WorkSafeBC Advanced First Aid
Formerly OFA 3
Search:
| Event | Venue | Date | |
|---|---|---|---|
| WorkSafeBC Advanced First Aid (Formerly OFA3) | Vancouver Island Office – 605 Discovery Street |
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Register |
| WorkSafeBC Advanced First Aid (Formerly OFA3) | Vancouver Island Office – 605 Discovery Street |
|
Register |
| WorkSafeBC Advanced First Aid (Formerly OFA3) | Vancouver Island Office – 605 Discovery Street |
|
Register |
| WorkSafeBC Advanced First Aid (Formerly OFA3) | Vancouver Island Office – 605 Discovery Street |
|
Register |
What is Advanced First Aid?
Advanced First Aid (formerly known as OFA L3) is a 80 hour (10 day) program designed to provide the first aid attendant with the skills to function as part of an effective first aid program in the work place.
This course is intended for individuals who work in medium to high risk industries and are greater than 30 minutes surface time to a hospital. To find what your company may require for first aid attendants and supplies click here.
The course consists of lessons involving a minimum of 70 hours of classroom study and practice. Pre-reading for each lesson is essential. Lectures will cover those areas essential for learning emergency care, but the need for pre-reading and continual review is essential for the understanding of first aid subjects covered in each lesson.
Although candidates of any age may take this program, regulation requires active advanced first aid attendants to be at least 16 years of age and be able to understand and perform the first aid skills required to complete the learning tasks. No previous first aid training is required, but recommended. This means you do not need to take Basic First Aid (OFA L1) or Intermediate First Aid (OFA L2) prior to taking this course.
Intention
Course participants are encouraged to assist in improving pre-hospital care of injured workers by promoting:
- Workplace compliance with the Occupational First Aid Regulation
- Effective interaction between attendants, employers and workers
- Efficient co-operation with higher levels of medical care, such as the BC Ambulance Service and hospital emergency personnel
Handouts
For walk-in patients that are sent back to work after treatment we give them a handout. These handouts used to be part of the printed material you receive during training, but not anymore. Please find the link to this document here for download.
What you will Receive with this Course
- A WorkSafeBC certificate in Advanced First Aid – valid for 3 years – issued immediately upon completion
- A paper version of the Advanced First Aid – Reference and Training Manual – v4
- A booklet containing scenario and skills practice
- A CPR pocket mask
What you get during Instruction
- A large classroom but small class size
- Attentive and experienced instructor care
- More realistic simulations with extra props and real tools
- Spaces to relax before, during breaks and after your class
- Free WiFi and electronic charging stations
- Free coffee and tea during all open hours of the site
- A selection of snacks and treats for a small donation
Recertification
When your certification is nearing its date of expiration (recommended 3 months prior), all ticket holders are welcome to attend a recertification program. This option is a 40 hour (week 2) program designed to refresh skills and update the student with any changes in programing standards since their last ticket.
The added benefit to recertification, not just time savings but significantly less cost. However, you will still be required to attend all 5 days, show full participation, and pass the required written and practical examinations for recertification.
Advanced first aid challenge option (2-day variant) is available. Please call us to ensure you qualify.
Please note: In order to qualify for the recertification program the individual must attend the first day of class prior to their ticket expiring. Should the certificate holder have an expired ticket, the recertification option is no longer available and the student must retake the program in full.
Why Train with Be Prepared First Aid?
Be Prepared First Aid Vancouver Island provides professional, practical, and student-focused first aid training. Our instructors bring real-world emergency response experience into the classroom and help students build confidence before they are needed in an actual emergency.
- 20+ years of proven training and first aid experience
- Hands-on practical learning
- Clear, supportive instruction
- Central Victoria training location
- On-site group training options available
What to do after booking your spot in the course:
Books will be given out on the first day of class.
You can already start by downloading the Electronic version of the new Advanced First Aid book, please read the information for the Priority Action Approach before day 1.
Advanced First Aid – Reference and Training Manual – v4 – 4 Sept 24-1
Download your electronic version
Ready to Join Us?
Click any of the dates below to register for an upcoming course.
