Ave, Coquitlam, BC V3K 1A6 (and additional Metro Safety locations) - **Prerequisites:** None formally required; course is designed for and most appropriate for healthcare providers and first responders - **What to bring:** Comfortable clothing for CPR practice; government-issued photo ID; stethoscope if required by your program **Recertification:** Book the 2-hour BLS recertification option if your current BLS certificate has not yet expired. Contact Metro Safety to confirm recertification availability: **604-521-4227** or **info@metrosafety.ca**

    What Do I Need to Bring to BFA?

    - **Government-issued photo ID** with your name, photo, and date of birth (required for certification) - Comfortable clothing you can move and kneel in — you will be on the floor for practical skills - Closed-toe shoes - Any personal protective equipment your employer requires - A water bottle and light snack for breaks The course provides all first aid equipment, mannequins, AED trainers, and materials.

    BFA Certification Details

    Upon successfully completing the course, you receive a WorkSafeBC-compliant Basic First Aid certificate issued through WorkSafeBC Certification Services. - **Valid for:** 3 years from the date of completion - **Renewal:** You must retake the full BFA course to renew — there is no challenge exam or shorter renewal path - **Certificate issued in:** Your legal name as it appears on your government-issued photo ID (nicknames are not accepted) - **Certificate delivery:** Mailed to your home address on file with WorkSafeBC Your certificate is recognized province-wide across British Columbia and meets WorkSafeBC OHS Regulation requirements.

    How Much Does BFA Cost?

    Please contact us or visit our course calendar for current pricing. Group rates are available for 5 or more participants from the same employer. We offer courses at our Vancouver, Burnaby, and Coquitlam locations. Pricing may vary slightly by location and date. Private on-site training for your team is also available — contact us for a quote.

    Where and When Are BFA Courses Held?

    Metro Safety offers Basic First Aid at three Metro Vancouver locations: - **Vancouver** - **Burnaby** - **Coquitlam** Classes run Monday through Saturday. Visit our course calendar to see available dates, times, and seats remaining. If you need a date that is not listed or want to book a private group session, contact us directly.

    BFA vs IFA — What Is the Difference?

    Both BFA and IFA are WorkSafeBC-approved occupational first aid certifications, but they differ in depth and duration: | | BFA (Basic First Aid) | IFA (Intermediate First Aid) | |---|---|---| | Duration | 1 day / 7 hours | 2 days / 14 hours | | Certificate | Valid 3 years | Valid 3 years | | Prerequisites | None | None | | Covers | Core emergency response, CPR/AED, bleeding, basic medical emergencies | Everything in BFA plus chest injuries, internal bleeding, amputations, environmental injuries, spinal injuries, major fractures | | Required for | Low-to-moderate hazard workplaces | Moderate-to-high hazard workplaces and remote sites | If your workplace is in a higher hazard industry (construction, forestry, manufacturing) or has more than 20 workers, you may need IFA or AFA. We can help you determine the right level — just describe your workplace and we will look it up.

    About the Basic Life Support (BLS) Course

    The Canadian Red Cross Basic Life Support (BLS) course — also called CPR for Healthcare Providers (CPR HCP) — is a specialized CPR and emergency response course designed for medical, dental, and allied health professionals, first responders, and others who may need to respond to cardiac and respiratory emergencies in clinical or professional settings. BLS is distinct from the standard Red Cross CPR Level C course in both content and certification validity. **BLS certificates are valid for 1 year — not the standard 3 years.** This is intentional for healthcare environments where skill currency is considered critical. **BLS is not a WorkSafeBC occupational first aid certificate** and does not satisfy BC OHS Regulation requirements for designated workplace first aid attendants.

    Who Should Take BLS

    BLS is specifically designed for: - Registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, and nurse practitioners - Medical and dental office staff - Paramedics and emergency medical responders (EMR) - Firefighters, police, and security personnel with first response duties - Lifeguards and aquatic safety professionals - Allied health students and graduates (physiotherapy, occupational therapy, etc.) - Healthcare support workers - Anyone whose employer or licensing body requires BLS-standard CPR certification If you are a **general workplace employee** or member of the public seeking CPR coverage, the **CPR Level C** course is the appropriate choice.

    BLS vs CPR Level C — What Is the Difference?

    | Feature | CPR Level C | BLS (CPR HCP) | |---|---|---| | Target audience | General public, workplace staff | Healthcare providers, first responders | | Adults covered? | Yes | Yes | | Children covered? | Yes | Yes | | Infants covered? | Yes | Yes | | 2-rescuer CPR depth | Introduction | Full team-based training | | Bag-valve-mask (BVM) | Not included | Optional add-on available | | Oxygen therapy | Not included | Optional add-on available | | Duration | 5–6 hours | 4 hours (standalone); up to 6 hours with add-ons | | Recertification | Retake full course | 2-hour recertification option | | Certificate validity | **3 years** | **1 year** | | Price | $59.95 | $69.95 |

    What BLS Covers

    The BLS course includes: - **Primary assessment** — systematic approach to assessing a collapsed or unresponsive person - **Adult CPR** — high-quality compressions (rate, depth, recoil), ventilation, cycle management - **Child CPR** — technique adaptations for pediatric patients - **Infant CPR** — 2-finger and 2-thumb encircling technique, ventilation - **AED operation** — full sequence: power on, analyze, deliver shock, continue CPR - **Airway obstruction management** — for conscious and unconscious adults, children, and infants - **Assisted ventilation** — proper technique with barrier devices - **BLS special considerations** — team dynamics, role clarity, do-not-resuscitate situations, infection control

    BLS Optional Add-On Modules

    Two optional modules can be added to the standard BLS course: **Airway Management (+1 hour)** - Bag-valve-mask (BVM) ventilation technique - Airway adjuncts (oral and nasal airways) - Managing complex airway scenarios **Oxygen Therapy (+1 hour)** - Safe oxygen delivery systems - Oxygen administration by mask, cannula, and non-rebreather mask - Appropriate flow rates and patient monitoring These add-ons are particularly relevant for nursing students, paramedic programs, and clinical settings where oxygen and airway equipment are routinely used.

    About Confined Space Safety Training

    Metro Safety offers two separate confined space training courses: one for **Entrants and Monitors** (workers who enter confined spaces or monitor entry operations), and one for **Standby Persons** (workers who remain outside the confined space and coordinate rescue). Both courses ensure that participants understand the hazards of confined spaces and can fulfil their specific role safely and in compliance with WorkSafeBC OHS Regulation. Each course includes both classroom theory and practical skills instruction. Participants learn using gas detectors and real-world confined space scenarios, including case studies from actual BC incidents.

    Confined Space — Entrant and Monitor Course

    **Price:** $158 per student **Duration:** 5 hours **Location:** 914 Sherwood Ave, Coquitlam, BC V3K 1A6 **Who it's for:** Workers who enter confined spaces (entrants) and workers assigned to monitor entry operations from inside or at the entry point. **Topics covered:** - **Regulatory compliance** — WorkSafeBC OHS Regulation confined space requirements; employer and worker duties - **Historical incident case studies** — real BC confined space fatalities and serious injuries; why these incidents happened - **Space classification** — Class A, B, and C; how to classify the space you will enter - **Atmospheric monitoring and testing** — what gases to test for (oxygen, flammable gases, hydrogen sulphide/H₂S, carbon monoxide/CO), acceptable ranges, when to abort - **Gas detector operation** — how to turn on, calibrate, bump test, and interpret readings from a multi-gas detector - **Ventilation** — forced-air ventilation before and during entry; continuous monitoring during work - **Personal protective equipment** — appropriate respiratory protection, harnesses, retrieval systems - **Hazard and risk assessment** — identifying all hazards before entry (atmospheric, physical, engulfment, energy) - **Entry permits** — what a confined space entry permit must include; completing and signing a permit before entry - **Lockout/tagout procedures** — isolating all energy sources before entry; verifying isolation is complete - **Rescue pre-plans** — knowing the rescue procedure before you enter; non-entry rescue as the priority

    Confined Space — Standby Person Course

    **Price:** $125 per student **Duration:** 4 hours **Location:** 914 Sherwood Ave, Coquitlam, BC V3K 1A6 **Who it's for:** Workers assigned as the standby person — the trained individual who remains outside the confined space, maintains communication with entrants, monitors atmospheric conditions at the entry point, and initiates rescue if needed. **Topics covered:** - **Standby person role and responsibilities** — what a standby person must do before, during, and after entry - **Entry permits** — verifying that the permit is complete and signed before allowing entry; understanding every element of the permit - **Lockout verification** — confirming all energy isolation is in place before giving the go-ahead to enter - **Gas detector operation** — bump testing, reading multi-gas detector results at the entry point; understanding alarm thresholds - **Ventilation verification** — confirming adequate ventilation is established and maintained - **Retractable lifeline (retrieval system)** — how to operate the tripod-mounted retrieval device to extract an incapacitated entrant without entering the space - **Communication** — maintaining continuous contact with entrants; communication failure protocols - **Rescue requirements** — when to call for rescue; non-entry rescue priorities; never entering a confined space to attempt self-rescue without proper equipment and training

    About the First Responder Training Course

    The Canadian Red Cross First Responder Training course is an intensive 5-day (approximately 40 hours) professional-level emergency response program offered by Metro Safety. It bridges the gap between Standard First Aid and Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) training, preparing participants to lead emergency response operations, manage multi-casualty scenes, and perform advanced first aid skills with a team. The course is designed for industrial Emergency Response Teams (ERT), fire and rescue personnel, security and event medics, ski patrol, remote worksite response teams, and others who need more than first aid skills — but are not pursuing formal paramedic-track credentials. **First Responder Training results in a Canadian Red Cross First Responder certificate.** **This is not a WorkSafeBC occupational first aid certificate** for designated attendant roles under the BC OHS Regulation. It is a professional responder credential that demonstrates advanced competency for team-based emergency response.

    Who Should Take First Responder Training

    First Responder Training is designed for: - Industrial Emergency Response Team (ERT) members - Firefighters (volunteer and paid) seeking formal responder certification - Security professionals in event, venue, or corporate settings - Ski patrol members - Remote worksite first aid responders - Search and rescue volunteers - Military and public safety personnel - Advanced first aid graduates seeking professional-level credentials short of the EMR program - Anyone aged 16 or older with Standard First Aid + CPR Level C background who wants professional responder skills **Recommended prerequisite:** Standard First Aid + CPR Level C (or equivalent recognized first aid training). Participants without this background may struggle with the pace of the course. Prior first aid experience is strongly recommended.

    First Responder vs EMR vs AFA — What Is the Difference?

    | Feature | First Responder | EMR Bridge Course | AFA (Advanced First Aid) | |---|---|---|---| | Duration | 5 days / ~40 hours | 40–60 hours | ~10 days / ~70 hours | | Prerequisite | SFA + CPR C recommended | AFA/OFA 3 required | IFA or equivalent | | Credential | Red Cross First Responder | NOCP-aligned EMR | WorkSafeBC AFA | | Nationally recognized? | Yes (Red Cross) | Yes (NOCP standard) | BC-specific (WorkSafeBC) | | WorkSafeBC occupational attendant? | No | No | Yes | | Scope | Advanced first aid, team response | Pre-hospital emergency care | Occupational first aid attendant | | Assisted medications | No | Yes (nitro, ASA, EpiPen, glucagon) | Some | | Oxygen therapy | Yes | Yes | Yes | | Paramedic pathway? | No | Yes | No | | Price | $699.99 + GST | $1,198 | Contact Metro Safety | **Choose First Responder** if you want a professional-level response credential for industrial, event, or community settings without pursuing the EMR/paramedic pathway. **Choose EMR Bridge** if you hold AFA/OFA 3 and want a nationally recognized pre-hospital credential with a pathway to paramedic programs. **Choose AFA** if you need a WorkSafeBC-compliant occupational first aid attendant designation for a BC workplace.

    Prerequisites for First Responder Training

    - **Recommended:** Standard First Aid + CPR Level C (or equivalent prior first aid training) - **Minimum age:** 16 years old - **Physical requirements:** Participants must be able to perform CPR, participate in scenario-based exercises, and manage simulated patients in various positions. Physical fitness is an asset.

    What First Responder Training Covers

    The 5-day curriculum builds progressively: **Day 1 — Foundations and CPR** - Scene leadership and incident command basics - Scene safety, hazard assessment - Primary survey and patient assessment framework - CPR for adults, children, and infants - AED operation, early defibrillation **Day 2 — Airway and Respiratory Emergencies** - Advanced airway management - Oxygen therapy — masks, cannulas, non-rebreather - Bag-valve-mask (BVM) assisted ventilation - Respiratory emergencies: asthma, anaphylaxis, COPD presentations - Airway obstruction management **Day 3 — Bleeding, Shock, and Trauma** - Hemorrhage control — direct pressure, wound packing, tourniquet application - Shock — recognition, types, management priorities - Trauma assessment — head-to-toe, mechanism of injury - Soft tissue injuries — wound care, impalement, evisceration - Chest injuries — recognition and care **Day 4 — Spine, Neurological, and Environmental** - Spinal motion restriction — c-collar application, log roll, spine board, standing takedown - Head injuries and neurological assessment - Stroke assessment (FAST) - Seizures and post-ictal care - Environmental emergencies — heat illness, hypothermia, frostbite - Pediatric and obstetrical emergencies **Day 5 — Team Scenarios and Final Evaluation** - Multi-casualty incident (MCI) triage — START triage principles - Team-based scenario exercises with multiple patients - Incident command system (ICS) roles in field response - Summative evaluations — practical skills and scenario performance - Equipment review and debrief

    FoodSafe Level 1 — Exam Requirements

    The FoodSafe Level 1 final exam is included in the one-day course: - Multiple choice format - Covers all course content - A passing score is required to receive the certificate - **One retest is permitted within 30 days** of the original exam if the participant does not pass on the first attempt - Participants who do not pass the retest must retake the full course before attempting again

    About FoodSafe Level 1 Certification

    FoodSafe Level 1 is a one-day food safety certification course that teaches food handlers how to prevent foodborne illness and maintain safe food practices in a commercial or institutional kitchen. The course covers all aspects of food safety from personal hygiene and food storage to cooking temperatures and cleaning procedures. The course includes a final exam. Upon passing, participants receive a FoodSafe Level 1 certificate that is recognized by BC's environmental health officers, WorkSafeBC, and most food service employers across the province. **FoodSafe Level 1 is mandatory for many food service positions in British Columbia.** It is a separate category of certification from first aid — it has nothing to do with emergency response or workplace first aid attendant requirements.

    Who Needs FoodSafe Certification in BC

    FoodSafe Level 1 is required for: - Food handlers in restaurants, cafeterias, hospitals, schools, and care facilities - Kitchen staff — cooks, prep workers, dishwashers - Anyone involved in preparing, handling, storing, or serving food commercially - Managers and supervisors in food service operations (often required to hold FoodSafe) - Caterers, bakery workers, and food production staff - Workers in BC food service who have not yet completed FoodSafe training BC's Food Safety Act and regulations require that food service establishments maintain food safety practices — FoodSafe certification is the standard training mechanism used across the province.

    What FoodSafe Level 1 Covers

    - **Preventing foodborne illness** — how pathogens (bacteria, viruses, parasites) cause food poisoning; the conditions that allow them to grow - **The temperature danger zone** — why food must be kept below 4°C (40°F) or above 60°C (140°F); how to use a thermometer - **Safe food storage** — proper refrigerator and freezer organization; FIFO (first in, first out); preventing cross-contamination - **Safe food cooking and serving** — minimum internal cooking temperatures for different protein types; hot holding temperatures - **Cross-contamination prevention** — raw vs cooked food separation; colour-coded cutting boards; safe food handling workflows - **Personal hygiene for food handlers** — proper handwashing technique, when to wash hands, illness exclusion policies - **Cleaning and sanitizing** — difference between cleaning and sanitizing; correct sanitizer concentrations; cleaning schedules for surfaces and equipment - **Pest control awareness** — signs of pest activity, prevention, reporting

    What Forklift Training Covers

    The course is structured in four phases: **Phase 1 — Regulations and Knowledge** - BC WorkSafeBC regulations governing forklift operation - WorkSafeBC OHS Regulation requirements for powered industrial trucks - CSA B335 standard for industrial lift truck safety - Employer and operator responsibilities **Phase 2 — Theory (Written Exam)** - Types of forklifts and their applications (counterbalanced, reach trucks, order pickers, pallet jacks) - Main forklift components and their function - Fuel systems and battery systems — care, hazards, safe handling - Load capacity, stability triangle, and load charts - Safety principles — speed limits, pedestrian awareness, blind spots, tip-over prevention - Pre-use inspection procedure — what to check before operating - Safe operating procedures — travelling, turning, ramps, loading/unloading - Parking and shutdown procedures **Phase 3 — Hands-On Training** - Supervised practical operation of a forklift - Applying pre-use inspection checklist - Operating within a designated area with real loads - Practising safe travel, turning, picking, placing, and stacking **Phase 4 — Practical Evaluation** - Individual skills assessment — participant operates the forklift through a course with site-specific obstacles - Evaluated on: inspection technique, operating safety, load handling, manoeuvring precision, shutdown procedure

    Forklift Training — Written and Practical Evaluation

    **Written exam (Phase 2):** - 10 questions (multiple choice and short answer) - Minimum passing score: 70% - Covers regulations, components, safety principles, load capacity, pre-use inspection, and operating procedures **Practical evaluation (Phase 4):** - Individual assessment on the forklift - Evaluated on all key operating competencies - Must demonstrate safe, controlled operation throughout the assessment course Participants who do not meet the passing standard will receive guidance on what to practise and may schedule a re-evaluation.

    IFA Exam and Evaluation

    IFA uses ongoing (continuous) evaluation throughout the course rather than a single exam at the end. - **Practical skills:** Evaluated throughout the two days on a pass/fail basis - **Written exam:** Completed at the end of the course - If you fail a practical skill, you may remediate on the same day at the instructor's discretion, after the written exam - If you fail the written exam, you may attempt a second exam no sooner than 24 hours after the first - Candidates who do not attempt the second exam within 60 days must repeat the full course Participants must demonstrate all required competencies to receive certification.

