Training decisions should begin with your workplace's actual needs and the credential you must obtain. WSIB updated its Ontario First Aid Program on June 22, 2026. Emergency First Aid is now called Basic First Aid; Standard First Aid is now called Intermediate First Aid. Existing certificates issued before that date remain valid until expiry. The new names do not by themselves establish that any particular instructor or organization is authorized to issue recognized credentials.
1. Use the current programme names
When contacting training providers, ask for Basic or Intermediate First Aid based on the applicable workplace requirements. Match the programme level to staffing, operating conditions and employer obligations. If you already hold a valid older certificate, verify its expiry rather than assuming the name change invalidated it.
- Basic First Aid is the new name for Emergency First Aid
- Intermediate First Aid is the new name for Standard First Aid
- Check the certificate expiry and exact training level
2. Verify who is authorized to issue the certificate
WSIB says workplace first aid training must be delivered by an approved provider, or through an authorized affiliate. The approved provider must issue the recognized certificate even if an affiliate delivers the training. Before buying, confirm the provider on WSIB's official directory and verify any affiliate relationship through the approved provider.
3. Plan practical training, not just a web page
Recognized first aid programmes have delivery and assessment requirements. Do not assume that a course labelled online or blended will meet the requirements for workplace certification. Confirm the permitted format, practical skills demonstration and assessment with the issuing organization.
4. Prepare the group before scheduling
Collect operational facts: location, approximate learner count, shifts, accessibility and preferred timeframe. Confirm learner prerequisites, available equipment, certificate type, cancellation terms and renewal arrangements. These are sensible purchasing questions, not claims about a specific provider's current offering.
5. Keep internal completion records separate from provider credentials
Praetorian LifeReady uses the company brand for its own learning records. Ryan Durkin is the designated company course signing official for Praetorian-issued records. An internal attendance or completion record does not replace a WSIB-approved first aid certificate, and provider-issued credentials follow the provider's actual authorization rules.
A PRACTICAL NEXT STEP
Before making a training commitment, verify the relevant approved provider, current programme level, hands-on requirements, certificate issuer and total group cost. LifeReady can discuss readiness and group-training needs without claiming unverified accreditation.
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Sources and further reading
These are the reference materials used to ground relevant factual statements. They do not constitute an endorsement or affiliation.
General information only. This guide does not replace site-specific assessment, medical instruction, an approved training programme, professional legal advice or an employer's duties.