First Aid
Highlighted words reveal definitions when selected.
First aid is emergency care given to an ill or injured person before emergency medical aid can be obtained. The purpose is to preserve life, prevent the condition from worsening, or to promote recovery. First aid may include performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) or providing treatment of minor injuries, such as applying a bandage to a wound.
Employers are required to make sure that an adequate number of first aid trained workers are present on each shift and a list of their names is posted in a prominent location. They must also make sure the workplace has sufficient first aid supplies and services for the number of workers on each shift and post signage indicating where and how to access these supplies and services.
Employers have a responsibility to inform workers about their injury reporting procedure and to report certain injuries and illnesses to authorities. Workers must promptly report injuries or illnesses that happen at work to their employer.
The Assistant Deputy Minister or an OHS Officer may order additions to or variations in the first aid services, requirements and supplies. [OHS First Aid Regs., s. 15] [OHS First Aid Regs., s. 4(4) and (5)] [OHS First Aid Regs., s. 5(1) and (2)]
Employer Responsibilities
Employers must:
- Make all reasonable efforts to protect the health, safety and welfare of their workers. [OHS Act, s. 4]
- Provide and maintain a workplace and the necessary equipment, systems, and tools in a manner that is safe and without risk to workers. [OHS Act, s. 5(a)]
- Provide the necessary information, instruction, training, supervision, and facilities. [OHS Act, s. 5(b)]
- Post a written notice that outlines the policy and procedure for reporting injuries in a prominent location at the workplace. [OHS First Aid Regs., s. 4(2)]
- Provide an effective means of checking on a worker’s well-being, at intervals satisfactory to an OHS Officer, where workers work in relative isolation from first aid services. [OHS First Aid Regs., s. 12]
First aid training requirements
Employers are required to make sure that an adequate number of first aid trained workers are present on each shift and a list of their names is posted in a prominent location. The table below outlines the number and type of first aid training required. [OHS First Aid Regs., s. 4(3) to (7)]
| Number of workers on a shift | First Aid Training Requirements |
| 1 worker and where a worker works alone | Make sure the worker holds a valid emergency first aid certificate, if reasonable or required by an OHS Officer. |
| 2 to 14 workers | Make sure one worker holds a valid emergency first aid certificate. |
15 to 199 workers |
Make sure at least one worker holds a valid standard first aid certificate; and Make sure an additional worker holds a valid emergency first aid certificate for every 25 workers or part of it in excess of 25 workers. For example, if you have 60 workers on a shift, you would need three workers trained in emergency first aid; two for each group of 25 and one for the remaining group of ten. |
| 200 or more workers | A first aid room and first aid room attendant are required; and Appoint a first aid attendant who is situated in a position to be readily available in case of an accident and in a state of dress and personal cleanliness consistent with the treatment of an injured person. Make sure a worker holds a valid emergency first aid certificate for every 25 workers or part of it in excess of 25 workers. |
First aid requires knowledge and skills that can be developed by completing a first aid training course with an approved training provider.[OHS First Aid Regs., s. 3.1(1)] First aid training expires after three years.
First aid supplies and services
Employers are required to make sure that sufficient first aid supplies and services are present at the workplace during each shift. First aid kits, associated supplies and equipment must meet the requirements of CSA Standard Z1220 “First aid kits for the workplace”. [OHS First Aid Regs., s. 4(1)(a)]
Where first aid supplies and services are used, employers must:
- Post signage in a prominent position near a first aid kit, this signage must include: [OHS First Aid Regs., s. 4(1)(b)] [OHS First Aid Regs., s. 7]
- The name of the person in charge of the first aid kit;
- The name and qualifications of each person trained to administer first aid; and
- An emergency procedure and a telephone list or other instructions for reaching the nearest police, ambulance, fire station, hospital or physician.
- Make sure each first aid kit or first aid room is provided with an approved register to record the details of first aid treatment given to or sought by a worker while at work and any cases referred for medical attention. [OHS First Aid Regs., s. 10(1)]
- Make sure first aid supplies and services are located close to the working areas that they serve and are readily available during all working hours. [OHS First Aid Regs., s. 11(1)]
- Make sure signs showing the location of the first aid supplies and services are posted in prominent places in working areas. [OHS First Aid Regs., s. 11(2)]
- Make sure first aid supplies and equipment are kept clean and dry. [OHS First Aid Regs., s. 11(3)]
- Provide and maintain in good condition a stretcher, blankets and splints at every workplace where there are more than 15 workers, or where required by an OHS Officer. [OHS First Aid Regs., s. 14]
- Provide a CSA-approved Type 1: Personal first aid kit to: [OHS First Aid Regs., s. 19]
- All underground mine forepersons employed underground;
- All logging and sawmill forepersons;
- All supervisors of workers where the nature of the work or the location of the workplace would make it reasonable; and
- All workers who work in isolation or who do not otherwise have access to a workplace first aid kit.