    The Look, Listen, Link Model

    The core practical framework in PFA is **Look, Listen, Link:** **Look** - Observe the situation for safety - Notice who may be in distress — behavioural signs (withdrawal, agitation, confusion, crying), physical signs (trembling, hyperventilation, blank stare) - Prioritize who needs support first **Listen** - Approach calmly and introduce yourself - Listen without judgment or interruption - Acknowledge what the person is feeling - Avoid minimizing their experience ("at least it wasn't worse") or offering premature reassurance ("you'll be fine") - Ask open-ended questions; let the person guide the conversation **Link** - Help connect the person with appropriate support: family, friends, professional services, employee assistance programs (EAP), community resources - Provide practical information — where to go, who to call, what is available - Follow up when appropriate

    What CSTS Covers — 15 Modules

    The standard CSTS program includes 15 interactive online modules: 1. **Introduction to Safety** — why safety matters; worker rights and responsibilities; WorkSafeBC overview 2. **Hazard Recognition** — identifying hazards on a job site; types of hazards 3. **Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)** — selection, fitting, inspection, and care of hard hats, safety vests, gloves, eye protection, safety footwear 4. **Fall Protection Awareness** — fall hazard types; overview of fall protection systems (not the full Fall Protection course) 5. **Confined Space Awareness** — what confined spaces are; basic hazard recognition (not entry training) 6. **Machine and Equipment Safety** — safe operation around heavy equipment; blind spots; equipment exclusion zones 7. **Electrical Safety** — electrical hazard recognition; lockout/tagout overview; safe work around power lines 8. **Material Handling and Lift Safety** — manual lifting technique; mechanical lifting equipment; load stability 9. **Scaffolding Safety** — scaffold types and safety principles; guardrails; access and egress 10. **Excavation and Trenching** — trench hazards; sloughing and cave-ins; protection systems 11. **Fire Safety** — fire prevention on construction sites; fire extinguisher types; evacuation 12. **Environmental Safety** — spills, waste disposal, hazardous materials awareness on job sites 13. **Emergency Response** — what to do in an emergency; muster points; calling for help; first aid access 14. **Reporting Procedures and Communication** — incident reporting; near-miss reporting; safety communication channels 15. **Worker Rights and Responsibilities** — right to refuse unsafe work; duty to report hazards; WorkSafeBC complaint process

    Who Should Take the EMR Bridge Course

    The EMR Bridge Course is for: - Holders of a **current or recently expired WorkSafeBC AFA or OFA Level 3 certificate** who want to upgrade to a nationally recognized pre-hospital credential - Industrial first aid attendants (AFA level) seeking career advancement into EMS or paramedicine - Firefighters, ski patrol members, and search and rescue responders with AFA/OFA 3 training - Healthcare support workers with AFA-level training who want NOCP-recognized credentials - Anyone pursuing entry to a Primary Care Paramedic (PCP) program — EMR is often a required step or a strong advantage in the application process **Prerequisite:** Valid or recently expired WorkSafeBC AFA (Advanced First Aid) or OFA Level 3 certificate is required. You cannot take the bridge course without this prior qualification. If your certificate has expired significantly, contact Metro Safety to confirm whether your credential still qualifies.

    The Five Core Elements of PFA

    The PFA framework is built on five evidence-based outcomes that support psychological recovery: 1. **Safety** — reduce immediate threats, help the person feel physically and emotionally secure 2. **Calm** — help reduce overwhelming emotional arousal through grounding, breathing, and a calm presence 3. **Connectedness** — help the person reconnect with support networks — family, friends, community 4. **Self-Efficacy** — restore the person's confidence in their ability to cope; acknowledge their strengths and what they are doing well 5. **Hope** — provide realistic, honest reassurance that recovery is possible; point toward resources and supports

    CSTS Optional Add-On Modules

    In addition to the 15 core modules, participants may complete specialized add-on modules for specific work types: - Ladder Safety - Lockout/Tagout (more detailed than the core module) - Respiratory Protection - Cranes and Rigging Safety Awareness - Other specialized modules may be available Ask Metro Safety about available add-ons when registering.

    Who Needs Fall Protection Training in BC

    In British Columbia, fall protection training is legally required for workers who may be exposed to a fall of **3 metres (10 feet) or more**. WorkSafeBC OHS Regulation Part 11 requires employers to ensure that any worker at risk of a fall from height is trained in fall protection and that a written fall protection plan is in place when required. Fall protection training is essential for: - Construction workers — framers, roofers, concrete formwork, steel erection - Scaffolders and scaffold users - Window washers and building exterior workers - Safety supervisors and site foremen responsible for fall protection plans - Workers using aerial work platforms (scissor lifts, boom lifts) - Workers on leading edges, near openings, or on rooftops - Anyone working at height of 3 metres or more who is not protected by a guardrail system Employers have a legal obligation to ensure workers have current fall protection training before they work at height.

    Courses We Offer

    Metro Safety offers the following WorkSafeBC-approved occupational first aid courses: | Course | Duration | Formerly Known As | |---|---|---| | Basic First Aid (BFA) | 1 day / 7 hours | OFA Level 1 | | Intermediate First Aid (IFA) | 2 days / 14 hours | OFA Level 2 | | Advanced First Aid (AFA) | ~2 weeks / 70 hours | OFA Level 3 | | Transportation Endorsement | 1 day / 7 hours | OFA Transport | We also offer CPR/AED training for individuals and groups who do not require full occupational first aid certification. All certificates are issued through WorkSafeBC Certification Services and are valid for 3 years.

    Who Should Take CSO Training

    CSO Training is designed for: - Workers who want to transition into a dedicated safety officer role on construction sites - Construction supervisors who need formal safety credentials to advance their career - Site managers seeking a recognized safety qualification for BC regulatory compliance - Safety professionals new to the BC construction industry - Career changers entering the health and safety field from a construction or trades background **No formal prerequisites are required**, though basic familiarity with a construction environment is recommended. Participants with no construction background are welcome but should expect a steeper learning curve during the practical skills sessions.

    Who Should Take Emergency Child Care First Aid

    This course is designed for: - Early childhood educators (ECE) in licensed daycare and preschool settings - Nannies, au pairs, and family daycare providers - Babysitters and part-time caregivers - Camp counsellors, after-school program staff, and youth workers - Foster parents, respite care providers - Parents and grandparents who want child-specific first aid training - Workers required by a childcare licensing body to hold a recognized child care first aid certificate — where the shorter emergency-level program is accepted **Check with your licensing body** before registering to confirm that Emergency Child Care First Aid Level B satisfies your specific certification requirement. Some licensing bodies require the **full Red Cross Child Care First Aid** course (which is longer and includes CPR Level C) rather than the emergency-level program.

    What the EMR Bridge Course Covers

    The bridge curriculum fills the gaps between AFA training and the full NOCP EMR scope of practice: **Patient Assessment** - Systematic EMR model of patient assessment - Scene size-up, mechanism of injury / nature of illness - Primary and secondary survey using SAMPLE history and OPQRST - Vital signs — pulse, respiration, skin, pupils, blood pressure - Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) - Decision-making: emergency vs non-emergency transport **Cardiac and Respiratory** - High-performance CPR techniques - Semi-automatic external defibrillation (SAED) — full AED protocol at EMR level - Oxygen therapy — nasal cannula, non-rebreather mask, partial rebreather - Assisted ventilation — bag-valve-mask (BVM), pocket mask **Assisted Medications** EMR scope of practice includes assisting patients with or administering: - Nitroglycerin (angina/cardiac chest pain) - ASA (Aspirin — suspected heart attack) - Epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen — anaphylaxis) - Glucagon / oral glucose (diabetic emergencies) - EMRs do not independently prescribe — they assist with patient-prescribed medications or follow medical oversight protocols **Diagnostics** - Blood glucose monitoring — glucometer operation, interpreting readings - SpO₂ monitoring — pulse oximetry **Neurological** - Stroke assessment — FAST and Cincinnati Prehospital Stroke Scale - Seizure management and post-ictal care - Head injury assessment and spinal motion restriction **Spinal Motion Restriction** - Cervical collar sizing and application - Long spine board — log roll, head hold, securing - Vacuum mattress use - Standing takedown technique - Selective spinal immobilization decision-making **Trauma** - Hemorrhage control — direct pressure, wound packing, tourniquet (C-A-T, SOFTT-W) - Chest injuries — open chest wound (seal application), tension pneumothorax recognition - Shock — types, recognition, management priorities - Burns — classification and field management - Blast injuries and crush syndrome awareness **Pediatric and Obstetrical Emergencies** - Pediatric assessment adaptations - Imminent delivery — field delivery procedure - Obstetrical complications — prolapsed cord, shoulder dystocia, postpartum hemorrhage **Multi-Casualty Incidents (MCI)** - START triage (Adults) and JumpSTART triage (Pediatrics) - ICS (Incident Command System) — EMR roles within the incident command structure - Scene coordination and communication with incoming EMS **Patient Handoff and Documentation** - Verbal handoff to advanced care paramedics - Patient care report writing - Air medical transport preparation

    Fall Protection Plans — WorkSafeBC Part 11

    A fall protection plan must be written before work begins when required under WorkSafeBC OHS Regulation. Participants learn the required elements: - Identification of the work area and fall hazards - The fall protection system selected and why - The location and type of anchor points - Rescue and retrieval procedures if a worker falls - Worker roles and responsibilities - Inspection and maintenance procedures Supervisors and safety officers responsible for writing fall protection plans benefit most from this section of the course.

    About the Forklift Operator Training Course

    Metro Safety's Forklift Operator Training is a one-day certification course that gives participants the knowledge and hands-on skills to safely operate a forklift, and earn a WorkSafeBC and CSA-approved forklift operator certificate. The course combines classroom theory with practical hands-on training and individual evaluation on an actual forklift. Participants complete a written exam and a practical skills assessment before receiving their certificate. **This is a full-day course (8:30 AM – 4:30 PM) held at Metro Safety's Coquitlam campus.**

    About the Construction Safety Officer (CSO) Training Program

    Metro Safety's Construction Safety Officer (CSO) Training is a 10-day intensive program that prepares participants for a career in construction site safety. The course covers WorkSafeBC regulations, hazard assessment, site safety planning, incident investigation, documentation, and the practical skills needed to lead safety operations on a BC construction site. Upon completion, participants receive a Safety Central / ASTTBC-recognized certificate and may apply for the provincial Construction Safety Officer (CSO) designation through the Applied Science Technologists and Technicians of British Columbia (ASTTBC). **CSO Training is offered at Safety Central's Burnaby location** (8321 Willard St, Burnaby, BC) — not at Metro Safety's Coquitlam campus.

    CSTS — Online, Self-Paced Format

    CSTS is a completely online program: - **No in-person component** — completed entirely on a computer, tablet, or phone - **Self-paced** — participants can stop and resume at any time; the platform saves your progress - **Estimated completion time:** 6 to 9 hours total (completed over one or more sessions) - **Access:** Participants register through Metro Safety and receive login credentials to the online platform - **Basic requirements:** A computer or device with internet access; basic computer literacy There is no written exam in the traditional sense — the modules include interactive knowledge checks throughout. Completion of all modules generates the CSTS certificate.

    About the Emergency Child Care First Aid Course

    The Emergency Child Care First Aid CPR/AED Level B course is a focused, one-day child-specific emergency first aid program offered by Metro Safety. It is designed for people who work with or care for children and need a recognized first aid certificate that emphasizes infant and child emergency response — in less time than the full Child Care First Aid course. The course covers the most critical emergency response skills for child care settings: infant and child CPR, choking response, anaphylaxis, asthma, febrile seizures, burns, and poisoning. **This course includes CPR/AED Level B** — which covers adults, children, and infants, but at a different scope than Level C. See the CPR Level B vs Level C article for details. **This course is not a WorkSafeBC occupational first aid certificate.** It does not satisfy BC OHS Regulation requirements for designated workplace first aid attendants.

    Who Needs Forklift Certification

    In BC, workers who operate powered industrial lift trucks (forklifts) must be competent operators — WorkSafeBC requires employers to ensure operators have the training and certification to safely operate this equipment. Forklift training is required for: - Warehouse workers who load, unload, or move materials with a forklift - Construction and industrial workers using forklifts on job sites - Distribution centre and logistics employees - Workers in manufacturing, retail storage, or wholesale operations - Supervisors overseeing forklift operations who want to understand safety requirements Both new operators who have never been certified and experienced operators whose certification has expired should complete (or re-complete) the full one-day course.

    What CSO Training Covers

    The 10-day program combines classroom instruction with practical scenario-based exercises. **Core Knowledge Modules:** - WorkSafeBC OHS Regulation — key sections relevant to construction sites - Employer and worker duties under BC's Workers Compensation Act - Construction site safety planning — how to develop and maintain a site safety plan - Hazard and risk assessment — identifying hazards, rating risk, selecting controls - Toolbox talks — how to plan and lead effective on-site safety meetings - Worker orientation — onboarding new workers to site-specific hazards - Incident investigation — root cause analysis, documentation, corrective actions - Documentation and reporting — safety logs, incident reports, inspection records **Practical Skills — What CSO Graduates Can Do:** - Write and review safe work permits - Develop lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures - Conduct hazard assessments using recognized frameworks - Write fall protection plans that comply with WorkSafeBC Part 11 - Prepare and review confined space entry procedures - Lead new-worker safety orientations - Conduct daily and weekly site safety inspections - Manage safety documentation for WorkSafeBC audits and inspections - Coordinate emergency response planning **Regulatory Application Topics:** - Fall protection plans and Part 11 requirements - Confined space classification and entry procedures - Excavation and shoring requirements - Scaffold and aerial work platform safety - Crane and rigging safety awareness - Lockout and hazardous energy control

    What Does IFA Cover?

    IFA builds from Basic First Aid skills and adds significantly more depth for higher-hazard situations. The course covers: **Core Assessment Skills (shared with BFA)** Priority Action Approach (PAA), scene assessment, primary survey, secondary survey, transport decisions, wound care, CPR and AED use. **Chest and Breathing Emergencies** Flail chest, penetrating chest injuries, open pneumothorax (sucking chest wound), closed pneumothorax, COPD management, fluid airway obstruction. **Circulatory Emergencies** Internal bleeding and hypovolemic shock, tourniquet application, amputation and amputated part management, two-person CPR with AED. **Environmental Injuries** Cold-related injuries (hypothermia, frostbite), heat-related injuries (heat exhaustion, heatstroke). **Burns** Types and degrees of burns, rule of nines for burn surface area, mechanism of injury, minor and major burn management, rapid transport criteria. **Musculoskeletal Injuries** Ankle sprains (spica wrap), minor and major fractures and dislocations, immobilization, ongoing management, managing poison exposure. **Minor Trauma — Ear, Nose, Eye** Minor ear and nose injuries, major eye injury assessment and treatment. **Medical Emergencies** Diabetic emergencies, seizures, stroke, critical incident stress.

    Who Should Take CSTS

    CSTS is designed for: - New construction workers entering the industry for the first time - General labourers who work across different construction job sites - Skilled trades workers who need a recognized BC safety orientation credential - Temporary and seasonal workers hired for construction projects - Site visitors, contractors, and subcontractors who require a safety orientation before accessing a job site - Workers transitioning from another industry into construction - Anyone required by an employer or general contractor to show proof of basic construction safety training **No construction experience is required.** CSTS is designed as an entry-point program — the baseline safety awareness training every construction worker needs before starting site-specific training.

    What Emergency First Aid Covers

    The EFA course covers the following topics: - **Scene assessment** — checking for safety, calling for help, determining what happened - **Check/Call/Care** — the Red Cross emergency response sequence - **Airway management and obstruction** — recognizing and responding to choking in adults, children, and infants - **CPR** — cardiopulmonary resuscitation for adults, children, and infants (CPR Level C) - **AED (Automated External Defibrillator)** — how to use an AED in cardiac arrest - **Head and spine injuries** — recognizing and providing care, minimizing movement - **Fractures and musculoskeletal injuries** — basic recognition and immobilization - **Wound care** — controlling bleeding, applying bandages - **Sudden medical emergencies** — heart attack, stroke, allergic reactions, seizures, diabetic emergencies - **Environmental emergencies** — heat-related illness, cold-related illness The course emphasizes the most critical life-saving skills — it does not cover the full depth of medical and trauma content taught in Standard First Aid.

    About the Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) Bridge Course

    The Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) Bridge Course at Metro Safety is an accelerated pathway to the EMR credential for holders of a current or recently expired WorkSafeBC Advanced First Aid (AFA) or OFA Level 3 certificate. Because AFA training covers significant overlapping content, qualified AFA/OFA 3 holders can complete the EMR certification in 40 to 60 hours rather than a full entry-level EMR program. EMR is a nationally recognized pre-hospital care credential aligned with the **NOCP (National Occupational Competency Profile for Emergency Medical Responders)**, the Canadian standard that defines the scope of practice for EMRs across all provinces. **Successful completion results in:** - A 3-year **EMR (Emergency Medical Responder) certificate** - A 1-year **BLS/CPR-HCP certificate** (Basic Life Support for Healthcare Providers)

    What Is Intermediate First Aid (IFA)?

    Intermediate First Aid (IFA) is a WorkSafeBC-approved occupational first aid certification for workers in moderate-to-high hazard workplaces. It is a 14-hour program that builds comprehensive lifesaving skills beyond the Basic level. IFA is the certification formerly known as OFA Level 2. If you hold an OFA Level 2 certificate issued before November 1, 2024, it is recognized as equivalent to IFA until its natural expiry date (up to November 1, 2027). IFA is required by WorkSafeBC in many BC industries including construction, light manufacturing, warehousing, and any workplace where the number of workers or hazard rating moves beyond what a Basic first aid attendant can legally cover.

    About the CPR Level C with AED Course

    The Canadian Red Cross CPR Level C with AED course is Metro Safety's most popular standalone CPR certification. It teaches cardiopulmonary resuscitation for adults, children, and infants, plus automated external defibrillator (AED) operation, and is delivered in a blended format (online theory + in-person skills). CPR Level C is the most comprehensive level of the Red Cross CPR series, covering all three patient populations. It is the CPR standard required for most workplace first aid roles, Standard First Aid programs, and healthcare support positions. **CPR Level C is not a WorkSafeBC occupational first aid certificate.** It does not satisfy BC OHS Regulation requirements for designated workplace first aid attendants.

