Whether you're starting a new job, renewing your credentials, or just wondering if you're required to have first aid training, this guide breaks down Alberta's workplace first aid requirements so you know exactly where you stand.
Alberta OHS Regulations and First Aid Requirements
Under Alberta's Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Code, most employers are required to have a minimum number of trained first aiders on site at all times. The specific requirements depend on:
- The hazard level of the workplace (low, medium, or high hazard)
- The number of workers on site at any given time
- The distance to the nearest medical facility
This means that even if your job title doesn't include "first aider," your employer may designate you as the required first aider for your shift or worksite.
Which Certificate Do Alberta Workplaces Require?
Alberta OHS regulations generally recognize two levels of workplace first aid certification:
- Basic / Emergency First Aid Level C — typically required for lower-hazard workplaces or smaller teams
- Intermediate / Standard First Aid Level C — required for higher-hazard workplaces, larger teams, or worksites farther from medical facilities
Both must include CPR Level C (covering adults, children, and infants) and AED training.
Industries and Roles That Commonly Require First Aid Certification
While requirements vary by employer and worksite, first aid certification is commonly required or strongly recommended in:
- Construction and trades
- Oil, gas, and energy
- Healthcare and long-term care
- Education and childcare
- Retail and hospitality (for designated first aiders)
- Fitness and recreation
- Transportation and logistics
- Security services
What About Healthcare Professionals?
If you work in a clinical setting — as a nurse, paramedic, dental hygienist, or other healthcare provider — your employer or licensing body may require a BLS (Basic Life Support) Provider certification from the Heart & Stroke Foundation rather than a standard workplace first aid certificate. Check with your employer or regulatory college for their specific requirements.
How Often Do You Need to Recertify?
- Intermediate / Standard and Basic / Emergency First Aid Level C — valid for 3 years, then recertification required
- CPR/AED Level C — valid for 1 year
- BLS Provider — valid for 1 year
Your employer is responsible for ensuring designated first aiders hold a current, valid certificate. Don't let yours lapse — an expired certificate may put you and your employer out of compliance.
Get Certified at Swoop911.ca First Aid Education in South Edmonton
We offer Red Cross-certified blended courses that combine online learning with hands-on in-class training:
- Intermediate / Standard First Aid Level C (Blended) — the most comprehensive workplace certification
- Basic / Emergency First Aid Level C (Blended) — essential life-saving skills for lower-hazard workplaces
- Red Cross CPR/AED Level C (Blended) — standalone CPR certification
- BLS Provider Course (Blended) — for healthcare professionals
Not sure which course your workplace requires? Contact Swoop911 and we'll help you figure it out.