Which First Aid Course Should I Take?

Choosing the right first aid course can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re training for work, school, or personal reasons, this guide will help you determine which certification is right for you.

Quick Answer: How to Decide

Which Course Fits Your Role?

Not all first aid courses are the same, and the names can be a little confusing. Find the group that matches you best and see which certification you’ll need.

Most Workers & Students

The standard course most employers and colleges expect.

  • Recommended: Standard First Aid with CPR-C

  • Duration: 2 days

  • Certification: 3 years

  • WSIB-approved: Yes

  • Best for: Offices, trades, schools, customer service, general employment programs

Basic Workplace Needs

A shorter option if your workplace only requires basic coverage.

  • Recommended: Emergency First Aid with CPR C

  • Duration: 1 day

  • Certification: 3 years

  • WSIB-approved: Yes

  • Best for: Retail, small offices, entry-level compliance

General Public


For people who only need CPR and AED skills without full first aid training.

  • Recommended: CPR/AED Level C

  • Duration: 4–6 hours

  • Certification: 3 years

  • WSIB-approved: Yes

  • Best for: Fitness trainers, security guards, lifeguards, caregivers, parents

Healthcare Professionals

  • For healthcare workers and students who need advanced CPR skills:

    • Recommended: CPR BLS (Basic Life Support)

    • Duration: 4–6 hours

    • Certification: 1 year

    • WSIB-approved: Yes

    • Best for: Nurses, PSWs, paramedics, doctors, medical & nursing students

  • If your employer, school, or clinical program requires full first aid coverage (common in healthcare and education):

    • Recommended: Standard First Aid with BLS — combines the comprehensive 2-day training with healthcare-level CPR.

    • Duration: 2.5 days

    • Certification: 3 years (Standard First Aid), 1 year (BLS)

Which Course Do Employers Require?

Not sure? Ask your employer, check WSIB’s first aid requirements, or reach out to us — we’ll confirm what’s needed.

Course Overview

  • Standard First Aid – WSIB-approved 2-day course covering CPR, AED, and a wide range of medical emergencies.

    • Best for: Most workplaces, post-secondary programs, construction/industrial roles.

    • Includes: Adult/child/infant CPR (Level C or BLS), AED use, medical emergencies, bleeding, fractures, environmental risks.

    • Format: 2 full days; hands-on practice; Canadian Red Cross certificate.

    • Validity: 3 years (BLS component valid 1 year).

    • WSIB-approved: Yes.

    • Good to know: Choose CPR Level C for general roles, BLS if you’re in healthcare.

  • Emergency First Aid – 1-day WSIB-approved course covering CPR/AED and life-threatening emergencies.

    • Best for: Workplaces needing basic first aid coverage only.

    • Includes: Adult/child/infant CPR (Level C), AED use, recognition and response to life-threatening emergencies.

    • Format: 1 day; practical scenarios; Canadian Red Cross certificate.

    • Validity: 3 years.

    • WSIB-approved: Yes.

    • Good to know: If your employer or program expects broader coverage, choose Standard First Aid instead.

  • CPR/AED – Short, skills-focused CPR and AED training (Level C for public, BLS for healthcare).

    • Best for: Individuals who only need CPR; healthcare workers (BLS).

    • Levels:

      • CPR Level C: Adults, children, and infants (general public).

      • BLS: Team-based, healthcare-level CPR skills.

    • Format: ~4–6 hours; hands-on practice; Canadian Red Cross certificate.

    • Validity: CPR Level C: 3 years; BLS: 1 year.

    • WSIB-approved: Yes (role-dependent; confirm with your employer if unsure).

    • Good to know: If your workplace needs full first aid coverage, pick Standard or Emergency First Aid instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Standard First Aid better than Emergency First Aid?
Yes. Standard First Aid is more comprehensive and accepted in more workplaces. Emergency First Aid is shorter but only valid in some settings.

Does CPR training expire?
Yes. CPR Level C and Standard/Emergency First Aid certifications are valid for 3 years. BLS certifications are valid for 1 year.

Can I take a recertification course?
Yes, if your current certification is still valid and from the Canadian Red Cross.

What if my workplace needs group training?
We offer onsite and private group training across Durham Region for groups with a minimum of 8 participants.

Why Choose Ally First Aid?

Red Cross Certified Curriculum

Course content developed by an international leader in emergency response.

WSIB-Approved
Courses

Compliant with Ontario workplace safety regulations.

Flexible Learning Options

Hybrid and in-person courses are designed to fit your busy lifestyle and meet your learning needs.

Corporate & Group Training Available

For groups of 8 or more; at your location and according to your schedule.

Convenient Oshawa Centre Location

Refresh your knowledge and recertify before your course expires to save time.

Engaging Course Instructors

Stay connected throughout the day by learning from instructors who know how to keep classes engaging and fun.

Still not sure?

Contact us; we’ll help you find the course you need.

Ready to go?

Book your spot now!