    What Emergency Child Care First Aid Covers

    - **Emergency recognition and scene assessment** — using the Check/Call/Care framework in a child care setting - **Infant and child CPR** — 30 compressions / 2 breaths for children (1 year to puberty); 2-finger or encircling technique for infants (under 1 year) - **AED use** — applying pads and operating an AED, including pediatric pad considerations - **Choking — children (over 1 year)** — back blows, abdominal thrusts, chest thrusts; alternating between methods until the object is cleared - **Choking — infants (under 1 year)** — back blows and chest compressions (no abdominal thrusts for infants) - **Breathing emergencies — asthma** — recognizing an attack, helping a child use a reliever inhaler, when to call EMS - **Breathing emergencies — anaphylaxis** — recognizing symptoms, helping a child use an EpiPen, calling EMS even if symptoms improve - **Febrile seizures** — what they are, how to respond, always call EMS - **External bleeding in children** — direct pressure, bandaging, tourniquet use when direct pressure fails - **Burns and scalds** — cooling, covering, calling EMS for serious burns - **Fractures and falls** — basic recognition and care - **Poisoning** — steps to take, when to call Poison Control vs. EMS

    Who Should Take IFA?

    IFA is required for workers designated as first aid attendants in: - Moderate-to-high hazard workplaces with 20 or more workers - Remote workplaces where access to ambulance services takes more than 30 minutes - Construction, forestry, warehousing, and industrial settings where WorkSafeBC Schedule 3-A specifies an Intermediate attendant IFA is also the right step up for someone who already holds BFA and works in a setting with growing first aid responsibility, or who wants more thorough emergency training than the Basic level provides. If you are unsure whether you need BFA, IFA, or AFA, tell us about your workplace — number of workers, industry type, and whether you are in a remote or less accessible location — and we can advise you based on WorkSafeBC Schedule 3-A.

    Who Should Take CPR Level C

    CPR Level C is the right choice for: - Workplace employees who need a current CPR certificate to satisfy employer requirements - Volunteers and community members who want full CPR coverage for all ages - Parents, coaches, and youth workers who may respond to emergencies involving children or infants - Anyone taking Standard First Aid or Emergency First Aid who wants the CPR component separately - Workers preparing for healthcare, safety, or emergency response roles - Fitness instructors, personal trainers, camp staff, school employees If you work in a clinical or healthcare setting, the **BLS (Basic Life Support / CPR HCP)** course may be more appropriate — see the BLS article for details.

    About the Emergency First Aid (EFA) Course

    The Canadian Red Cross Emergency First Aid (EFA) course is a one-day first aid and CPR program designed to give participants the core skills to recognize and respond to life-threatening emergencies. It is Metro Safety's most accessible entry-level first aid course — shorter and faster than the full Standard First Aid program, with no prerequisites and a same-day completion. EFA is often chosen by individuals who want a recognized first aid certificate for personal readiness, workplaces where only emergency-level coverage is required, or anyone who needs CPR Level C coverage quickly and affordably. **This course includes CPR Level C (adults, children, and infants) and AED training.** **EFA is not a WorkSafeBC occupational first aid certification.** It does not satisfy BC OHS Regulation requirements for designated workplace first aid attendants (those roles require BFA, IFA, or AFA).

    EMR Bridge — Exam and Evaluation Requirements

    - **Attendance:** 100% attendance is mandatory — no missed sessions - **Written exam:** Minimum 75% pass mark on final written examination - **Practical evaluations:** Two evaluated scenario examinations — one primary and one secondary patient scenario - **Skills proficiency:** Ongoing assessment of all clinical skills throughout the course If you do not pass on the first attempt, contact Metro Safety to discuss options.

    CPR and AED Training

    Metro Safety offers CPR and AED training as a standalone program for individuals and groups who need emergency response skills but do not require full occupational first aid certification. CPR training is popular for: - Parents and caregivers - Daycare and childcare workers - Sports coaches and community volunteers - Healthcare workers maintaining skills between certifications - Anyone who wants to be prepared for a cardiac emergency at home or work CPR certification through Metro Safety follows Heart & Stroke Foundation guidelines. Contact us for current scheduling and group pricing.

    IFA Prerequisites

    There are no prerequisites for Intermediate First Aid. No prior first aid training is required. You do not need to hold a BFA certificate before taking IFA. Participants must be able to understand and physically perform the first aid skills required during the course, including CPR, patient repositioning, immobilization techniques, and practical scenario work. Government-issued photo ID is required on the day of the course.

    About the Psychological First Aid (PFA) Course

    Psychological First Aid (PFA) is an evidence-informed training program that teaches individuals how to recognize and respond to people experiencing emotional distress following traumatic or highly stressful events. It equips participants with practical, humane skills to provide immediate psychological support — without requiring clinical training, therapy credentials, or a mental health background. Metro Safety's PFA course is aligned with Canadian Red Cross principles. It emphasizes a non-clinical, supportive approach: the goal is not to treat or diagnose, but to help stabilize distressed individuals, connect them with appropriate resources, and promote their natural recovery. **This is not a mental health treatment program.** PFA does not train therapists, counsellors, or clinical responders. It is a first-response support skill for anyone who may encounter a person in psychological distress.

    Who Should Take Emergency First Aid

    Emergency First Aid is suitable for: - Employees in lower-hazard workplaces where the employer requires general first aid awareness but not a WorkSafeBC occupational first aid designation - Individuals who want a recognized first aid and CPR certificate for personal preparedness - Volunteers, community members, and caregivers - Anyone who wants CPR and AED training bundled with basic emergency first aid - Workers who need a quick, affordable Red Cross certificate but do not require WorkSafeBC BFA/IFA/AFA compliance If your workplace requires a **WorkSafeBC-compliant occupational first aid certificate**, you need BFA, IFA, or AFA — not EFA.

    How Long Is the IFA Course?

    IFA is a 14-hour program, not including breaks. This is typically delivered over 2 full days. Classes generally run 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM each day. The course uses continuous (ongoing) evaluation throughout both days rather than a single end-of-course exam. Participants must be present for and fully participate in 100% of the program.

    Who Should Take Psychological First Aid

    PFA is relevant for anyone who may encounter individuals under acute stress, and especially for: - Supervisors and managers who support staff following workplace incidents - Health and safety representatives and joint OHS committee members - Human resources professionals - First aid attendants who respond at the scene of traumatic events - Teachers and school staff - Frontline workers — emergency dispatchers, social services, community outreach - Healthcare support workers - Community responders — volunteers, peer support workers - Anyone in a role where they may be first on scene following a critical incident **No prior mental health training is required.** PFA is designed to be accessible to any caring, attentive person in a support role.

    What CPR Level C Covers

    - **Primary assessment** — scene safety, checking responsiveness, calling EMS - **Adult CPR** — 30 compressions / 2 breaths, depth and rate, hand position, full cycles - **Child CPR (ages 1 to puberty)** — technique variations, compression depth - **Infant CPR (under 1 year)** — 2-finger and 2-thumb encircling technique - **AED operation** — turning on, applying pads, following prompts, delivering a shock, continuing CPR - **2-rescuer CPR** — how to coordinate compressions and breaths with a second responder - **Airway obstruction (choking)** — recognition and response for adults, children, and infants - **H.A.IN.E.S. recovery position** — safe positioning for an unresponsive breathing person - **Heart attack recognition** — signs, symptoms, and immediate care steps - **Stroke recognition** — FAST (Face, Arms, Speech, Time) - **Angina** — difference from heart attack, nitroglycerin assistance

    About the Construction Safety Training System (CSTS)

    The Construction Safety Training System (CSTS) is a foundational online safety orientation program used throughout British Columbia to prepare workers entering the construction industry. It is the recognized standard for basic construction safety awareness training in BC and is nationally recognized across Canada. CSTS consists of 15 interactive online modules covering the core hazards and safety responsibilities of workers on construction job sites. The program is fully self-paced and completed online — there is no in-person component. **CSTS certificates do not expire.** This is unique among most safety training programs.

    About the Fall Protection Training Course

    Metro Safety's Fall Protection Training is a 6 to 8-hour certification course that teaches workers how to identify fall hazards, select and use fall protection equipment correctly, develop compliant fall protection plans, and work safely at heights in accordance with WorkSafeBC OHS Regulation Part 11. The course combines classroom instruction with real-world examples and scenarios. Participants leave with both the theoretical knowledge to assess fall hazards and the practical skills to inspect, fit, and use fall protection equipment on the job. **Participants receive a same-day WorkSafeBC-compliant fall protection certificate upon successful completion.**

    What Fall Protection Training Covers

    **Hierarchy of Fall Protection** WorkSafeBC requires employers to apply fall protection measures in this priority order: 1. Eliminate the fall hazard (engineering design) 2. Passive fall protection (guardrails, covers over openings) 3. Fall restraint systems (prevent a worker from reaching the fall edge) 4. Fall arrest systems (stop a fall in progress) 5. Control zones and safety monitors (limited applications) The course teaches when each level applies and how to select the appropriate system. **Developing Fall Protection Plans (WorkSafeBC Part 11)** A written fall protection plan is required when: - A fall of 7.5 metres (25 feet) or more is possible, or - The nature of the work makes it impractical to use guardrails or a travel restraint system The course teaches participants how to write a compliant fall protection plan that identifies the hazard, the protection method, rescue procedures, and worker responsibilities. **Fall Protection Equipment — Inspection and Use** Participants learn to inspect, fit, and use: - Full-body harnesses — proper fit, donning procedure, inspection points - Lanyards — energy-absorbing, self-retracting lifelines (SRL) - Anchor points — minimum strength requirements, types (structural, engineered) - Lifelines — horizontal and vertical lifelines, rope grabs, fall limiters - Carabiners — gate-lock types, load ratings - Shock absorbers — how they work, deployment indicators - Guardrails — height, strength, and top rail requirements **Swing Fall Hazards** A swing fall occurs when an anchor is not directly above the worker and a fall causes the worker to swing like a pendulum — often striking a wall or structure. This is one of the most commonly overlooked hazards in fall arrest systems. The course teaches how to identify and minimize swing fall risk. **Suspension Trauma** Suspension trauma (orthostatic shock) is a life-threatening condition that can occur within minutes when a person is suspended motionless in a harness after a fall arrest. The course covers: - Why suspension trauma occurs - Signs and symptoms - Self-rescue techniques where possible - Rescue planning to retrieve a suspended worker quickly **Equipment Storage and Recordkeeping** - Proper cleaning and storage of harnesses and lanyards to prevent degradation - Inspection records — what to document and how often - When to remove equipment from service (damage, deployment of shock absorber, age limits)

    About the Red Cross First Aid and CPR Course

    The Canadian Red Cross First Aid and CPR (FA/CPR) course is a comprehensive first aid program that goes significantly beyond CPR-only training. It teaches you to respond to a wide range of emergencies including breathing emergencies, severe wounds, burns, head and spine injuries, bone and joint injuries, sudden medical emergencies, environmental illness, and poisoning — in addition to the full CPR/AED curriculum. This course is commonly accepted as Standard First Aid in Canada and is appropriate for workplaces, community organizations, and individuals who want a complete first aid skillset. **This course is not a WorkSafeBC occupational first aid certification.** BC employers whose regulations require WorkSafeBC compliance need BFA, IFA, or AFA. The Red Cross FA/CPR course is the right choice for personal preparedness, community or volunteer roles, daycares, schools, and employers in sectors that accept Red Cross certification (federal workplaces, some healthcare, community programs).

    Who Should Take Red Cross First Aid and CPR

    This course is designed for: - Adults who want a comprehensive first aid skillset for home and community use - Coaches, childcare workers, teachers, and community volunteers - Healthcare support workers (PSWs, home care aides) maintaining first aid credentials - Workplaces in federally regulated industries that accept Red Cross Standard First Aid - Anyone whose employer or professional body specifies Red Cross FA/CPR or Standard First Aid No prior training required. The course covers all ages — adults, children, and babies.

    Who Should Take Blended Standard First Aid

    Blended Standard First Aid is ideal for: - Adults who prefer to do background reading and theory at their own pace before the hands-on day - Busy professionals who want to maximize the efficiency of their in-person day - Workplace groups booking multiple staff through a single course day - Anyone who finds online pre-learning helps them retain practical skills better - Workers who have been told they need "Standard First Aid" — this course satisfies that requirement If you specifically need a **WorkSafeBC occupational first aid certificate** (for a designated first aid attendant role), see BFA, IFA, or AFA — Standard First Aid does not satisfy BC OHS Regulation occupational attendant requirements.

    Who Should Take the Red Cross CPR Course

    The Red Cross CPR course is designed for: - Individuals who want to be prepared for cardiac emergencies at home - Parents and caregivers - Coaches, teachers, and community volunteers - Workplace staff in settings that do not require WorkSafeBC occupational first aid - Healthcare support workers maintaining basic CPR skills - Anyone required by their employer or organization to hold a Red Cross CPR certificate No prior first aid training or medical background is required. The course is suitable for adults 16 and older.

    Online vs In-Person Components

    **Online component (done at home before the course):** - Complete at your own pace — typically 2 to 4 hours of reading and short knowledge checks - Covers: terminology, anatomy basics, incident scene management framework, medical emergency recognition - Must be completed **before** attending the in-person day - Metro Safety will provide login access to the online component upon registration **In-person component (full day at Metro Safety):** - 7 to 8 hours of hands-on skills practice and evaluation - CPR on adult, child, and infant manikins - AED operation - Choking response (adults, children, infants) - Wound care and bandaging - Fractures and musculoskeletal injuries - Head, neck, and spine injury response - Medical emergencies: heart attack, stroke, seizure, diabetic emergencies, anaphylaxis, asthma - Recovery position Participants must attend and complete **100% of the in-person day** to receive certification.

    What Blended Standard First Aid Covers

    The curriculum is the same as the full Red Cross Standard First Aid course: - Scene safety and the Check/Call/Care framework - Primary and secondary patient assessment - Airway management - CPR for adults, children, and infants (Level C) - AED use - Choking response for all ages - Life-threatening and minor bleeding control - Wound care and dressing application - Burns (thermal, chemical, electrical) - Head, neck, and spine injuries - Bone, muscle, and joint injuries (fractures, dislocations, sprains) — RICE method - Heart attack and stroke - Seizures and diabetic emergencies - Anaphylaxis and epinephrine auto-injector assistance - Asthma and inhaler assistance - Environmental emergencies (heat exhaustion, heat stroke, hypothermia, frostbite) - Poisoning - Recovery position

    What Is the Transportation Endorsement?

    The Transportation Endorsement (TE) is a WorkSafeBC-required add-on certification for occupational first aid attendants who work at remote worksites. It teaches first aid attendants how to safely package and transport injured workers to medical treatment when ambulance access is delayed or unavailable. If your workplace is remote — meaning it is more than 30 minutes surface travel from the nearest BCEHS ambulance station — WorkSafeBC Schedule 3-A may require your first aid attendant to hold both an IFA or AFA certificate and a Transportation Endorsement. When Schedule 3-A lists "(transport)" next to a certification level, the Transportation Endorsement is required. The TE is a standalone 7-hour course. It does not replace your BFA, IFA, or AFA — it is held in addition to it.

    Who Needs the Transportation Endorsement?

    The Transportation Endorsement is required when Schedule 3-A specifies it for your workplace. This generally applies to: - **Remote Class 2, 3, and 4 worksites** — sites more than 30 minutes from the nearest ambulance station - **Forestry, mining, remote construction, and resource industry** workers designated as first aid attendants - Any site where the WorkSafeBC Schedule 3-A table shows "(transport)" next to the required first aid attendant level If you work at a standard office, retail, warehouse, or urban construction site, you typically do not need the Transportation Endorsement — it is specifically for remote and less accessible sites. Not sure if your site qualifies? Tell us your industry, location, and number of workers and we can look it up for you.

    About the Red Cross Child Care First Aid Course

    The Canadian Red Cross Child Care First Aid course is a specialized first aid program designed specifically for people who work with or care for children. It covers the full range of first aid and CPR skills taught in the standard FA/CPR course, adapted and applied to child and infant scenarios, with additional modules covering childhood illnesses, febrile seizures, shaken baby syndrome, when to call EMS vs. a parent, medication administration in child care settings, and toy and equipment safety. The course emphasizes first aid response for children from birth through age 12, with particular attention to infants under 1 year. **This course is not a WorkSafeBC occupational first aid certification.** It does not satisfy BC OHS Regulation requirements for designated workplace first aid attendants. It is designed for child care professionals, educators, parents, and anyone who regularly cares for children.

    Transportation Endorsement Prerequisites

    To enroll in the Transportation Endorsement course, you must hold a valid: - Basic First Aid (BFA) certificate, **or** - Intermediate First Aid (IFA) certificate, **or** - Equivalent prior OFA Level 1 or Level 2 certificate Your first aid certificate must be current (not expired) when you complete the Transportation Endorsement course. The TE is only valid while your underlying BFA or IFA certificate remains active — if your BFA/IFA expires, your Transportation Endorsement is no longer valid.

    Who Should Take Child Care First Aid

    This course is specifically designed for: - Licensed daycare workers and early childhood educators (ECE) - Nannies, au pairs, and family daycare providers - Teachers and school support staff working with young children - Camp counsellors and youth program workers - Foster parents and respite care providers - Parents and grandparents who want child-focused first aid training - Anyone required by their daycare licensing body to hold a recognized child care first aid certificate In British Columbia, many provincial licensing requirements for child care facilities specify a recognized first aid certificate. Child Care First Aid is commonly accepted for this purpose. Confirm with your licensing body which certifications are acceptable in your specific setting.

    What TDG Training Covers — 7 Modules

    The course is organized into 7 modules with a knowledge test at the end of each: | Module | Topic | Approx. Time | |---|---|---| | 1 | Introduction to TDG — the TDG Act, who it applies to, key definitions | 20 minutes | | 2 | Classification of Dangerous Goods — 9 hazard classes, divisions, packing groups | 25 minutes | | 3 | Documentation — shipping documents, what information is required, consignor/consignee responsibilities | 20 minutes | | 4 | Safety Marks — labels, placards, UN numbers, ERG (Emergency Response Guide) | 25 minutes | | 5 | Means of Containment — packaging requirements, compatibility, UN-specification containers | 20 minutes | | 6 | Special Cases for Road Transport — exemptions, limited quantities, excepted quantities, Class 1 explosives | 20 minutes | | 7 | Emergency Response — what to do in a TDG incident, CANUTEC, ERG use, spill response | 20 minutes | **Total estimated time:** Approximately 2.5 hours (self-paced; actual time varies by learner)

    Transportation Endorsement Evaluation

    The Transportation Endorsement uses ongoing (continuous) evaluation throughout the day. Each module is assessed as the course progresses. - Participants must demonstrate all required skills independently, without assistance from the instructor or classmates, by the end of the course - There is no separate written exam for the Transportation Endorsement - All skills must be demonstrated to receive certification

    About the Blended Standard First Aid Course

    Metro Safety's Blended Standard First Aid with CPR/AED Level C is a flexible delivery format of the Canadian Red Cross Standard First Aid program. It combines online self-paced theory (completed at home before the course) with a full-day in-person practical skills session. The course content is identical to the in-person Standard First Aid — only the delivery format differs. Participants complete the background knowledge, definitions, and foundational concepts online, then attend a full in-person day to practise and be evaluated on hands-on skills including CPR, wound care, fracture management, choking response, and medical emergency care. **This course results in the same Canadian Red Cross Standard First Aid + CPR/AED Level C certificate as the traditional in-person format.**

    About the Red Cross CPR Course

    The Canadian Red Cross CPR course teaches you how to respond to cardiac and breathing emergencies using the Check, Call, Care framework. It covers CPR for adults, children, and babies, AED use, choking response, and recognition of heart attack, stroke, and life-threatening bleeding. The CPR course is a standalone half-day program ideal for people who want essential emergency response skills without the full Standard First Aid curriculum. It is widely accepted by employers, community organizations, and individuals who want to be prepared for cardiac emergencies at home or work. **This course is not the same as a WorkSafeBC occupational first aid certification.** If you need a WorkSafeBC-compliant certificate for a BC workplace requirement, you need BFA, IFA, or AFA. The Red Cross CPR course is appropriate for personal preparedness, community roles, and employers whose regulations accept Red Cross certification.