First aid room
Where a first aid room is required at a workplace, employers must:
- Provide and maintain a first aid room, located as conveniently as possible, during all working hours. [OHS First Aid Regs., s. 5(1)]
- Appoint a first aid attendant to supervise the first aid room. [OHS First Aid Regs., s. 5(2)]
- Keep the first aid room sanitary at all times and make sure it contains the required equipment and supplies in the quantities that may be reasonably necessary to provide prompt and effective first aid. [OHS First Aid Regs., s. 5(3)]
- Make sure there is a sign posted in a prominent position near the first aid room containing: [OHS First Aid Regs., s. 7]
- The name of the person in charge of the first aid room;
- The name and qualifications of each person trained to administer first aid; and
- An emergency procedure and a telephone list or other instructions for reaching the nearest police, ambulance, fire station, hospital or physician.
- Make sure the first aid room is provided with an approved register to record the details of first aid treatment given to or sought by a worker while at work and any cases referred for medical attention. [OHS First Aid Regs., s. 10]
- Make sure the first aid room is used for providing first aid and related occupational health services only. [OHS First Aid Regs., s. 13(2)]
A first aid room must: [OHS First Aid Regs., s. 13(1) and (2)] [OHS First Aid Regs., s. First Aid Room]
- Have a minimum floor dimension of 2.5 metres by 3.7 metres. [OHS First Aid Regs., s. 13(1)]
- Have an entrance large enough to allow the convenient passage of a stretcher. [OHS First Aid Regs., s. 13(1)]
- Have adequate lighting, heating and ventilation, including emergency lighting.
- Be painted and kept clean and sanitary.
- Be equipped with:
- A telephone or similar means of communication
- Hot and cold water
- Permanent sink installations (knee or elbow controls preferred)
- One refuse pail with cover
- One treatment chair with arm rests
- One bed with pillows, sheets and blankets, covered with a plastic sheet
- One cabinet suitable for storing dressings and instruments
- Be supplied with the following equipment:
- One advanced first aid safety-oriented manual, current edition
- One first aid record book
- One pair of bandage scissors, 13.9 cm
- One dressing forceps, 12.5 cm
- One splinter tweezers, blunt nose
- One dozen safety pins, assorted
- Two wash basins (stainless steel or polypropylene)
- One nail brush
- One package of paper towels
- One package of disposable paper cups
- One eye lamp
- One cold sterilizer or equivalent, with a supply of non-rusting germicidal solution to keep instruments sterile
- One kidney basin, polypropylene or stainless steel
- One carrying stretcher with three blankets
- One set of wooden or air splints, assorted sizes
- Three splints that are x-ray transparent or equivalent
- One Type 3: Intermediate first aid kit for large workplaces (51-100 workers) and flashlight for use outside the first aid room at the scene of the accident
- Any other supplies required by the first aid attendant in consultation with a physician
First aid registers
Employers must make sure that every first aid kit and first aid room is provided with an approved register to record the details of first aid treatment given to or sought by a worker while at work and any cases referred for medical attention. A first aid registry must include: [OHS First Aid Regs., s. 10(1)]
- The worker’s full name, age and occupation;
- The nature of the injury or illness;
- A short description of the cause of the injury or illness;
- The nature of the work in which the worker was engaged at the time of sustaining the injury or becoming ill, with date and time;
- The treatment given, with date and time;
- The disposition of the case stating whether the worker returned to work, was sent home or to a physician or hospital and means of transportation;
- The signature of the person making the entry; and
- Total time lost, time on restricted work activity and whether or not a Workers' Compensation claim was filed, for later completion, if necessary.
Employers must also make sure a first aid register is:
- Available for inspection by the Occupational Health and Safety Committee, Worker Health Safety Representative or OHS Officer. [OHS First Aid Regs., s. 10(2)]
- Kept for a period of five years from the date of the last entry. [OHS First Aid Regs., s. 10(3)]
- Provided to the director when requested. [OHS First Aid Regs., s. 10(4)]
Transporting injured workers
When transporting injured workers, employers must:
- Make sure an ambulance service or other suitable means of transportation for injured workers readily available. [OHS First Aid Regs., s. 11(4)]
- Make sure where a vehicle, other than an ambulance, is provided that the vehicle is clean, provides protection from the elements, and is capable of accommodating an occupied stretcher and one other person in the stretcher area. [OHS First Aid Regs., s. 11(5)]
- Make sure at least one person who holds a valid first aid certificate constantly attends a seriously injured worker or a person on a stretcher while they are being transported. [OHS First Aid Regs., s. 11(6)]
- Make sure a vehicle or another method used, that is under the control of the employer, for transporting workers to and from workplaces is equipped with a CSA-approved Type 3, Intermediate first aid kit, the contents of which are determined based on the legal seating capacity. Where a vehicle that is under the control of the employer, is intended to be used to transport ill or injured workers, it must be designed, equipped and maintained according to either OHS Division requirements or, in the case of industrial ambulances, according to the Department of Health and Community Services. [OHS First Aid Regs., s. 8]
Worker Responsibilities
Workers must:
- Report to the employer when they are injured as soon as possible following the injury. [OHS First Aid Regs., s. 9]
- Make all reasonable efforts to protect their own health and safety, and that of workers and other persons at, or near, the workplace. [OHS Act, s. 6]
