A safety coordinator at a mid-sized warehouse called us in a bit of a panic recently. Their annual WSIB audit was two weeks out, and half the team’s certificates said ‘Emergency First’; a name that did not match anything on the current course listings. Had the team quietly fallen out of compliance overnight?
They hadn’t. Emergency First Aid didn’t disappear. It was renamed Basic (Emergency) First Aid with CPR AED Level. It is still the same WSIB-approved course. Here is what that actually means for the certificate currently in your file.
Emergency First Aid Is Now Basic (Emergency) First Aid with CPR AED Level C
On June 22, 2026, Ontario’s WSIB First Aid Program was updated to align with the national CSA Z1210:24 standard. Emergency First Aid became Basic (Emergency) First Aid with CPR AED Level C.
Standard First Aid was also renamed Intermediate (Standard) First Aid with CPR AED Level C. But that is a different course level covering a broader scope and different workplace requirements. The change discussed here applies to the former Emergency First Aid course.
The change is in the name, not the core certification requirements. The course continues to cover the same essential skills, uses recognized certifying bodies, includes hands-on assessment, and carries a three-year certification period. The updated name now appears on the course materials and certificate.
What’s Actually in a Basic (Emergency) First Aid with CPR AED Level C Course?
Basic (Emergency) First Aid with CPR AED Level C is designed for lower-hazard workplaces such as retail stores, small offices, and hospitality settings where a more comprehensive first aid program may not be required.
The course covers the essential skills employees may need to respond to a workplace emergency, including primary assessment, adult CPR and AED use, choking response, bleeding control, shock, burns, and common workplace injuries.
CPR AED Level C is included as part of the course, so there is no need to book a separate CPR certification. First aid and CPR training are completed in the same session and included on the same certificate. The training also includes hands-on practice and a practical skills assessment.
Your Certificate’s Expiry Date Stays the Same
The 2026 name change does not affect the validity of certificates issued under the former Emergency First Aid name.
- Existing certificates remain valid: Your certificate stays valid until its original expiry date.
- No replacement is needed: You do not need to replace a certificate simply because the course now has a different name.
- The expiry date does not change: For example, a certificate issued in early 2024 with an expiry date in 2027 remains valid through that date.
- Check your certificate details: Make sure it remains within its valid period and was issued by a recognized certifying body.
Due for renewal soon, or not sure? Ask Heart Starters Inc. for a quick certification check.
Booking Your Next Basic First Aid Session
When your certificate is approaching its expiry date, confirm a few details before booking:
- The updated course name: Basic (Emergency) First Aid with CPR AED Level C, so you know you’re booking the updated program.
- The required certification level: Workplace requirements can vary based on factors such as the number of employees working per shift and the workplace hazard level.
- The certifying body: Confirm that the provider uses a recognized certifying body and that the resulting certificate can be independently verified.
If your previous certification was Emergency First Aid, the updated course name is Basic (Emergency) First Aid with CPR AED Level C. The name has changed as part of the 2026 program update, while existing certificates remain valid through their original expiry dates.
FAQs
Is my Emergency First Aid certificate still valid?
Yes. Your certificate remains valid through its original expiry date. The 2026 change from Emergency First Aid to Basic First Aid does not affect the validity of certificates issued under the former name.
Is Basic First Aid with CPR AED Level C a new or different course from Emergency First Aid?
Basic (Emergency) First Aid with CPR AED Level C is the updated course name for what was formerly called Emergency First Aid.
Will my employer accept a certificate that still says “Emergency First Aid”?
An existing Emergency First Aid certificate remains valid through its original expiry date. The updated course name applies when new or renewed certification is issued.
Do I need to retrain immediately because of the name change?
No. If your existing certificate is still valid, you do not need to retrain solely because the course name has changed. When your certificate reaches its expiry date, you can renew under the current course name.
Is CPR included in Basic First Aid with CPR AED Level C, or is that separate?
It is included. CPR AED Level C forms part of the Basic First Aid course, so first aid and CPR training are completed together and appear on the same certificate.
Ready to Book Your Basic First Aid Session?
Need to renew an Emergency First Aid certificate or train your team? Heart Starters Inc. provides WSIB-approved Basic (Emergency) First Aid with CPR AED Level C training on-site for groups of 10 or more. Contact us today to book your session.