    About TDG Training

    The Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG) training course is a 2.5-hour online certification program that teaches workers how to safely identify, classify, document, label, and transport hazardous materials in compliance with Canadian federal law. TDG training is delivered entirely online and is self-paced. Upon completing all 7 modules and assessments, participants receive a TDG Certificate of Completion that is valid for 3 years and accepted across all 13 Canadian provinces and territories. **TDG is regulated by Transport Canada under the Transportation of Dangerous Goods Act — it is a federal regulation, not a WorkSafeBC provincial regulation.** It is the only Metro Safety course regulated at the federal level.

    How Long Is the Transportation Endorsement Course?

    The Transportation Endorsement is a one-day, 7-hour course (excluding breaks). The course runs from approximately 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM and includes two 15-minute coffee breaks and a 30-minute lunch. This is a physically demanding course. Knee pads and closed-toe footwear are strongly recommended. Participants must be present for and fully participate in 100% of the program.

    Who Needs TDG Certification

    TDG training is required for anyone who: - Ships, transports, imports, or exports dangerous goods as part of their work - Handles, offers for transport, or receives dangerous goods shipments - Prepares or reviews shipping documents for hazardous materials Typical roles requiring TDG certification: - Warehouse workers who ship or receive hazardous materials - Truck drivers transporting dangerous goods on Canadian roads - Freight and logistics coordinators - Shipping and receiving supervisors - Lab personnel handling chemical shipments - Manufacturing workers who ship finished hazardous products - Retail distribution workers handling restricted materials Under Canada's TDG Act, employers are responsible for ensuring that any worker who handles or transports dangerous goods has current TDG training. Operating without TDG certification when required is a federal offence subject to fines.

    What Does the Transportation Endorsement Cover?

    The course focuses on packaging and transporting injured workers safely when ambulance access is not immediate. Topics include: **Pre-Planning and Principles of Transport** Knowing your equipment, training co-workers in transportation roles, pre-planning emergency transport vehicle (ETV) routes, mapping BCEHS meeting points, and communication with the next level of care. **Priority Action Approach Review** Scene assessment, primary survey, and transport decision — reviewed in context of remote site scenarios. **Packaging — Conscious Patient with Spinal Motion Restriction (SMR)** How to package a conscious trauma patient who requires spinal immobilization before transport. **Packaging — Conscious Patient Without SMR** Packaging a conscious patient who does not have spinal concerns but requires safe transport. **Packaging — Unconscious Patient** How to safely position and package an unconscious patient for transport, including the ¾-prone position. **Care During Transport** Monitoring vital signs and providing first aid interventions while the patient is being moved to definitive care. **Handoff and Communication** How to effectively transfer care to the next level — OFA Level 3/AFA attendant, industrial paramedic, BCEHS crew, or hospital staff. **Review Scenarios** Practical scenario practice integrating all packaging and transport skills.

    Welcome

    Congratulations on registering for the **Metro Safety Training Fall Protection Course**. This Pre-Study Guide has been prepared to help you arrive on course day confident, prepared, and ready to engage with the material. Please read through this guide before your scheduled training date. Familiarity with the key concepts below will help you get the most out of the classroom session, pass the written exam, and — most importantly — keep yourself and your crew safe on the job. > **Course Format:** Full-day classroom instruction with practical equipment evaluation. > **Exam:** 20-question written assessment. A minimum score of **80% (16/20)** is required to pass. > **Certification:** Valid for 3 years upon successful completion. ---

    Why This Training Matters

    Falls from elevation are one of the leading causes of serious injury and death in the construction and maintenance industries in British Columbia. WorkSafeBC data consistently shows that falls account for a significant proportion of all workplace fatalities — and the majority of those falls were preventable. The law is clear. Under **WorkSafeBC OHS Regulation Part 11**, every employer, supervisor, and worker has a legal duty to understand and apply fall protection. This course ensures you meet that obligation. ---

    Key Terms to Know Before You Arrive

    Familiarize yourself with the following definitions. These terms will be used throughout the course and will appear on the exam. | Term | Definition | |---|---| | **Fall Hazard** | Any condition where a worker could fall and be injured — including unprotected edges, floor openings, and unstable surfaces. | | **Fall Restraint System** | A system that **prevents** a worker from reaching a fall hazard in the first place (e.g., a short lanyard tied to an anchor that stops you before the edge). | | **Fall Arrest System** | A system that **stops a fall in progress** after it has begun. Requires an anchor, full-body harness, and connecting means (lanyard/lifeline). | | **Anchor Point** | A secure attachment point for a fall protection system. Permanent anchors must withstand a minimum of **22 kN (5,000 lbs)**. | | **Full-Body Harness** | The only legally acceptable body support device for fall arrest in BC. Safety belts are **prohibited** for fall arrest. | | **Lanyard** | The connecting line between a harness and an anchor. Shock-absorbing lanyards reduce peak arrest forces but require additional clearance distance. | | **Clearance Distance** | The total vertical space needed below a worker to ensure they do not strike the ground or a lower level if a fall occurs. | | **Swing Fall (Pendulum Effect)** | The dangerous arc a worker travels when they fall while positioned horizontally away from their anchor point. | | **Suspension Trauma** | A potentially fatal condition (also called orthostatic intolerance) caused by blood pooling in the legs when a person hangs motionless in a harness. Can become life-threatening in as little as 10–30 minutes. | | **Fall Protection Work Plan** | A written, site-specific document required by law when working at **7.5 m (25 ft)** or more, or when using a safety monitor or work procedures. | | **Safety Monitor** | A trained, dedicated worker whose sole duty is to observe the crew and warn of fall hazards. They may not perform any other work tasks simultaneously. | ---

    The Seven Course Modules — A Preview

    The course is structured into seven modules. Here is a brief overview of what each covers so you can begin thinking about the concepts. ### Module 1 — Introduction to Fall Protection The legal trigger point for fall protection in BC is **3 metres (10 feet)**. However, protection is also required at any height if a fall could cause injury greater than landing on a flat surface (e.g., falling onto rebar, machinery, or into water). Employers, supervisors, and workers each carry specific legal duties. ### Module 2 — The Fall Protection Hierarchy Always attempt to control fall hazards in this order — most effective first: 1. **Eliminate** the hazard (redesign the task so no one works at height) 2. **Passive Guardrails** (permanent or temporary barriers — no worker action required) 3. **Fall Restraint** (prevent reaching the edge) 4. **Fall Arrest** (stop a fall after it starts) 5. **Work Procedures / Safety Monitor** (last resort only, when all else is impracticable) ### Module 3 — Fall Restraint Systems Restraint systems include travel restriction lanyards, work positioning belts (e.g., pole belts), and warning line systems. A warning line must be placed a minimum of **2 metres from any unprotected edge**. ### Module 4 — Fall Arrest Systems The three essential components — the **"ABCs"** — are: - **A** — Anchorage (the anchor point) - **B** — Body Support (full-body harness) - **C** — Connecting Means (lanyard or lifeline) You must calculate your total clearance distance before using a fall arrest system. This includes: free-fall distance + lanyard/shock absorber deployment + harness stretch + safety margin. ### Module 5 — Equipment Inspection and Maintenance All fall protection equipment must be inspected by a qualified person **before every workshift**. Look for cuts, abrasions, chemical damage, broken stitching, and corroded hardware. Any equipment that has **arrested a fall must be immediately removed from service** and cannot be returned until recertified by the manufacturer or a professional engineer. ### Module 6 — Specialized Environments and Procedures Roofs with a slope of **8 in 12 (vertical to horizontal) or steeper** require **both** a fall protection system and a safe footing system (e.g., roof jacks/toeholds). The Safety Monitor System is a last resort — the monitor must be experienced, trained, and have no other duties. ### Module 7 — Rescue Planning and Emergency Response Calling 911 is not a rescue plan. A site-specific rescue procedure must be in place **before work begins**. Your plan must answer: Who rescues? What equipment is needed? How does the suspended worker signal for help? How will first aid be administered? ---

    Pre-Study Review Questions

    Test your understanding before arriving. These questions reflect the style and content of the course exam. Answers are provided at the bottom of this guide. 1. At what height does WorkSafeBC generally require fall protection? 2. What is the correct order of the Fall Protection Hierarchy? 3. What is the key difference between fall restraint and fall arrest? 4. What type of body support is legally required for fall arrest in BC? 5. What is the minimum load capacity for a permanent fall arrest anchor? 6. How often must fall protection equipment be formally inspected? 7. What must happen to equipment that has arrested a fall? 8. What is the "swing fall" or "pendulum effect"? 9. What two systems are required when working on a roof with a slope of 8 in 12 or greater? 10. What is suspension trauma, and why is it dangerous? ---

    What to Bring on Course Day

    - Government-issued photo ID - Your registration confirmation email - A pen or pencil - Any personal fall protection equipment you currently use on the job (optional — bring it for inspection practice) - Questions! There are no bad questions when it comes to safety. ---

    Pre-Study Review Answers

    1. **3 metres (10 feet)** — or at any height where a fall could cause greater injury than landing on a flat surface. 2. **Eliminate → Guardrails → Fall Restraint → Fall Arrest → Work Procedures/Safety Monitor.** 3. Fall restraint **prevents** a worker from reaching the fall hazard. Fall arrest **stops a fall** after it has already begun. 4. A **full-body harness**. Safety belts are prohibited for fall arrest. 5. **22 kN (5,000 lbs).** 6. **Before every workshift**, by a qualified person. 7. It must be **immediately removed from service** and not returned until recertified by the manufacturer or a professional engineer. 8. The dangerous arc (pendulum) a worker travels when they fall while positioned horizontally away from their anchor point, causing them to swing into walls, columns, or other structures. 9. Both a **fall protection system** (tied off) and a **safe footing system** (roof jacks or toeholds). 10. Suspension trauma (orthostatic intolerance) occurs when blood pools in the legs of a person hanging motionless in a harness, depriving the brain of oxygen. It can become **fatal in as little as 10–30 minutes** if the worker is not rescued promptly. ---

    Useful Resources

    The following WorkSafeBC resources are freely available online and are excellent preparation material: - **WorkSafeBC OHS Regulation Part 11 — Fall Protection:** [worksafebc.com](https://www.worksafebc.com/en/law-policy/occupational-health-safety/searchable-ohs-regulation/ohs-regulation/part-11-fall-protection) - **Fall Protection WebBook (Interactive Guide):** [worksafebcmedia.com](https://www.worksafebcmedia.com/media/WebBooks/FallProtection/) - **Falls from Elevation — Hazard Information:** [worksafebc.com](https://www.worksafebc.com/en/health-safety/hazards-exposures/falls-from-elevation) --- *Metro Safety Training | Fall Protection Course* *Content aligned with WorkSafeBC Occupational Health and Safety Regulation Part 11* *Questions? Contact your Metro Safety Training coordinator.*

    Who Needs Confined Space Training

    Confined space training is required for any worker whose work involves entering, monitoring, or standing by at a confined space. This includes: - Welders and boilermakers working inside tanks, vessels, and pipelines - Pipefitters and plumbers in utility vaults, manholes, and culverts - Shipbuilders and marine maintenance workers - Industrial maintenance workers cleaning or inspecting tanks, bins, silos, or hoppers - Construction workers in trenches, excavations, or underground structures - Safety officers and construction safety officers overseeing confined space entry - Rescue technicians and site medics assigned to confined space operations **Under WorkSafeBC OHS Regulation, employers must classify confined spaces, assess hazards, develop written confined space entry procedures, and ensure all workers have role-specific training before entry begins.**

    What Is a Confined Space?

    A confined space is an enclosed or partially enclosed area that: - Is large enough for a worker to enter and perform work - Has limited or restricted means of entry or exit - Is not designed for continuous human occupancy Confined spaces include: storage tanks, silos, vaults, hoppers, ship holds, boilers, tunnels, pipes, sewers, manholes, trenches deeper than 1.2 metres, and similar enclosed work areas. Confined spaces are classified by hazard level: - **Class A (Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health / IDLH):** Atmospherically hazardous, engulfment risk, or physical configuration preventing rescue - **Class B (Potentially hazardous — not immediately IDLH):** Hazards present but controlled; injury may occur - **Class C (No significant hazard):** No special precautions required beyond normal safety protocols The course teaches how to classify a space based on its characteristics and apply the appropriate level of control.

    Entrant vs Standby Person — What Is the Difference?

    | Role | Enters the space? | Primary responsibility | Course | |---|---|---|---| | Entrant | Yes | Performs work; monitors own exposure; communicates with standby; exits on alarm | Entrant/Monitor — $158 / 5 hours | | Monitor | May be near entry point | Observes entry, tracks entrants, maintains awareness of conditions | Entrant/Monitor — $158 / 5 hours | | Standby Person | No (must not enter) | Remains outside; maintains communication; operates retrieval system; calls rescue | Standby Person — $125 / 4 hours | **A standby person who has not been trained must never enter the confined space to rescue an incapacitated entrant.** Non-entry rescue using the retrieval system is always the first option. Untrained entry into a hazardous confined space is the most common cause of multi-fatality confined space incidents.

    About Metro Safety

    Metro Safety is a WorkSafeBC-authorized first aid and safety training provider based in the Greater Vancouver area of British Columbia, Canada. We have been delivering first aid and CPR training since 2008 — over 15 years serving individuals, families, and employers across Metro Vancouver. We offer courses at three locations: Vancouver, Burnaby, and Coquitlam. Our instructors are experienced, WorkSafeBC-certified, and committed to practical, high-quality training that prepares you for real emergencies — not just passing a test. Whether you are an individual looking to be prepared for a family emergency, a business owner who needs to meet WorkSafeBC requirements, or an HR manager booking training for your team, we are here to help.

    What Do I Need to Bring to IFA?

    - **Government-issued photo ID** with name, photo, and date of birth (required for certification — must be presented on day of course) - Comfortable clothing you can move, kneel, and get on the floor in - Closed-toe shoes - Personal protective equipment (gloves and eye protection are used throughout the course — some instructors provide these, confirm when you register) - Water bottle and snacks for breaks All first aid equipment, mannequins, AED trainers, and course materials are provided by Metro Safety.

    EMR vs First Responder vs AFA — What Is the Difference?

    | Feature | EMR | First Responder | AFA | |---|---|---|---| | Standard | NOCP (national) | Canadian Red Cross | WorkSafeBC (provincial) | | Duration (bridge) | 40–60 hours | N/A | ~10 days / ~70 hours | | Prerequisite | AFA/OFA 3 | SFA + CPR C recommended | IFA or equivalent | | Assisted medications | Yes — nitro, ASA, EpiPen, glucagon | No | Some | | Blood glucose monitoring | Yes | No | No | | Oxygen therapy | Yes | Yes | Yes | | Paramedic pathway | Yes — directly | No | No | | WorkSafeBC occupational attendant | No | No | Yes | | Nationally recognized | Yes | Yes (Red Cross) | BC-specific | | Certificate validity | 3 years (EMR) + 1 year (BLS) | Confirm with Metro Safety | 3 years | | Price | $1,198 | $699.99 + GST | Contact Metro Safety |

    FoodSafe vs WorkSafeBC First Aid — Are They Related?

    No. FoodSafe and workplace first aid are completely separate programs: - **FoodSafe** is about preventing foodborne illness — food handling, hygiene, temperature control, cleaning - **Workplace first aid (BFA, IFA, AFA)** is about providing emergency care to injured or ill workers at a job site FoodSafe certification does not satisfy any first aid requirement, and a BFA/IFA/AFA certificate does not satisfy any FoodSafe requirement. They serve entirely different regulatory purposes. Workers in food service settings who are also required to hold a workplace first aid certificate must obtain both independently.

    WorkSafeBC Compliance — What Does My Business Need?

    Under the WorkSafeBC OHS Regulation (Part 3), every BC employer must provide first aid services appropriate to the hazards of the workplace. This means having the right level of first aid attendant on site and the right first aid kit. The minimum requirement is determined by four factors: 1. Number of workers at the site 2. Industry hazard rating (Low / Moderate / High) 3. Whether the site is remote (more than 30 minutes from the nearest BCEHS ambulance station) 4. Whether the site is less accessible to ambulance services **General guidance:** - Small offices, retail, and low-hazard settings (2–19 workers): Basic First Aid attendant - Moderate-to-high hazard workplaces or larger teams: Intermediate or Advanced First Aid attendant - Remote or less accessible sites: Higher level certification + possible Transportation Endorsement required We can help you figure out exactly what your workplace requires. Just describe your industry, number of workers, and location, and we will look it up for you based on Schedule 3-A of the WorkSafeBC OHS Regulation.

    Is PFA a Mental Health Treatment?

    No. Psychological First Aid is first aid for psychological distress — just as physical first aid is not surgery or medicine, PFA is not therapy or clinical mental health care. PFA is the appropriate response in the **immediate aftermath** of a traumatic event. It supports natural recovery and connects people with professional help when needed. It does not replace: - Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) - Counselling or therapy - Psychiatric care - Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) — a separate, more structured debriefing model A PFA-trained supervisor or colleague is not a therapist and should not try to be one. Knowing when to refer is as important as knowing how to listen.

    OFA vs BFA/IFA/AFA — What Changed?

