Occupational First Aid Basic (Formerly OFA 1)

Occupational First Aid (OFA) training in BC is a program that provides workers with the knowledge and skills to respond to workplace emergencies and injuries. It covers topics such as CPR, choking, bleeding control, and other medical emergencies. The training is tailored to meet the requirements of different workplaces and industries, with three levels of training available depending on the level of risk associated with a particular workplace. WorkSafeBC is the government agency responsible for administering the program in British Columbia.

OFA Level 1 and Level 2 are different levels of workplace first aid training in BC. OFA Level 1 is a basic course designed for low-risk workplaces and covers topics such as CPR and bleeding control. OFA Level 2 is an intermediate course that builds upon the skills and knowledge learned in Level 1, and is designed for higher-risk workplaces and covers more advanced topics such as spinal injuries and burns. OFA Level 2 training takes longer to complete and is required for workplaces with higher risk or larger numbers of employees.  Note: you do not require OFA Level 1 before taking an OFA Level 2 course.

With OFA Level 1 certification in  BC, you can work in a variety of low-risk workplaces that require basic first aid knowledge and skills, such as offices, retail stores, and restaurants. Specific job titles that may require OFA Level 1 certification include receptionists, office administrators, retail sales associates, and food service workers. However, specific requirements may vary depending on the employer and province, so it’s important to check local regulations and guidelines.

OFA Level 1 and CPR  are not equivalent certifications. OFA Level 1 covers basic first aid training beyond CPR, while CPR focuses solely on CPR techniques and the use of an AED. While OFA Level 1 training includes Level A CPR with AED training (adult only), they are not interchangeable, and which one to choose depends on your specific needs.  CPR on its own does not qualify you to serve as a workplace first aid attendant.

Having an Occupational First Aid (OFA) Level 1 certification in BC can benefit your career in several ways.  First, by demonstrating basic first aid knowledge and making you a competitive candidate for job opportunities where first aid is required. It can also enhance your personal and professional development and potentially open up opportunities for higher levels of first aid training.