Program Cost
WSBC Advanced – Full Program
$749.00
3-year certification
10 day training program for those who are just starting out
Get 42% Off
WSBC Advanced – Recertification
$439.99
3-year certification
5 day program for those who want some additional skills practices
WSBC Advanced – Course Challenge
$439.99
3-year certification
2 day program for veterans of AFA. Conditions apply
*All prices are subject to GST
Payment Options
Credit Card (online or in-person) / E-transfer (online) / Debit (on-site) / Cash (on-site)
Credit Card
Simply proceed with registration online and you will be prompted to enter your credit card information. Prefer to pay in-person? Simply come into our office at 605 Discovery Street and we can help you.
E-transfer
To pay via E-transfer, set us up as a payee in your banks e-transfer area.
Name: Be Prepared VI
Email: [email protected].
Note: Please place the the registrants name in the notes section so we can match your payment to the correct person.
Debit or Cash
Simply come into our office at 605 Discovery Street and we can help you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is WorkSafeBC Advanced First Aid?
WorkSafeBC Advanced First Aid is the highest level of occupational first aid certification recognized by WorkSafeBC. It is designed for workers who may be responsible for providing advanced first aid care in remote, isolated, or higher-risk workplaces. Advanced First Aid replaced Occupational First Aid Level 3 (OFA 3) under the updated WorkSafeBC training framework.
Is Advanced First Aid the same as OFA 3?
Yes. WorkSafeBC Advanced First Aid is the current equivalent of Occupational First Aid Level 3 (OFA 3). Existing OFA 3 certificates remain recognized until their expiry date.
Who should take WorkSafeBC Advanced First Aid?
This course is commonly required for designated first aid attendants working in remote, resource-based, industrial, marine, forestry, construction, utility, and other higher-risk workplaces where advanced first aid coverage is required by an employer’s first aid assessment.
How long is the Advanced First Aid course?
WorkSafeBC Advanced First Aid is typically delivered as a 10-day program that combines classroom learning, practical skills training, patient assessments, and realistic emergency scenarios.
Do I need previous first aid training before taking Advanced First Aid?
While previous first aid experience is beneficial, prerequisites may vary depending on the training provider. Contact us to discuss your background and determine whether Advanced First Aid is the right course for you.
How long is Advanced First Aid certification valid?
Advanced First Aid certification is generally valid for three years from the date of successful completion. Recertification requirements must be completed before the certificate expires.
What skills are taught in the course?
Students learn advanced patient assessment, airway management, oxygen therapy, spinal motion restriction, trauma management, medical emergencies, environmental emergencies, patient monitoring, workplace incident documentation, and emergency transportation procedures.
What industries commonly require Advanced First Aid attendants?
Advanced First Aid attendants are often found in:
- Forestry and logging
- Resource development projects
- Construction and infrastructure projects
- Mining and exploration
- Marine and fishing operations
- Utilities and telecommunications
- Oil and gas operations
- Remote industrial worksites
Does Advanced First Aid include CPR certification?
Yes. CPR skills are incorporated throughout the course as part of the emergency patient care and resuscitation training provided in Advanced First Aid.
How is the course evaluated?
Students are assessed through practical skill demonstrations, patient assessments, scenario-based exercises, and examinations to ensure they can safely apply advanced first aid skills in workplace emergencies.
Where can I use my Advanced First Aid certification?
A WorkSafeBC Advanced First Aid certificate may be used to meet workplace first aid requirements in British Columbia where an employer’s first aid assessment identifies Advanced First Aid as the required certification level. However, an Advanced First Aid attendant may use their skills at other workplaces where the requirements are less (Basic First Aid or Intermediate First Aid).
Does Be Prepared First Aid offer group training?
Yes. We can arrange private Advanced First Aid courses for employers, municipalities, industrial sites, and organizations throughout Victoria and Vancouver Island. Contact us for group training options and scheduling.
Lifelong Training Guarantee
All students who take a WorkSafeBC Advanced First Aid or Professional Responder (Red Cross) program with us, are welcome to sit in on any future training session they wish*. This will help to refresh your skills and keep your abilities up to date. Simply call us with your interest and dates and we will save you a spot.
*Subject to ticket validity and available seats. Contact us for more information.