    WorkSafeBC updated the naming of occupational first aid certification levels effective November 1, 2024, as part of adopting the CSA Z1210-17 standard: | Old Name | New Name | |---|---| | OFA Level 1 | Basic First Aid (BFA) | | OFA Level 2 | Intermediate First Aid (IFA) | | OFA Level 3 | Advanced First Aid (AFA) | **If you already have an OFA certificate:** It remains valid. OFA Level 1, 2, and 3 certificates issued before November 1, 2024, are accepted as equivalent to BFA, IFA, and AFA respectively until their natural expiry date — up to a maximum of November 1, 2027. When you renew, you will receive the new BFA/IFA/AFA certificate under the updated naming system.

    Contact and Booking

    To register for a course, view available dates, or get answers to questions we haven't covered, visit our website or contact us directly. Our team is available to help you choose the right course, confirm WorkSafeBC requirements for your workplace, arrange group training, or answer any questions about certification.

    CSTS vs Full Safety Courses — What Is the Difference?

    CSTS provides **awareness-level training** — it introduces workers to safety concepts and helps them recognize hazards. It is not a substitute for the full training required before performing specific high-hazard tasks. | Task | CSTS provides | Full course required | |---|---|---| | Work at heights (3+ metres) | Fall protection awareness | Fall Protection Training (Metro Safety) | | Enter a confined space | Confined space awareness | Confined Space Safety for Entrants | | Operate a forklift | Equipment safety awareness | Forklift Operator Training | | Transport dangerous goods | General awareness only | TDG Certification | Workers who receive CSTS training and then move into high-hazard roles will need additional, task-specific training before performing those activities.

    Emergency Child Care First Aid vs Full Child Care First Aid — What Is the Difference?

    | Feature | Emergency Child Care FA (Level B) | Full Child Care First Aid | |---|---|---| | Duration | 8 hours | ~14–16 hours (2 days) | | CPR level | Level B | Level C | | Topics depth | Emergency response focus | Full first aid + child health curriculum | | Febrile seizures | Yes | Yes | | Shaken baby syndrome | Not included | Yes | | Childhood illnesses | Not included | Yes | | Medication administration | Not included | Yes | | Toy/equipment safety | Not included | Yes | | When to call EMS vs parent | Basic | Detailed | | Price | $98.00 | Higher | | Cert validity | 3 years | 3 years | **Choose Emergency Child Care First Aid Level B** if your employer or licensing body accepts the emergency-level program and you want a shorter, more affordable option. **Choose full Child Care First Aid** if your licensing body requires the comprehensive program, or if you work in a more complex child care environment where the additional curriculum (childhood illnesses, medication administration, shaken baby syndrome) is important.

    What Happens If I Don't Pass?

    **Practical skills:** If you do not pass a skill check, your instructor may allow you to remediate (re-attempt) on the same day, at their discretion, after the written exam is completed. **Written exam:** If you do not pass the written exam, you may attempt a second exam no sooner than 24 hours after your first attempt. Candidates who do not complete their second exam within 60 days must retake the full course. **If you cannot complete the course** due to illness or an emergency, contact us as soon as possible. We will discuss options for completing the remaining course components.

    What Is Psychological First Aid?

    Psychological First Aid is a framework for providing humane, supportive assistance to people in the immediate aftermath of a traumatic event or stressful situation. These events may include workplace accidents, natural disasters, violence, serious illness, job loss, or any event that overwhelms a person's normal coping capacity. PFA does not involve: - Diagnosing a mental health condition - Providing therapy or counselling - Forcing a person to talk about what happened (debriefing) - Offering opinions or advice about what the person should feel PFA focuses on practical support: making people feel safe, heard, and connected to help.

    2-Rescuer CPR — What Is It?

    When two trained responders are present, they can share the effort of CPR to reduce fatigue and maintain compression quality over longer periods. In 2-rescuer CPR: - One person performs compressions while the other manages the airway and delivers rescue breaths - Rescuers switch roles every 2 minutes (approximately 5 cycles of 30:2) - Clear communication between rescuers is critical — announce before switching to avoid interrupting the compression cycle - 2-rescuer CPR is particularly important in the healthcare setting (covered in more depth in BLS) CPR Level C introduces this concept. BLS provides more advanced 2-rescuer team training.

    IFA vs AFA — When Do You Need Advanced?

    | | IFA (Intermediate First Aid) | AFA (Advanced First Aid) | |---|---|---| | Duration | 2 days / 14 hours | ~2 weeks / 70 hours | | Prerequisites | None | None (but IFA knowledge assumed) | | Required for | Moderate-to-high hazard workplaces, most remote sites | High hazard remote workplaces, large remote operations, high worker counts | | Covers | Full emergency response, chest injuries, environmental, burns, major fractures | Everything in IFA plus advanced airway management, oxygen therapy, spinal packaging, mass casualty triage, extended patient care | Most BC workplaces that require an occupational first aid attendant are covered by BFA or IFA. AFA is primarily required in remote, high-hazard industries such as logging, mining, and large remote construction. If you are unsure, tell us your industry and worker count and we will help you identify the right level.

    Transportation Endorsement — Do I Need It?

    If your workplace is remote (more than 30 minutes from the nearest BCEHS ambulance station), WorkSafeBC may require your first aid attendant to also hold a Transportation Endorsement. This is a separate 7-hour course that teaches safe patient transport by vehicle, boat, or helicopter for extended periods. The Transportation Endorsement can be added to either IFA or AFA certification. Contact us if your workplace is remote and you need to confirm whether this endorsement is required.

    ASTTBC and Safety Central — What Are These Organizations?

    **ASTTBC — Applied Science Technologists and Technicians of British Columbia** ASTTBC is a provincial regulatory body that certifies applied science and engineering technologists and technicians in BC. The Construction Safety Officer (CSO) designation falls under ASTTBC's certification framework. Employers in BC who require a designated CSO typically expect the holder to be ASTTBC-certified. **Safety Central** Safety Central is a WorkSafeBC-aligned training organization that develops and delivers construction safety training in BC. The CSO program offered through Metro Safety is Safety Central's curriculum, delivered at Safety Central's Burnaby facility.

    CPR Level B vs CPR Level C — What Is the Difference?

    Both cover adults, children, and infants for CPR. The difference is in scope: | Feature | CPR Level B | CPR Level C | |---|---|---| | Adult CPR | Yes | Yes | | Child CPR | Yes | Yes | | Infant CPR | Yes | Yes | | 2-rescuer CPR | Not included | Yes | | Heart attack/stroke content | Limited | More detailed | | AED | Yes | Yes | | Duration | Shorter | Slightly longer | **Level B is accepted in many child care settings.** If your employer or licensing body specifically requires Level C, take the full Red Cross Child Care First Aid or the CPR Level C course instead.

    CPR Level A vs CPR Level B vs CPR Level C — What Is the Difference?

    The Red Cross CPR series has three levels based on which patient populations are covered: | Level | Covers | Typical Use | |---|---|---| | CPR Level A | Adults only | Basic personal preparedness | | CPR Level B | Adults + children and infants | Child care settings, parents | | CPR Level C | Adults + children + infants (full coverage) | Workplace compliance, most employer requirements | | BLS (CPR HCP) | Adults + children + infants + 2-rescuer CPR + healthcare skills | Healthcare providers, first responders | **Level C is the most commonly required level** for workplace CPR compliance and Standard First Aid programs in BC. When in doubt, choose Level C.

    What to Expect on Course Day

    Here is what typically happens on the day of your first aid course: 1. **Arrive 10–15 minutes early** to complete registration and check in 2. **Bring your government-issued photo ID** — this is required for WorkSafeBC certification and cannot be substituted 3. The instructor will review the course schedule, objectives, and evaluation criteria 4. You will move between classroom instruction and hands-on practical skills throughout the day 5. All equipment is provided — mannequins, AED trainers, first aid supplies 6. Wear comfortable clothing you can move and kneel in; closed-toe shoes are required 7. You will complete a written exam near the end of the course 8. Results and next steps are communicated before you leave Attendance is mandatory for 100% of the course. Arriving late or leaving early will affect your ability to receive certification.

    EFA vs Standard First Aid — What Is the Difference?

    | Feature | Emergency First Aid (EFA) | Standard First Aid (SFA) | |---|---|---| | Duration | ~4.5–5 hours (half day) | ~7–8 hours (full day, blended) | | CPR level | Level C (adults, children, infants) | Level C (adults, children, infants) | | Topics covered | Core emergency response only | Full first aid curriculum | | Wound care depth | Basic | Comprehensive | | Medical emergencies | Core emergencies only | Broader range | | Environmental emergencies | Basic | More detailed | | Certification | Red Cross EFA + CPR Level C | Red Cross SFA + CPR Level C | | Validity | 3 years | 3 years | | Price | $98.00 | $135.00 (blended) | | WorkSafeBC compliant? | No | No | **EFA is the right choice** if you need a recognized first aid certificate quickly and your workplace or organization does not require the full Standard First Aid curriculum. **Standard First Aid is the right choice** if you need more comprehensive coverage, are working toward an advanced role, or if your employer specifies Standard First Aid as the minimum.

    EMR as a Pathway to Paramedic Programs

    For AFA/OFA 3 holders considering a career in EMS, the EMR Bridge Course is the most direct route to formal pre-hospital credentials. EMR is the foundational level of the EMS profession in Canada: **Canadian EMS credential levels (general):** 1. Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) — entry level; 3-year certification 2. Primary Care Paramedic (PCP) — requires EMR; diploma/certificate program (~1 year full-time) 3. Advanced Care Paramedic (ACP) — requires PCP; advanced program 4. Critical Care Paramedic (CCP) — highest field level Completing the EMR Bridge at Metro Safety puts AFA holders on the first rung of this ladder without starting over. Contact a provincial EMS program directly to confirm specific entry requirements for the paramedic program you're targeting.

    Secondary Assessment — SAMPLE History and Vital Signs

    After addressing all life-threatening conditions, perform a secondary assessment to identify less obvious problems. **Step 1 — Ask SAMPLE Questions:** Interview the person using the SAMPLE acronym: - **S** — Signs and symptoms (what they are experiencing) - **A** — Allergies - **M** — Medications (current prescriptions or over-the-counter) - **P** — Past medical history - **L** — Last oral intake (food or drink, and when) - **E** — Events leading up to the emergency **Step 2 — Check Vital Signs:** - Level of responsiveness: Is the person alert, sleepy, or confused? Is it changing? - Breathing: Is it fast, slow, shallow, deep, or painful? - Skin: Is it dry or wet? An unusual colour or temperature? **Step 3 — Injury Check:** - Responsive person: perform a focused examination — ask where it hurts and look at those areas. - Unresponsive person: perform a hands-on check starting at the head, then chest, abdomen, and legs before arms. If you find a medical alert bracelet, necklace, or card during the check, read it carefully — it may provide critical information about allergies, medications, or medical conditions.

    Applying a Tourniquet

    A tourniquet is used when direct pressure cannot control life-threatening limb bleeding. **When to use a tourniquet:** - Bleeding cannot be controlled with direct pressure alone - You cannot access the wound (e.g., trapped limb) - You must move the person and cannot maintain pressure **Steps:** 1. Position the tourniquet 5 to 10 cm (2 to 4 inches) above the wound, and at least 2.5 cm (1 inch) above any joint. 2. Tighten until the bleeding stops. 3. Secure in place. 4. Document (note or write) the exact time the tourniquet was tightened — this is critical for EMS and hospital personnel. If a commercial tourniquet is not available, an improvised tourniquet can be made from a triangular bandage (or other wide strip of fabric) and a pen, marker, or stick used as a windlass. Never use thin cord, wire, or rope.

    Asthma — Recognition and Care

    Asthma is a chronic condition that causes the airways to narrow and makes breathing difficult. Attacks can be triggered by dust, smoke, stress, exercise, cold air, or allergens. **Signs and symptoms:** - Difficulty breathing: gasping, wheezing, coughing, or rapid shallow breathing - Unable to say more than a few words without pausing to breathe - Tightness in the chest **Call:** Call EMS/9-1-1 and get an AED if the person is struggling severely to breathe or does not improve after taking their medication. **Care:** 1. If something in the environment is triggering the attack, move the person away from it. 2. Help the person take their quick-relief (rescue) inhaler medication. If the person cannot administer their own inhaler and has indicated they need help, you may assist them.

    Using an Inhaler

    **Without a spacer:** 1. Shake the inhaler and remove the cap. 2. Have the person breathe out completely, away from the inhaler. 3. Bring the inhaler to their mouth and close around the mouthpiece. 4. Press the top of the inhaler as the person takes one slow, full breath. 5. Hold the breath for as long as comfortable. **With a spacer:** 1. Shake the inhaler, remove the cap, and insert into the spacer. 2. Bring the spacer mouthpiece to the person's lips. 3. Press the top of the inhaler. 4. Have the person take slow, deep breaths, holding each for several seconds. A spacer improves medication delivery to the lungs and is particularly useful for children and anyone who has difficulty coordinating the press-and-breathe technique.

    Anaphylaxis — Severe Allergic Reaction

    Anaphylaxis is a severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. It can be triggered by foods (peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish), insect stings, medications, or latex. **Signs:** A person should be treated for anaphylaxis if they show signs in two or more of these categories after contact with a possible allergen: - **Skin:** Rash, hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue - **Breathing:** High-pitched noises when breathing, difficulty breathing - **Alertness:** Dizziness, confusion, altered responsiveness - **Stomach:** Vomiting, abdominal cramping **Call:** Call EMS/9-1-1 and get an AED. **Care — Epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen):** 1. Remove the safety cap. 2. Firmly push the tip against the outer thigh (through clothing is acceptable). Hold until you hear a click, then keep in place for 5 to 10 seconds as directed. 3. Rub the injection site for 30 seconds. 4. If the person's condition does not improve within 5 minutes, use a second dose if available. 5. Have the person rest quietly until EMS arrives. If the person cannot administer their own epinephrine and has indicated they need help, you may administer it for them. Always call EMS even if symptoms improve after epinephrine — the reaction can return.

    Wound Care — Cuts, Scrapes, and Bandaging

    **Cuts and scrapes:** 1. If bleeding significantly, apply direct pressure until it stops. 2. Rinse the wound with clean running water for 5 minutes. 3. Bandage the wound. **Bandaging guidelines:** - Use clean, sterile dressings. - Check circulation (pulse, colour, temperature) below the injury before and after bandaging. If circulation is reduced after bandaging, loosen it. - If blood soaks through a bandage, apply a second bandage on top — do not remove the first. **Head wounds:** Head wounds can look severe but may be less serious than they appear. However, if you feel a dip or soft area in the skull, treat as a head injury. Apply direct pressure only if there is life-threatening bleeding; otherwise apply pressure around the wound, not directly over the soft area. **Signs of infection:** Monitor any open wound in the days following injury for redness, swelling, warmth, or discharge. Seek medical attention if these appear.

    Burns — Thermal, Chemical, and Electrical

    **Types of burns:** - **Superficial:** Redness, pain — affects only the outer skin layer - **Partial thickness:** Blistering — affects deeper layers - **Full thickness:** Dry, leathery, or charred skin — may be painless due to nerve damage **Call EMS/9-1-1 immediately if:** - Burns make it difficult to breathe - Burns were caused by chemicals, explosions, or electricity - Burns are full thickness, involve large areas of blistered skin, or cover the face, neck, hands, or genitals **Care — thermal burns:** 1. Cool the burned area with water or a cool compress for at least 10 minutes. 2. Remove jewellery and loose clothing from the burn area (do not remove anything stuck to the skin). 3. Cover loosely with a dry, sterile dressing. **Care — chemical burns:** 1. Put on protective equipment before touching the person. 2. Remove any clothing with chemical on it. Brush off dry powder before applying water. 3. Flush with large amounts of cool running water for at least 15 minutes. **Care — electrical burns:** 1. Ensure the electrical current has been turned off before touching the person. 2. Keep the person still. 3. Look for and treat two burns: the entry and exit points where current entered and exited the body. 4. Monitor ABCs closely — electrical currents can cause cardiac arrhythmias. **Bruises:** Apply a cold pack wrapped in a towel for up to 20 minutes per hour for up to 48 hours.

    Cold-Related Illness — Frostbite and Hypothermia

    **Frostbite:** Freezing of skin and underlying tissue due to prolonged cold exposure. Signs: - Superficial: Hardened, pale skin; pain or stinging followed by numbness - Deep: Skin and tissue hard and solid, white/blue/black or mottled colour, complete loss of sensation Care: 1. Remove anything restricting blood flow (jewellery, tight clothing). 2. Thaw the area only if you are certain it will not re-freeze — use warm (not hot) water or body heat. 3. Cover with loose, dry dressings. Place gauze between toes or fingers. Leave blisters intact. 4. Elevate thawed extremities above heart level if possible. 5. Ensure the person receives medical attention. **Hypothermia:** Dangerously low core body temperature due to prolonged cold exposure. Signs range from shivering and cold stress (mild) to impaired movement and unresponsiveness (severe). Care: Move to a warm environment. Remove wet clothing. Warm the person gradually — start with the core (chest and torso), not the extremities. Give warm fluids only if the person is fully alert. Call EMS/9-1-1 for moderate to severe hypothermia.

    Poisons — Carbon Monoxide and Opioid Poisoning

    **Carbon monoxide (CO):** CO is an odourless, colourless gas produced by gas engines, furnaces, and heaters. It is impossible to detect without a CO detector. Signs: Headache, dizziness, confusion, weakness, fatigue, muscle cramps, nausea, vomiting, chest pain. Care: 1. Move the person (and yourself) immediately to fresh air. 2. Call EMS/9-1-1. 3. Do not re-enter the building. **Opioid poisoning:** Signs: Unresponsiveness or extreme drowsiness, slow or stopped breathing, blue lips or fingertips, tiny (pinpoint) pupils, gurgling or choking sounds. Call EMS/9-1-1 immediately. If naloxone (Narcan) is available and accessible: administer it according to the instructions on the kit. Naloxone can temporarily reverse opioid overdose. Continue CPR if the person is not breathing. Naloxone wears off in 30 to 90 minutes — always wait for EMS even if the person appears to recover. Naloxone kits are available without a prescription at most BC pharmacies.

