Which Course is Right for You?
If you require a first aid course needs to meet WCB requirements, please refer to the Health and Safety Regulations (Part 3) available at the WCB WorkSafeBC website at www.worksafebc.com; click on 'Safety at Work', then under the heading 'Topics' click on 'First Aid'. The detailed information provided here will assist you in determining first aid requirements pertinent to your workplace. All WCB courses offered through NIC are listed as Occupational First Aid (OFA) courses. Many of the first aid course prerequisite/corequisite(s) listed for NIC trades, technical and tourism programs will be listed as OFA courses.
If the course you require for your place of employment does not need to meet WCB specifications, then a first aid and/or cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) course may be appropriate. You should first check with your place of employment to determine their expectations. For example, if you work in the day care field, the Day Care Licensing Board should be able to advise you. First aid courses offered through NIC as FAC courses and CPR courses are listed as HRT courses. Many of the first aid course prerequisite/corequisite(s) listed for NIC health and human services programs and marine training will be listed as FAC courses.
If you are interested in working with the British Columbia Ambulance Service, or would like a higher level of training than OFA Level 3, we offer AET 020 Emergency Medical Responder.
If you are looking for a course to take for your own general interest and knowledge, a basic first aid course with CPR such as FAC 010 or FAC 020 may be appropriate. Should you feel these courses cover more than you are looking for, then one of our CPR courses, such as HRT 010 may meet your needs. If you have had some previous first aid training, or want a higher level of training, then FAC 021 may be suitable. If you like to hike, fish, mountain bike, or hunt, consider a wilderness first aid training course such as FAC 030.
If you need more help to determine an appropriate course, please contact your local campus or learning centre for assistance in making the choice most suitable for your needs.
Note: All first aid and CPR courses include signs, symptoms, and action required for critically ill persons; accessing the Emergency Medical System; breathing and circulatory emergencies; and treatment for conscious and unconscious choking persons. All CPR courses meet the Canadian Heart Foundation Standards.