    Head, Neck, Spine, and Pelvis Injuries

    Head, neck, spine, and pelvis injuries can be life-threatening. Always suspect a spinal injury if the mechanism of injury (fall, vehicle crash, diving accident) could have caused one. **When to call EMS/9-1-1:** Call EMS/9-1-1 for any suspected head, neck, spine, or pelvis injury. Also call if the person: - Is unresponsive - Has a deteriorating level of responsiveness - Has any neurological signs (numbness, tingling, weakness, or loss of movement in limbs) - Vomits or has a severe headache following a head injury **Care:** - Do not move the person unless the scene is unsafe and you must. - If you must move them, keep the head, neck, and back aligned as one unit — log-roll with assistance. - Monitor breathing and responsiveness continuously. - If the person is unresponsive and breathing, roll into the recovery position using a log-roll technique to maintain spinal alignment. **Concussion:** A concussion is a type of brain injury caused by a bump or blow to the head. Signs include headache, dizziness, confusion, memory problems, nausea, sensitivity to light or noise, and slurred speech. Any concussion requires the person to stop all activity immediately and see a healthcare provider. Return to activity should only happen with medical clearance. If any of the following occur, call EMS/9-1-1: repeated vomiting, loss of consciousness, seizures, unequal pupils, or severe worsening headache.

    TDG — The 9 Hazard Classes

    The TDG classification system organizes dangerous goods into 9 classes: | Class | Category | |---|---| | 1 | Explosives | | 2 | Gases (flammable, non-flammable, toxic) | | 3 | Flammable Liquids | | 4 | Flammable Solids, Spontaneously Combustible, Dangerous When Wet | | 5 | Oxidizing Substances and Organic Peroxides | | 6 | Toxic and Infectious Substances | | 7 | Radioactive Materials | | 8 | Corrosive Substances | | 9 | Miscellaneous Dangerous Goods | The course teaches how to identify the correct class, division, and packing group for a given material, and what safety marks (labels and placards) must be applied before shipping.

    Breathing Emergencies in Children — Asthma and Anaphylaxis

    **Asthma:** Asthma attacks in children can be triggered by dust, pet dander, smoke, exercise, cold air, or stress. Signs: Difficulty breathing, wheezing or coughing, unable to say more than a few words without pausing, chest tightness. Care: Move the child away from the trigger. Help the child use their quick-relief inhaler. Call EMS/9-1-1 if the child is struggling severely or does not improve after medication. When using an inhaler with a spacer (recommended for children): insert inhaler into the spacer, press the top, have the child take slow, deep breaths through the spacer mouthpiece and hold each breath for a few seconds. **Anaphylaxis:** A severe allergic reaction that is life-threatening. Common triggers in children include peanuts, tree nuts, eggs, milk, shellfish, insect stings, and certain medications. Signs (from two or more categories): skin (rash, swelling), breathing (high-pitched noises, difficulty breathing), alertness (dizziness, confusion), stomach (vomiting). Call EMS/9-1-1 and get an AED. Help the child use their epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen) immediately — firm pressure to the outer thigh, hold for 5 to 10 seconds. If no improvement in 5 minutes and a second dose is available, use it. The child must be seen by EMS even if symptoms improve.

    CPR — Adults and Children

    CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) is used when a person is unresponsive and not breathing. **Call:** - For adults: call EMS/9-1-1 and get an AED before starting CPR if you are alone. - For children or babies: if alone, do 5 cycles (approximately 2 minutes) of CPR first, then call EMS. **Technique — Adult (2 hands) or Child (1 or 2 hands):** 1. Place hand(s) in the centre of the chest. Push deeply and steadily at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute (30 compressions in about 15 to 18 seconds). 2. After 30 compressions, open the airway (head-tilt/chin-lift), place a barrier device over the mouth and nose, and give 2 rescue breaths — just enough air to make the chest start to rise. 3. If both breaths go in, repeat the cycle of 30 compressions and 2 breaths. **Compression depth:** - Adult: at least 5 cm (2 inches) - Child: at least one-third the depth of the chest - Allow the chest to fully recoil between compressions. **Continue CPR until:** - EMS personnel or another trained person takes over - You are too exhausted to continue - The scene becomes unsafe - An obvious sign of life appears (such as movement) **If rescue breaths don't go in:** Reposition the head and try once more. If still no air entry, do 30 compressions, look in the mouth and remove any visible object, then retry breaths. Repeat until breaths go in or EMS takes over.

    Bone, Muscle, and Joint Injuries — RICE Method

    There are four basic types of bone, muscle, and joint injuries: - **Strain:** Stretching or tearing of muscles or tendons - **Sprain:** Stretching or tearing of ligaments at a joint - **Dislocation:** A bone moved out of its normal position at a joint - **Fracture:** A chip, crack, or break in a bone **Signs:** Deformity, swelling, bruising, limited or no use of the injured part, bone fragments visible through the skin. **Call EMS/9-1-1 if:** - The injury is to the thigh bone or pelvis - The area below the injury is numb, pale, blue, or cold - Bone is protruding through the skin - The person cannot be safely moved **Care — RICE method:** - **R** — Rest: Have the person rest comfortably. - **I** — Immobilize: Keep the injured area as still as possible. Use a splint or sling if needed. - **C** — Cool: Apply a cold pack wrapped in a towel for 20 minutes every hour. - **E** — Elevate: Raise the injury above heart level if this does not cause more pain. Common household items (folded newspaper, a scarf, a pillow, a belt) can be used to improvise slings and splints when commercial versions are not available.

    Seizures in Children

    A seizure is an episode of abnormal brain activity causing temporary loss of muscle control. **Signs:** Uncontrollable muscle movement, repetitive motions, drooling or foaming, altered responsiveness. **Call EMS/9-1-1 if:** - You do not know the child's medical history - The seizure lasts more than a few minutes - The child has several seizures in a row - The child is unresponsive for an extended period **Care:** 1. Remove objects that could cause injury. Cushion the head with something soft. 2. Do not restrain the child or put anything in their mouth. 3. After the seizure, roll the child into the recovery position. They may be drowsy or confused for up to 20 minutes — this is normal.

    CPR — Babies Under 1 Year

    **Technique — Baby:** 1. Place 2 fingers in the centre of the chest (just below the nipple line), OR wrap both hands around the baby with both thumbs on the middle of the chest. 2. Push deeply and steadily — at least one-third the depth of the chest — at 100 to 120 compressions per minute. 3. After 30 compressions, open the airway, place a barrier device over the baby's mouth and nose, and give 2 gentle breaths — just enough to make the chest start to rise. 4. Repeat the cycle of 30 compressions and 2 breaths. Traditional CPR with rescue breaths is the recommended method for babies and young children. Compression-only CPR is acceptable if you are unable or unwilling to give rescue breaths.

    Diabetic Emergencies

    A diabetic emergency occurs when blood sugar levels are too high or too low. Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) is more common and develops faster. **Signs and symptoms:** - Changes in level of responsiveness - Confusion, aggression, or unusual behaviour - Rapid breathing - Cool, sweaty skin with unusual colour - Appearance of intoxication - Seizures **Call EMS/9-1-1 if:** - The person is not fully conscious - The person has a seizure - The person's condition does not improve within 10 minutes of taking sugar **Care:** 1. If the person is conscious and can swallow safely, give them sugar. Preferred sources (in order): oral glucose tablets, chewable candy, fruit juice, fruit strips, milk. Other sugar forms also work if these are unavailable. 2. If condition does not improve within 10 minutes, call EMS/9-1-1 and continue giving sugar if safe. Do not give insulin — only sugar. You cannot make a low blood sugar worse by giving sugar, but you can make an unresponsive person worse by trying to give them something to drink.

    How Do I Know Which First Aid Certification My Workplace Needs?

    WorkSafeBC determines the minimum first aid requirement for every BC workplace using Schedule 3-A of the OHS Regulation (Part 3). You need to know four things about your workplace: 1. **Number of workers** present at the worksite at any one time 2. **Hazard rating** of your industry: Low, Moderate, or High 3. **Remote?** — Is your worksite more than 30 minutes surface travel from the nearest BCEHS ambulance station? 4. **Less accessible?** — Can BCEHS ambulances safely reach and enter your work area? These four factors place your workplace into one of four classes (Class 1 through 4), and then a table cross-references your worker count against your hazard rating to determine the minimum first aid level required. If you tell us your industry, number of workers, and whether your site is remote or in a city, we can help you work through this.

    Febrile Seizures in Children

    Febrile seizures can occur in babies and young children when their body temperature rises suddenly. They are most commonly associated with fevers above 39°C (102°F). While frightening, febrile seizures are usually non-life-threatening and brief. **Always call EMS/9-1-1** when a child has a febrile seizure. **To reduce the risk of febrile seizure in a child with a high fever:** 1. Remove excess clothing and blankets. 2. Give the child a sponge bath with room-temperature (not icy cold) water. 3. Provide plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. 4. Give fever-reducing medication only if provided by the child's parent or guardian. **Important:** Do not give ASA (Aspirin) to a child or teenager with a fever. ASA is associated with Reye's syndrome, a rare but serious condition in children.

    Check, Call, Care — The Red Cross Emergency Response Framework

    The Red Cross teaches a three-step framework for responding to any emergency: **Check** - First, check the scene: Is it safe? Are there hazards? What happened? How many people are injured? - Then check the person: Are they responsive? Check their ABCs — Airway, Breathing, Circulation. **Call** - If the person is unresponsive or has a life-threatening condition, call EMS/9-1-1 immediately. - Whenever possible, send a bystander to call while you stay with the person. - For a child or baby when you are alone: do 5 cycles (about 2 minutes) of CPR first, then call EMS. **Care** - Provide care within the scope of your training, starting with life-threatening conditions first. - Continue to monitor breathing, level of responsiveness, and condition until EMS arrives. - Place an unresponsive person in the recovery position if they are breathing. Repeat Check, Call, and Care as conditions change until EMS personnel take over.

    Compression-Only CPR — When Is It Acceptable

    Compression-only CPR delivers chest compressions without rescue breaths. It is an acceptable alternative when: - You are unwilling or unable to give rescue breaths for any reason - You have not been trained in rescue breathing Compression-only CPR is better than no CPR. However, traditional CPR with rescue breaths is the recommended method, especially for children and babies who are more likely to be in respiratory (not cardiac) arrest. If you start compression-only CPR, continue at 100 to 120 compressions per minute without stopping for breaths until EMS arrives or you are too exhausted to continue.

    Seizures

    A seizure is an episode of abnormal electrical activity in the brain that causes temporary loss of muscle control. **Signs:** Uncontrollable muscle movement, repetitive motions, drooling or foaming at the mouth, altered level of responsiveness. **Call EMS/9-1-1 if:** - You do not know the person's medical history - The seizure lasts more than a few minutes - The person has multiple seizures in a row - The person does not regain responsiveness **Care:** 1. Protect the person from injury by removing objects that could cause harm and cushioning the head with something soft. 2. Do not restrain the person or put anything in their mouth. 3. After the seizure stops, roll the person into the recovery position. They may be drowsy and confused for up to 20 minutes — this is normal.

    Workplace Hazard Ratings — What Industry Am I In?

    WorkSafeBC classifies industries into Low, Moderate, and High hazard categories. General guidance: **Low Hazard:** Offices, retail stores, financial services, schools, libraries, most professional services. **Moderate Hazard:** Restaurants and hospitality, light manufacturing, warehouses, wholesale, most healthcare settings, daycare and social services. **High Hazard:** Construction, forestry, logging, mining, oil and gas, heavy manufacturing, fishing, pulp and paper, agriculture, utilities. If you are unsure of your hazard rating, WorkSafeBC publishes the full industry classification list. We can also help you figure it out — just tell us what your business does.

    Childhood Illnesses and Fevers

    **Fever basics:** Normal body temperature is 37°C (98.6°F). A temperature above 37.8°C is considered a fever. A mild fever is only a concern if it lasts more than 48 hours, or if the child's behaviour is unusual. **Taking a child's temperature:** - Use a thermometer under the tongue (oral) or in the ear. For oral readings, ensure the child has not had anything hot or cold in the previous 10 minutes. - Record the temperature, method, and time. - In a group setting, use disposable covers for each child. **When to call EMS/9-1-1 for a child in your care:** Call 9-1-1 for any life-threatening emergency: choking, unresponsiveness, respiratory distress, or life-threatening bleeding. In these situations, call EMS first, then the child's parent or guardian. **When to call the parent or guardian:** - The child has a fever - The child has diarrhea more than twice in a day - The child has been vomiting - The child has an injury requiring medical attention For minor issues (small cuts, mild changes in behaviour), notify the parent at pick-up time. **Protecting children from infection in a care setting:** - Keep sick staff home. - Encourage parents to keep ill children home. - Have an isolation area for children who become unwell during the day. - Wash hands before and after contact with any child showing signs of illness. - Clean and sanitize high-traffic surfaces (tables, bathroom fixtures, toilet trainers) daily with an approved solution. - Teach children to cover their mouths when coughing or sneezing and wash hands afterward.

    Mental Health Emergencies

    A mental health emergency is a situation in which a person's mental health crisis poses an immediate risk to themselves or others. **Signs:** Confusion or difficulty thinking, hallucinations (hearing voices or seeing things that are not there), extreme withdrawal, noticeable mood swings, or behaviour that puts the person or others at risk of harm. **Call EMS/9-1-1 immediately if you believe the person poses a risk to themselves or others.** In Canada, the **9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline** is available 24/7 by phone or text message for anyone thinking about suicide. **Care:** 1. Create a calm environment. Minimize distractions. 2. Recognize the person's feelings without judgment. 3. Use active listening — let them speak without interrupting. 4. Do not leave the person alone if they may be at risk of self-harm. 5. Connect them with mental health professionals or community resources.

    What Is a Class 1 Workplace?

    Class 1 workplaces are the most common: they are **not remote** and **not less accessible**. This covers virtually all urban and suburban workplaces in Metro Vancouver — offices, retail, restaurants, warehouses, construction sites within 30 minutes of ambulance services. **Minimum first aid for Class 1 workplaces (simplified):** - 2–9 workers, Low hazard: First aid kit only (no attendant required) - 2–9 workers, Moderate or High hazard: First aid kit + Basic First Aid attendant - 10–19 workers, any hazard: First aid kit + Basic First Aid attendant - 20–49 workers, Low hazard: First aid kit + Basic First Aid attendant - 20–49 workers, Moderate hazard: Intermediate first aid kit + Dressing station + Intermediate first aid attendant - 20–49 workers, High hazard: Intermediate kit + Dressing station + Basic attendant + Intermediate attendant - 50–99 workers, Low hazard: Intermediate kit + Basic attendant + Intermediate attendant - 100+ workers: Typically requires Intermediate or Advanced attendants depending on hazard This is a simplified summary. For your exact requirement, visit the WorkSafeBC website or ask us — we can look up the exact row for your workplace.

    Giving Medication to Children in Your Care

    In a child care setting, you may only give a child medication (prescription or non-prescription) if: - You have written permission from the child's parent or guardian. - The medication is in its original container with the child's name and clear dosing instructions. - You follow the parent's specific instructions and the label exactly. Document all medication given: the medication name, dose, time, and who administered it. **Do not give a child:** ASA (Aspirin) for fever, insulin, or any medication without written parental consent.

    Shock — Signs and First Aid Response

    Shock is a life-threatening condition that can develop with any serious injury or illness. Always be alert for shock when providing first aid. **Signs and symptoms of shock:** - Anxiety or confusion - Cool, clammy skin that may appear pale, grey, or bluish - Weakness - Excessive thirst - Rapid breathing - Drowsiness or loss of responsiveness - Nausea and vomiting **Care:** 1. Call EMS/9-1-1. 2. Treat the suspected cause of the shock. 3. Keep the person still and comfortable. Do not give anything to drink. 4. Monitor breathing and level of responsiveness continuously until EMS arrives.

    Heat-Related Illness

    **Heat exhaustion:** The body is overheating but still trying to compensate. Signs: Moist, warm skin; headache; weakness; nausea or vomiting; fainting; dizziness. Care: Move to a cool location. Loosen clothing. Cool the person by applying damp cloths and fanning, or applying ice packs to the armpits. If alert, give a cool drink. Call EMS if the person is vomiting, dizzy, or loses responsiveness. **Heat stroke:** A life-threatening emergency — the body's cooling system has failed. Signs: Hot, dry skin; unresponsiveness; seizures; severe headache; rapid, shallow breathing; confusion or aggressive behaviour. **Call EMS/9-1-1 and get an AED immediately.** Cool the person as aggressively as possible using any available method.

    What Is a Remote or Less Accessible Workplace?

    **Remote:** More than 30 minutes surface travel time from the nearest BCEHS ambulance station. Many rural and resource-industry worksites in BC fall into this category. **Less accessible:** A site that BCEHS ambulance cannot safely reach, or has work areas BCEHS personnel cannot safely enter. This includes certain elevated construction, underground mining, offshore, or waterfront sites. Remote and less accessible workplaces generally require a higher first aid level than equivalent non-remote sites, and often require the Transportation Endorsement in addition to the first aid attendant certification.

    Shaken Baby Syndrome

    Shaken Baby Syndrome (SBS) occurs when a baby or young child is violently shaken, causing the brain to move inside the skull. It is one of the most common causes of death and long-term disability in infants. **Signs (which may not be immediately obvious):** - Unexplained injuries - Bruising, particularly on the head and face - Bleeding or clear fluid from the ears or nose - Minor or major neurological symptoms **Call EMS/9-1-1 immediately** if you suspect SBS. **Care:** Treat any injuries you observe. Do not make accusations or interrogate caregivers — leave investigation to authorities. Your role is to ensure the child receives emergency medical care as quickly as possible. **Prevention:** Never shake a baby — even gentle shaking can cause injury. When frustrated by a crying infant, put the baby down safely in their crib and step away briefly. Never leave a baby with someone who seems angry or out of control.

    Choking — Adults and Children

    If the person can cough or speak, their airway is not completely blocked. Encourage them to cough and stay ready to help if they stop coughing. If the airway is completely blocked, act immediately: **Call:** Begin care at once. Have a bystander call EMS/9-1-1, or call yourself as soon as possible. **Care:** Alternate between any two of these three methods until the object comes out: 1. **Back blows:** Place your arm across the person's chest, bend them forward, and deliver up to 5 firm blows between the shoulder blades. 2. **Abdominal thrusts:** Place your fist just above the belly button and give up to 5 quick, inward and upward thrusts. 3. **Chest thrusts:** Place your fist in the middle of the person's chest (thumb inward), cover with your other hand, and give up to 5 thrusts pulling straight back. If the person becomes unresponsive: call EMS/9-1-1 and begin CPR starting with chest compressions. **If you are alone and choking:** Call EMS/9-1-1, move to a visible location, and attempt abdominal thrusts against a firm object such as a countertop or chair back.

    Lowering the Risk of Infection During First Aid

    Always use personal protective equipment (PPE) when providing first aid: - **Gloves:** Use disposable gloves whenever contacting blood, body fluids, or open wounds. When removing, peel off the first glove without touching the outer surface, then use the tucked-in first glove to peel off the second. - **CPR breathing barriers:** Face shields or pocket masks reduce the risk of disease transmission during rescue breathing. - **Eye protection:** Goggles or safety glasses when there is a splash risk. **Handwashing:** 1. Remove jewellery, wet hands, apply soap. 2. Rub all surfaces (palms, backs, between fingers, under nails, wrists) for at least 30 seconds. 3. Rinse and dry with a clean towel. 4. In public washrooms, use the towel to turn off the tap. If no sink is available, use alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

    Bites and Stings

    **Insect stings:** 1. Remove the stinger by scraping — do not squeeze it. 2. Apply a cold pack wrapped in a towel. 3. Watch for signs of anaphylaxis. Call EMS/9-1-1 and get an AED if a severe allergic reaction develops. **Animal bites:** 1. Get the person safely away from the animal. Do not attempt to capture it. 2. Treat any wounds with direct pressure, rinsing, and bandaging. 3. Seek medical attention if the animal is stray, unknown, or potentially rabid. 4. Monitor for signs of infection. Contact local animal control if the animal is wild or a stray. **Tick bites:** If the tick has not attached: brush it off. If attached: 1. Grasp the tick by the head (not the body) as close to the skin as possible using tweezers. 2. Pull straight upward without twisting until it releases. 3. Clean the area with water. 4. Save the tick in a sealed container for identification — ticks can be tested for Lyme disease. 5. Seek medical attention if the area becomes infected or the person develops a fever or rash. **Snakebites:** 1. Get the person away from the snake. Do not try to catch or kill it — describe it to EMS. 2. Keep the person still with the bite site level with the heart. 3. Remove jewellery and tight clothing from the limb. 4. Wash and cover with a clean, dry dressing. 5. Call EMS/9-1-1 if you know or suspect the snake is venomous. **Marine stings (jellyfish, stingrays, sea urchins):** - Most jellyfish: flush with vinegar for 30 seconds, or baking soda paste for 20 minutes. - Stingrays, sea urchins, spiny fish: flush with ocean water. - Remove any pieces of the animal while wearing gloves or using a towel. - Immerse the affected area in hot (not scalding) water for at least 20 minutes. Call EMS/9-1-1 if there are breathing problems, the sting is on the face or neck, or you do not know what caused the sting.

    Choking — Children and Babies

    Children under 5 years old have a particularly high risk of choking. Watch for toys, food, coins, and small objects. **If the child can cough or speak:** The airway is not completely blocked. Encourage them to cough and stay ready to help. **If the airway is completely blocked — Child (over 1 year):** Call EMS/9-1-1. Begin care immediately. Alternate between any two of these three methods until the object comes out: 1. **Back blows:** Bend the child forward and deliver up to 5 firm blows between the shoulder blades. 2. **Abdominal thrusts:** Place your fist just above the belly button and give up to 5 quick inward and upward thrusts. 3. **Chest thrusts:** Place your fist in the centre of the chest and give up to 5 thrusts pulling straight back. If the child becomes unresponsive: call EMS/9-1-1 and begin CPR starting with compressions. **If the airway is completely blocked — Baby (under 1 year):** 1. Hold the baby face-down along your forearm, supporting the jaw and keeping the mouth clear. 2. Deliver 5 firm back blows between the shoulder blades. 3. Turn the baby face-up, supporting the head. 4. Place 2 fingers in the centre of the chest and deliver 5 chest compressions. 5. Repeat back blows and chest compressions until the object comes out or the baby begins breathing normally or crying. 6. If the baby becomes unresponsive: call EMS/9-1-1 and begin CPR.

    Toy and Equipment Safety in Child Care Settings

    Preventing injuries is as important as treating them. In a child care setting: **Toys:** - Ensure toys are age-appropriate and do not have small parts that could cause choking in children under 3 years. - Check toys regularly for broken pieces, sharp edges, or missing parts. - Remove toys with strings or cords longer than 30 cm (12 inches) from cribs and play areas. **Equipment:** - Check playground equipment regularly for wear, splinters, and structural integrity. - Ensure cribs meet current safety standards (no drop sides; slat spacing less than 6 cm / 2.4 inches). - Keep electrical outlets covered and cords managed and out of reach. **Escape plans:** - Post emergency exit routes visibly in the facility. - Practice emergency evacuation with staff. - Ensure children understand basic safety rules appropriate for their age. **Teaching children safety awareness:** - Teach children what to do if they feel unsafe or if someone approaches them unexpectedly. - Teach age-appropriate fire safety and "stop, drop, and roll." - Create an environment where children feel comfortable reporting if something feels wrong. **Responding to disclosures of abuse or neglect:** Every adult in Canada has a legal duty to report suspected child abuse or neglect. If a child discloses abuse to you, listen calmly, do not promise secrecy, and report to child protection services or police. Do not conduct your own investigation.

    Stroke — Signs and First Aid Response (FAST)

    A stroke occurs when blood flow to part of the brain is interrupted. It can happen at any age. **Signs and symptoms:** - Sudden, severe headache - Dizziness or confusion - Unresponsiveness or temporary loss of consciousness - Vision problems in one or both eyes - Sudden loss of bladder or bowel control **Use FAST to identify a stroke:** - **F — Face:** Ask the person to smile. Look for drooping or asymmetry on one side. - **A — Arm:** Ask the person to close their eyes, extend both arms, and face their palms up. Watch for one arm sagging or drifting. - **S — Speech:** Ask if their speech has changed. Listen for slurring or difficulty speaking. - **T — Time:** Time is critical. Note when symptoms started and call EMS/9-1-1 immediately. **Call:** Call EMS/9-1-1 and get an AED. **Care:** 1. Have the person rest in a comfortable position. 2. Record when symptoms first appeared (or when they were last known to be well). 3. Do not give anything to eat or drink.

    Can One Person Cover First Aid for Multiple Shifts?

    No. WorkSafeBC requires that a designated first aid attendant be present at the worksite during all work hours. If your workplace operates multiple shifts, each shift must have its own designated attendant holding a valid certificate appropriate to your workplace class and hazard rating. For employers with shift operations, group training packages are available. Contact us to discuss scheduling for multiple cohorts or staggered certification dates.

    Life-Threatening Bleeding in Children

    **External bleeding:** 1. Apply firm, direct pressure to the wound immediately. 2. Call EMS/9-1-1. 3. Bandage in place while maintaining pressure. 4. If blood soaks through, apply a second bandage on top. 5. If direct pressure does not control bleeding, consider using a tourniquet. **Tourniquet placement for a child:** - Apply 5 to 10 cm (2 to 4 inches) above the wound, at least 2.5 cm (1 inch) above any joint. - Tighten until bleeding stops. - Document the time applied. **Internal bleeding:** Signs: Bruising, swelling, hardness in the injured area; blood in saliva or vomit; severe thirst; nausea. Call EMS/9-1-1. Keep the child still and do not give anything to drink — not even water.

    Life-Threatening Bleeding

    **External bleeding (visible wound):** **Call:** Apply direct pressure immediately, then call EMS/9-1-1. **Care:** 1. Apply firm, direct pressure to the wound using a clean dressing. 2. Bandage the dressing in place while maintaining pressure. 3. If blood soaks through, apply a second dressing on top — do not remove the first. 4. Check circulation below the injury before and after bandaging. If circulation is reduced, loosen the bandage. **Internal bleeding (no visible wound):** **Signs:** Bruising and pain in the injured area, soft tissue that is swollen or hard, blood in saliva or vomit, severe thirst, nausea, anxiety. **Call:** Call EMS/9-1-1 and get an AED. **Care:** Have the person rest quietly. Do not give anything to drink even if they are very thirsty — fluids by mouth can cause serious complications with internal bleeding.

    Diabetic Emergencies in Children

    A diabetic emergency in a child happens when blood sugar is too low (hypoglycemia) or too high. Low blood sugar develops faster and is more commonly encountered. **Signs:** Changes in responsiveness, confusion or aggression, rapid breathing, cool sweaty skin, seizures. **Call EMS/9-1-1 if the child is not fully awake, has a seizure, or does not improve within 10 minutes of receiving sugar.** **Care:** 1. If the child is awake and can swallow safely, give sugar. Preferred: oral glucose tablets, chewable candy, fruit juice, milk. 2. Do not give insulin. 3. If no improvement within 10 minutes, call EMS/9-1-1. Always follow the child's personal diabetes care plan if one is provided by their parent or guardian.

    Choking — Babies Under 1 Year

    **Call:** Begin care immediately. Have a bystander call EMS/9-1-1 as soon as possible. **Care:** 1. Hold the baby face-down along your forearm, supporting the jaw with your hand and keeping the mouth clear. 2. Deliver 5 firm back blows between the shoulder blades. 3. Turn the baby face-up, supporting the head. 4. Place 2 fingers in the centre of the chest and deliver 5 firm chest compressions. 5. Repeat back blows and chest compressions until the object comes out or the baby begins to breathe normally or cry. 6. If the baby becomes unresponsive, call EMS/9-1-1 and begin CPR starting with chest compressions.

    CPR for Children and Babies

    **When to use CPR:** CPR is performed when a child or baby is unresponsive and not breathing normally. **If alone with a child or baby:** Do 5 cycles (approximately 2 minutes) of CPR first, then take the child with you to call EMS/9-1-1 and get an AED. For adults, you call first — the sequence is reversed for children because respiratory causes (choking, drowning) are more common than cardiac causes in this age group. **Child CPR technique (1 year to puberty):** 1. Place 1 or 2 hands in the centre of the child's chest. 2. Push deeply and steadily — at least one-third the depth of the chest — at 100 to 120 compressions per minute (30 compressions in about 15 to 18 seconds). 3. After 30 compressions, open the airway (head-tilt/chin-lift), place a barrier device over the mouth and nose, and give 2 gentle rescue breaths — just enough to make the chest start to rise. 4. Repeat the cycle of 30 compressions and 2 breaths. **Baby CPR technique (under 1 year):** 1. Place 2 fingers in the centre of the chest (just below the nipple line), OR wrap both hands around the baby with both thumbs on the middle of the chest. 2. Push deeply and steadily — at least one-third the depth of the chest — at 100 to 120 compressions per minute. 3. After 30 compressions, open the airway, place a barrier device over the baby's mouth and nose, and give 2 very gentle breaths — just enough to see the chest start to rise. 4. Repeat. **Compression-only CPR** is acceptable if you are unwilling or unable to give rescue breaths, but traditional CPR with breaths is the recommended method for children and babies.

    Environmental Illness in Children

    **Heat exhaustion:** Signs: Moist, warm skin; headache; weakness; nausea; fainting; dizziness. Care: Move to a cool area. Remove excess clothing. Apply wet cloths and fan, or apply ice packs to armpits and chest. Give a cool drink if alert. Call EMS/9-1-1 if vomiting, dizziness, or change in responsiveness. **Heat stroke (life-threatening):** Signs: Hot, dry skin; unresponsiveness; seizures; severe headache; rapid shallow breathing; confusion or aggressive behaviour. Call EMS/9-1-1 immediately. Cool aggressively: immerse forearms in cool water, apply wet cloths and fan, or apply ice packs. **Frostbite:** Superficial (pale, hardened skin, pain and numbness) or deep (solid, white/blue/black skin, no sensation). Care: Remove restrictive clothing. Thaw only if refreezing is not possible. Use warm water or body heat. Cover with loose dry dressings. Never rub frostbitten skin. Monitor for hypothermia. **Hypothermia:** Ranges from cold stress and shivering (mild) to unresponsiveness and abnormal breathing (severe). Remove wet clothing. Warm from the core. Give warm fluids only if fully alert. Call EMS/9-1-1 for moderate to severe hypothermia.

    Heart Attack — Signs and First Aid Response

    A heart attack occurs when the heart cannot get enough oxygen due to a blockage in one of the coronary arteries. **Classic signs:** - Pain, pressure, tightness, or heaviness in the chest - Pain radiating to the arm(s), shoulder(s), back, jaw, or neck **Other signs:** - Shortness of breath - Nausea or vomiting - Cool, sweaty skin - Skin, lips, or fingers that appear an unusual colour - Anxiety or feelings of impending doom - Unresponsiveness **Soft signs (less obvious but still serious):** - Mild, unfocused chest discomfort - Extreme fatigue - Flu-like symptoms - Gastric discomfort, dizziness, or light-headedness **Call:** Call EMS/9-1-1 and get an AED immediately. **Care:** 1. Have the person rest quietly in a comfortable position. 2. If the person is not allergic and can swallow: have them chew 1 regular-strength or 2 low-dose ASA (acetylsalicylic acid / Aspirin) tablets. 3. Monitor continuously until EMS arrives. Note: Acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil) do not have the same effect as ASA for heart attacks. Do not substitute.

    Checking ABCs — Airway, Breathing, Circulation

    **A — Airway** Check that the person has an open airway. If they are speaking, moaning, or crying, the airway is open. For an unresponsive person, perform a head-tilt/chin-lift: gently tilt the head back until the chin points upward. **B — Breathing** Check for normal breathing for 5 to 10 seconds. Look for the chest rising and falling in a normal, regular pattern. Note: occasional gasping (agonal respiration) is a reflex, not normal breathing — treat the person as if they are not breathing. **C — Circulation** Quickly scan the person from head to toe for signs of life-threatening bleeding. Unresponsiveness, abnormal breathing, and life-threatening bleeding are all life-threatening emergencies requiring immediate action. Get an AED and first aid kit if available.

    How to Use an AED

    An AED (automated external defibrillator) can restore a normal heart rhythm in some people in cardiac arrest. Use an AED any time you perform CPR. **Key precautions:** - Remove the person from water before using an AED. It is safe to use on ice or snow. - Place pads at least 2.5 cm (1 inch) away from a pacemaker. - Use appropriate pad size: adult, child, or baby. If pads are too large to fit without overlapping on a small chest, place one pad on the chest and one on the back. **Steps:** 1. Open and turn on the AED. 2. Apply the pads: remove clothing and medical patches, dry the chest if wet, and place pads as directed by the AED diagram. 3. Follow all automated voice and visual prompts. 4. When the AED advises a shock: ensure no one is touching the person, then deliver the shock. 5. Immediately resume CPR starting with compressions after the shock. Continue following AED prompts and alternating CPR with AED analysis until EMS arrives.

    What courses do you offer?

    Metro Safety Training offers a full range of first-aid and workplace safety courses including Basic First Aid (BFA), Intermediate First Aid (IFA), Advanced First Aid (AFA), OFA Level 1/2/3, CPR & AED, and blended learning options. We serve Metro Vancouver including Vancouver, Burnaby, Coquitlam, Surrey, and Richmond.

    Where are your training locations?

    We have training centres across Metro Vancouver: Vancouver, Burnaby, Coquitlam, Surrey, and Richmond. Visit our course calendar at metroconnect.online/course-calendar to see which locations have upcoming dates.

    How long do certifications last?

    Most first-aid certifications are valid for 3 years. CPR/AED certifications are valid for 1 year. WorkSafeBC (WSBC) OFA certificates follow WorkSafeBC's renewal guidelines. We recommend checking your specific course certificate for the exact expiry date.

    Do you offer group or corporate training?

    Yes! We offer group and on-site training for businesses and organizations. Corporate rates are available for groups of 5 or more. Contact us for a custom quote — our team will tailor a program for your workplace needs.

    What should I bring to class?

    Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing as courses involve hands-on practice. Bring a government-issued photo ID, your confirmation email, and a water bottle. All training materials and equipment are provided.

    Forklift Training Location and Format

    - **Location:** 914 Sherwood Ave, Coquitlam, BC V3K 1A6 - Near Braid SkyTrain Station - Free parking available on site - **Format:** Hybrid — classroom theory + hands-on practical on a real forklift - **Class size:** Small groups to allow adequate practical time for each participant

    Our Locations

    Metro Safety operates at three Metro Vancouver locations: - **Vancouver** — serving the City of Vancouver and surrounding areas - **Burnaby** — centrally located, convenient for Burnaby, New Westminster, and East Vancouver - **Coquitlam** — serving Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody, and the Tri-Cities All locations offer the same course catalog. Check our course calendar to see available dates at each location. If none of the scheduled dates work for your team, contact us about private on-site training.

    Where and When Are IFA Courses Held?

    Metro Safety offers Intermediate First Aid at three Metro Vancouver locations: - **Vancouver** - **Burnaby** - **Coquitlam** Check our course calendar for available dates. IFA runs over two consecutive days. If you need a private group session or a date not shown, contact us.

    Where and When Is the Transportation Endorsement Offered?

    Metro Safety offers the Transportation Endorsement at our Metro Vancouver locations. Contact us for current scheduling, as TE courses are offered less frequently than BFA and IFA. Private on-site delivery may also be available for remote worksite employers who need to train multiple attendants at their location. Contact us to discuss.

    Employer Obligations — Keeping Staff Certificates Current

    Under the WorkSafeBC OHS Regulation, the employer (not the employee) is responsible for ensuring that a valid designated first aid attendant is on site at all times during work hours. **Employer checklist:** - Maintain a record of all designated first aid attendants' certificate expiry dates. - Schedule renewal training well before expiry — at least 6 to 8 weeks for BFA and IFA, 3 to 6 months for AFA. - Ensure there is no gap between the end of one shift attendant's validity and the start of the next. - For multi-shift operations, each shift needs its own attendant — one certificate does not cover multiple shifts. - Keep physical or digital copies of current certificates accessible at the worksite. **WorkSafeBC can request to see certificates during an inspection.** "The renewal is booked" is not an acceptable substitute for a current, valid certificate.

    Out-of-Province and Other-Program Certificates — BC Recognition

    **WorkSafeBC only recognizes occupational first aid certificates issued by WorkSafeBC-authorized training agencies** operating under the BC OHS Regulation framework. Certificates from other provinces' workers' compensation boards (Alberta, Ontario, Manitoba, etc.) are generally not accepted for BC workplace compliance. **Red Cross, St. John Ambulance, and Heart & Stroke certificates** are not recognized as WorkSafeBC occupational first aid certificates regardless of their validity or level. A current Red Cross Standard First Aid certificate does not satisfy the requirement for a designated BFA, IFA, or AFA attendant in a BC workplace. **Federal workplaces in BC** (banks, airlines, telecommunications, rail) are regulated under federal OHS legislation (Canada Labour Code Part II), not provincial WorkSafeBC regulation. These employers may accept Red Cross or other certifications — check with your federal employer for their specific requirements. If you have recently moved to BC from another province and hold an out-of-province occupational first aid certificate, contact WorkSafeBC directly to confirm whether it is accepted. In most cases, you will need to complete BFA, IFA, or AFA through a WorkSafeBC-authorized agency to meet BC requirements.

    Cancellations and Rescheduling

    If you need to cancel or reschedule your registration, please contact us as soon as possible. Our full cancellation and rescheduling policy is included in your registration confirmation. We recommend giving at least 48 hours notice where possible so we can offer your seat to another student. For group bookings, please contact us directly to discuss any last-minute changes.

    How Do I Request a Change to My Registration?

    Email **info@metrosafety.ca** with your name, course date, and the change you are requesting. Metro Safety will review and respond regarding eligibility under the policy. All requests for transfers, credits, or cancellations must be made by email. Phone requests are not documented and are not sufficient — always email.

    Does a First Aid Certificate From Another Province Apply in BC?

    WorkSafeBC requires that first aid attendants in BC hold a WorkSafeBC-compliant certificate issued through a WorkSafeBC-authorized training agency. Certificates from other provinces or national programs (such as Red Cross or St. John Ambulance) generally do not satisfy the occupational first aid requirements under BC's OHS Regulation. If you have a certificate from another province or program, contact WorkSafeBC directly to confirm whether it satisfies your workplace requirement. Metro Safety can issue BC-compliant BFA, IFA, and AFA certificates through the WorkSafeBC Certification Services system.

    WorkSafeBC First Aid Kit Requirements

    The first aid kit requirement is separate from the attendant certification requirement. Schedule 3-A specifies which kit type is required based on the same workplace class and hazard rating criteria. Kit types referenced in Schedule 3-A: - **Personal first aid kit** — minimum kit for lone workers in low hazard settings - **Basic first aid kit** — standard kit for small workplaces - **Intermediate first aid kit** — required for larger or higher-hazard workplaces - **Advanced first aid kit** — required for workplaces needing an Advanced first aid attendant WorkSafeBC publishes the specific contents required for each kit type. The employer is responsible for maintaining a stocked, accessible, and inspected kit at all times. Metro Safety can advise on kit requirements but does not sell first aid kits directly. Contact WorkSafeBC or a WorkSafeBC-approved supplier for kit procurement.

    Legal Issues Around First Aid in Canada

    **Getting permission (consent):** - Always get permission before giving care to a responsive adult. - For an unresponsive person, the law assumes consent — provide care. - For a young child without a caregiver present, provide care. - If a responsive person refuses care, call EMS/9-1-1 and do not force assistance. **Duty to act:** - If you are employed as a workplace first aid attendant, you have a legal duty to act. - Civilian first aiders who choose to help are generally protected by Good Samaritan legislation across Canadian provinces, as long as they act in good faith and within their training. **Duty to report child abuse or neglect:** Every adult in Canada has a legal duty to report child abuse or neglect, even when not confirmed. Report to child protection services and/or police. **Limits of care:** Give only the care you were trained to provide. Continue care until another trained person takes over, you are too exhausted, the scene becomes unsafe, or the person's condition improves.

    TDG — Federal Regulation (Transport Canada)

    TDG is unique among Metro Safety's course offerings because it is governed by **Transport Canada** and the federal **Transportation of Dangerous Goods Act (TDGA)** — not by WorkSafeBC or the BC OHS Regulation. Key implications: - TDG certification is required for workers in **all Canadian provinces and territories** — it is a national requirement, not a BC-specific one - TDG certificates issued through Metro Safety are **accepted across all 13 provinces and territories** - WorkSafeBC does not administer, enforce, or recognize TDG as part of the provincial OHS Regulation — this is a completely separate regulatory obligation - Federal workplaces (airlines, banks, rail, telecommunications) and provincial workplaces alike may require TDG if their operations involve dangerous goods transport **TDG vs WHMIS:** TDG governs the **transportation** of dangerous goods. WHMIS (Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System) governs the **use and handling** of hazardous materials within the workplace. They are separate but complementary regulatory systems. Many workers in chemical-adjacent industries need both.

    Metro Safety Cancellation Policy — Overview

    Metro Safety Training invests significant resources to secure each student's seat — including instructor allocation, facility booking, and third-party licensing fees. As a result, all course registrations are subject to a strict cancellation and credit policy. **The core rule is: all sales are final. All course registrations are non-refundable.** Credits (valid for 12 months) are the primary form of resolution. Refunds are only issued when Metro Safety cancels a course, or where required by applicable law. To request any change to a registration, email **info@metrosafety.ca**.

    Can I Get a Refund?

    In most cases, **no**. Metro Safety's policy is that all sales are final and all registrations are non-refundable. This applies to all course types, durations, and payment amounts. **Refunds are only issued in two situations:** 1. Metro Safety cancels the course — in this case you may choose a full credit or a full refund 2. Legally required circumstances — such as a death in the immediate family or another legally protected circumstance (must be submitted in writing with documentation, reviewed case by case) No refunds are issued for: change of mind, scheduling conflicts, personal circumstances, illness (a credit may be offered instead), or unsuccessful completion.

    Can I Transfer or Reschedule My Course?

    Transfers are **not guaranteed** and are subject to approval. If approved, a transfer fee applies and only **one transfer per registration** is permitted. **Advance notice required to request a transfer:** | Course Length | Minimum Notice Required | |---|---| | 1–2 day courses | 72 hours before the start | | 3–5 day courses | 5 business days before the start | | 6+ day courses | 10 business days before the start | **Transfer fee (if approved):** 25% of the course price, minimum $50, maximum $250 + tax. If you contact Metro Safety inside the required notice window, no credit, transfer, or refund will be issued.

    What Happens If I Miss the Course (No-Show)?

    If you fail to attend without giving advance notice: - No refund, credit, or transfer is permitted - The full course fee is forfeited If you arrive late and are refused entry due to certification requirements: - You are treated as a no-show - No refund or credit is issued

    What Happens If I'm Sick or Have an Emergency?

    You must notify Metro Safety **before the course start time**. If you contact Metro Safety before the course begins due to illness or emergency: - A **credit** may be issued at Metro Safety's discretion (no refunds) - Documentation may be required - The credit is valid for 12 months - Approval is not guaranteed — it is at Metro Safety's sole discretion

    What Is a Course Credit and How Does It Work?

    When a credit is issued (in place of a refund): - Valid for **12 calendar months** from the original purchase date - **Non-transferable** unless approved in writing by Metro Safety - No cash value — cannot be redeemed for cash - Can be applied toward a future course booking within the validity period

    What Is the Policy for Blended or Online Courses?

    For courses with online components, pre-course modules, or third-party delivery: - **No refunds or transfers are permitted under any circumstances**, except where required by law - If you are unable to attend, a non-refundable credit **may** be issued at Metro Safety's discretion - The credit is valid for 12 months from purchase date This applies to: blended Standard First Aid, CSTS, TDG, and any other course with an online or third-party component.

    What If I Don't Pass the Course?

    If you do not successfully complete a course, you may re-enroll at **50% of the course price** (maximum $500 + tax). This option is valid for **6 months** from the original course date. Further re-enrolment attempts require full payment.

    What Is the Policy for Group Bookings?

    All group bookings are: - Final sale — non-refundable - Non-transferable unless approved in writing by Metro Safety

    What Is the Policy for Multi-Day Course Deposits?

    Deposits paid for multi-day courses are: - Non-refundable - May be held as a credit for 12 months - Not redeemable for cash

    What Happens If Metro Safety Cancels My Course?

    If Metro Safety cancels a scheduled course, you may choose either: - A **full credit** (valid 12 months), or - A **full refund** This is the only standard situation where a refund is available.

    Confined Space Training Pricing and Scheduling

    | Course | Price | Duration | |---|---|---| | Confined Space Safety for Entrants and Monitors | $158 | 5 hours | | Confined Space Standby Person | $125 | 4 hours | - **Location:** 914 Sherwood Ave, Coquitlam, BC V3K 1A6 - **Format:** In-person, instructor-led with practical gas detector exercises - **Prerequisites:** None for either course; both can be taken independently - **What to bring:** Work-appropriate clothing; safety footwear; government-issued photo ID Multiple sessions available each month. Contact Metro Safety to confirm upcoming dates and register: **604-521-4227** or **info@metrosafety.ca**

    First Responder Training Pricing and Scheduling

    - **Price:** $699.99 plus GST - **Duration:** Approximately 40 hours over 5 consecutive days - **Format:** In-person, instructor-led with daily scenario exercises - **Location:** 914 Sherwood Ave, Coquitlam, BC V3K 1A6 - **Prerequisites:** Standard First Aid + CPR Level C recommended; minimum age 16 - **Group rates:** Available for organizations booking multiple participants — contact Metro Safety for group pricing Contact Metro Safety to confirm upcoming cohort dates and availability: **604-521-4227** or **info@metrosafety.ca** **Cancellation policy:** Contact Metro Safety at least 5 business days before the course start date. Late cancellations and no-shows may incur fees as per Metro Safety's standard cancellation policy.

    FoodSafe Level 1 Pricing and Locations

    - **Price:** $88.00 (taxes included) - **Duration:** 8 hours (one full day), including breaks and the final exam - **Format:** In-person classroom training - **Exam:** Included in the course fee **Metro Safety FoodSafe Locations:** - Coquitlam — 914 Sherwood Ave, Coquitlam, BC V3K 1A6 - Surrey - Vancouver - Richmond - New Westminster **Schedule:** Multiple dates available each month, including weekday and weekend sessions. Contact Metro Safety for current availability. **Prerequisites:** None — anyone working in or entering the food service industry can take FoodSafe Level 1. **What to bring:** Government-issued photo ID. No special clothing or equipment required. Contact Metro Safety to register or confirm upcoming dates: **604-521-4227** or **info@metrosafety.ca** **Cancellation policy:** Contact Metro Safety to confirm. Standard cancellation terms apply — at least 72 hours notice is recommended to avoid cancellation fees.

    CPR Level C Pricing and Scheduling

    - **Price:** $59.95 - **Duration:** 5 to 6 hours (blended: online theory component + in-person skills session) - **Format:** Blended — complete the online portion at your own pace before attending the in-class skills day - **Location:** 914 Sherwood Ave, Coquitlam, BC V3K 1A6 (and additional Metro Safety locations) - **Prerequisites:** None - **What to bring:** Comfortable clothing suitable for floor-based CPR practice; government-issued photo ID Contact Metro Safety to confirm upcoming dates and availability: **604-521-4227** or **info@metrosafety.ca**

    EFA Pricing and Scheduling

    - **Price:** $98.00 - **Duration:** Approximately 4.5 to 5 hours (half day) - **Format:** In-person, instructor-led - **Location:** 914 Sherwood Ave, Coquitlam, BC V3K 1A6 (and additional Metro Safety locations) - **Prerequisites:** None - **What to bring:** Comfortable clothing for floor-based skills practice; government-issued photo ID Contact Metro Safety to confirm upcoming dates and availability: **604-521-4227** or **info@metrosafety.ca** **Cancellation policy:** Contact Metro Safety at least 72 hours before the course start date. A 15% administration fee applies to cancellations. Late cancellations (inside 72 hours) may incur a fee of up to 50% of the course cost.

    How Much Does IFA Cost?

    Please contact us or visit our course calendar for current pricing. Group rates are available for 5 or more participants from the same employer. Private on-site training for teams is also available. Contact us for a custom quote if you need to train multiple staff members at your workplace.

    Fall Protection Training Pricing and Scheduling

    - **Price:** $128.00 - **Duration:** 6 to 8 hours (includes practical components) - **Format:** In-person, instructor-led with real-world examples and equipment practice - **Primary location:** 914 Sherwood Ave, Coquitlam, BC V3K 1A6 - **Additional campuses:** Surrey, Vancouver, Burnaby, Richmond - **Prerequisites:** None - **What to bring:** Safety boots; work clothing; government-issued photo ID **Upcoming sessions:** Multiple dates available each month across Metro Safety locations. Contact Metro Safety for the current schedule. Contact Metro Safety to register or confirm dates: **604-521-4227** or **info@metrosafety.ca** **Cancellation policy:** - 72+ hours notice: 15% administration fee applies - Inside 72 hours: Up to 50% non-refundable fee (maximum $250); one-time transfer permitted - No-shows: No refund or transfer - Medical illness: A doctor's note provided before the course start may allow a transfer - Metro Safety cancellation: Full refund or free reschedule

    PFA Pricing and Scheduling

    - **Price:** Contact Metro Safety — pricing is not posted publicly and may vary by format (group vs. individual, in-person vs. virtual) - **Duration:** Typically one day; short modular session format also available - **Format:** In-class (in-person) and virtual delivery options available - **Location:** 914 Sherwood Ave, Coquitlam, BC V3K 1A6; virtual sessions available remotely - **Prerequisites:** None - **Group training:** PFA is well-suited to group delivery — contact Metro Safety for corporate and team pricing **No publicly scheduled sessions are posted on the Metro Safety website.** PFA is primarily offered through custom group bookings. Contact Metro Safety to arrange a session: **604-521-4227** or **info@metrosafety.ca**

    Forklift Training Pricing and Scheduling

    - **Price:** $198.00 - **Duration:** One day, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM - **Format:** In-person only (forklift operation cannot be done online) - **Prerequisites:** None - **What to bring:** Steel-toed safety boots (required); government-issued photo ID; appropriate work clothing **Upcoming sessions:** Contact Metro Safety for the current schedule. Example upcoming dates: June 13 and June 20, 2026. Courses fill quickly — book early. Contact Metro Safety to register or confirm dates: **604-521-4227** or **info@metrosafety.ca** **Cancellation policy:** - 72+ hours notice: 15% administration fee applies - Inside 72 hours: Up to 50% non-refundable fee (maximum $250); one-time transfer permitted - No-shows: No refund or transfer

    CSTS Pricing and Registration

    - **Price:** Contact Metro Safety — pricing varies by provider and may depend on the number of participants and modules selected - **Duration:** 6 to 9 hours (self-paced; completed on your own schedule) - **Format:** Online, self-paced; no in-person session required - **Prerequisites:** None; basic computer skills and internet access needed - **Certificate:** CSTS certificate issued upon completion of all modules; no expiry Contact Metro Safety to register or get pricing information: **604-521-4227** or **info@metrosafety.ca**

    Group and Corporate Training

    Metro Safety offers group bookings and private on-site training for employers who need to certify multiple staff members. **Group rates:** Available for 5 or more participants registered together from the same employer. **Private on-site training:** We can bring training to your workplace location. This is a popular option for companies in industrial settings, remote sites, or those needing to minimize staff travel time. Contact us for pricing and availability. **Multi-date scheduling:** For large teams, we can arrange multiple course dates to accommodate shift rotations or staggered enrollment. To get a quote for group training, contact us directly with the course type needed, number of participants, preferred dates, and your location.

    CSO Training Pricing and Scheduling

    - **Price:** $1,600.00 — all taxes included - **Duration:** 10 business days (8:00 AM – 4:30 PM each day; approximately 85 hours of instruction) - **Format:** Instructor-led classroom and practical sessions - **Location:** Safety Central Burnaby — 8321 Willard St, Burnaby, BC (not Metro Safety's Coquitlam campus) - **Prerequisites:** None required; basic construction knowledge recommended - **What to bring:** Safety boots; work clothing; government-issued photo ID; note-taking materials **Scheduling:** Multiple cohorts run throughout the year — typically sessions begin in May, June, August, September, October, November, and December. Contact Metro Safety to confirm upcoming cohort dates and register: **604-521-4227** or **info@metrosafety.ca**

    Emergency Child Care First Aid Pricing and Scheduling

    - **Price:** $98.00 - **Duration:** 8 hours (one day; in-class or blended format available) - **Format:** In-person instructor-led, or blended (online theory + in-person skills) - **Location:** 914 Sherwood Ave, Coquitlam, BC V3K 1A6 (and additional Metro Safety locations) - **Prerequisites:** None - **What to bring:** Comfortable clothing for floor-based skills practice; government-issued photo ID Contact Metro Safety to confirm upcoming dates, format options, and availability: **604-521-4227** or **info@metrosafety.ca**

    EMR Bridge Course Pricing and Scheduling

    - **Price:** $1,198.00 - **Duration:** 40 to 60 hours; available as part-time weekend schedule (approximately 3 weekends) or intensive consecutive days - **Format:** In-person, instructor-led with clinical skills labs and scenario exercises - **Location:** 914 Sherwood Ave, Coquitlam, BC V3K 1A6 - **Prerequisites:** Valid or recently expired WorkSafeBC AFA / OFA Level 3 certificate (required) Contact Metro Safety to confirm the next available cohort and scheduling options: **604-521-4227** or **info@metrosafety.ca**

    How Much Does the Transportation Endorsement Cost?

    Please contact us or visit our course calendar for current pricing. Group rates may be available for employers sending multiple attendants. Contact us for a quote if you need to train multiple staff.

    TDG Training Pricing and Registration

    - **Price:** $44.95 CAD (taxes included); price range $44.95 to $54.95 depending on options selected - **Duration:** Approximately 2.5 hours (self-paced; complete at your own pace online) - **Format:** Fully online, self-paced; 7 modules with knowledge tests after each - **Access:** Register online through Metro Safety's website; immediate access upon registration - **Prerequisites:** None; basic computer literacy and internet access required - **What you need:** A computer, tablet, or smartphone with internet access; no in-person attendance required **TDG is Metro Safety's lowest-price course and the only one that is fully online and accessible immediately without attending a scheduled session.** Contact Metro Safety to register or for group pricing: **604-521-4227** or **info@metrosafety.ca** Alternatively, register directly through the Metro Safety website at **metrosafety.ca**

    Blended Standard First Aid Pricing and Scheduling

    - **Price:** $135.00 - **Duration:** Online component (2–4 hours at home) + in-person day (~7–8 hours) - **Format:** Blended — online pre-learning + in-person skills session - **Location:** 914 Sherwood Ave, Coquitlam, BC V3K 1A6 (and additional Metro Safety locations) - **Prerequisites:** None; online component access provided upon registration - **What to bring:** Comfortable clothing suitable for floor-based CPR and skills practice; government-issued photo ID Contact Metro Safety to confirm upcoming dates and availability: **604-521-4227** or **info@metrosafety.ca** **Cancellation policy:** Contact Metro Safety at least 72 hours before the in-person course start date. A 15% administration fee applies to cancellations. Late cancellations (inside 72 hours) may incur a fee of up to 50% of the course cost.

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