- Cooperate with the employer and co-workers to protect the health and safety of everyone in the workplace. [OHS Act, s. 7(a)]
- Follow safe work practices and procedures. [OHS Regs., s. 17(2)]
- Immediately report hazards to the supervisor or employer. [OHS Regs., s. 17(3)]
- Cooperate with a person exercising a duty imposed by the OHS Act or Regulations, such as an OHS Officer. [OHS Act, s. 7(c)]
Related Topics
Assistant deputy minister
The Assistant Deputy Minister responsible for occupational health and safety. [OHS First Aid Regs., s. 2(d)]OHS Officer
An occupational health and safety officer appointed under this Act and includes a medical practitioner providing services under section 20 while he or she is providing those services. [OHS Act, s. 2(i)]Emergency first aid certificate
A certificate that meets the criteria established by WorkplaceNL under section 3.1 with respect to emergency first aid certificates. [OHS First Aid Regs., s. 2(e)]Standard first aid certification
A certificate that meets the criteria established by WorkplaceNL under section 3.1 with respect to standard first aid certificates. [OHS First Aid Regs., s. 2(j)]First aid attendant
A person who is the holder of a valid advanced first aid certificate or a person who possesses higher health care treatment credentials. [OHS First Aid Regs., s. 2(f)]Approved training provider
Some types of training, such as confined space entry, fall protection and power line hazards, must be delivered by WorkplaceNL approved training provider. A list of approved trainers and available courses can be found in the Certification Training Registry (CTR) https://ctr.bluedrop.io/#/.First aid kits
An approved container with approved first aid supplies. [OHS First Aid Regs., s. 2(g)]CSA
CSA is the Canadian Standards Association Group. Certain CSA standards are available for online viewing.To access these, you must first create an account with "CSA Communities".
Go to: https://community.csagroup.org/login.jspa?referer=%252Findex.jspa
Once you are logged in, click on the text below the "OHS Standards / View Access" graphic.
Click on the jurisdiction of your choice to see the CSA Standards as referenced in that legislation.
Standards may also be purchased from CSA Group: https://store.csagroup.org/
Type 1: Personal first aid kit
A first aid kit that meets the requirements of a Type 1: Personal first aid kit specified in CSA Z1220 "first aid kits for the workplace". [OHS First Aid Regs., s. 2(k)]Type 3: Intermediate first aid kit
A first aid kit that meets the requirements of a Type 3: Intermediate first aid kit specified in CSA Z1220 "First aid kits for the workplace". [OHS First Aid Regs., s. 2(l)]Occupational Health and Safety Committee
Where 10 or more workers are employed at a workplace, the employer shall establish an occupational health and safety committee to monitor the health, safety and welfare of the workers employed at the workplace. [OHS Act, s. 37]A committee shall consist of 2 to 12 persons. Where the employer and workers cannot agree on the size of the committee, the minister may establish its size. [OHS Act, s. 38]
At least half of the members are to be persons representing the workers who are not connected with the management. The persons representing the workers are to be elected by other workers or appointed in accordance with the constitution of the union of which the workers are members.
The employer shall appoint sufficient employer representatives to ensure that the committee may function.
The employer and worker members of a committee shall elect a co-chairperson from their respective groups.
The employer shall post the names of the committee members in a prominent place at the workplace.
A committee:
- Shall seek to identify aspects of the workplace that may be unhealthy or unsafe;
- Shall participate in a workplace inspection that an employer is required by the regulations to conduct;
- May make recommendations to principal contractors, employers, workers, self-employed persons and the Assistant Deputy Minister or an Officer for the enforcement of standards to protect the health, safety and welfare of workers at the workplace;
- Shall receive complaints from workers as to their concerns about the health and safety of the workplace and their welfare;
- Shall establish and promote health and safety educational programs for workers;
- Shall maintain records as to the receipt and disposition of complaints received from workers;
- Shall co-operate with the Assistant Deputy Minister or an Officer who is exercising his or her duties under the act; and
- Shall perform those other duties and follow those procedures that may be prescribed by the regulations. [OHS Act, s. 39]
Worker Health and Safety Representative
Where less than 10 workers are employed at a workplace, the employer shall ensure that a worker not connected with the management of the workplace is designated as the worker health and safety representative to monitor the health, safety and welfare of workers employed at the workplace.[OHS Act, s. 41]
The worker health and safety representative is to be elected by other workers at the workplace or appointed in accordance with the constitution of the labour union of which the workers are members. [OHS Act, s. 42]
The employer shall post the name of the worker health and safety representative in a prominent place at the workplace. [OHS Act, s. 43]
A worker health and safety representative has the same duties as those imposed upon a committee where that is reasonably practicable. [OHS Act, s. 44]
A worker health and safety representative shall consult with his or her employer while performing his or her duties. [OHS Act, s. 44]
OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY ACT
R.S.N.L. 1990, c. O-3
Section 2 Definitions
2. In this Act
(a) "assistant deputy minister" means an assistant deputy minister appointed under section 9 of the Executive Council Act for the proper conduct of this Act;
(b) "board" means the Labour Relations Board referred to in the Labour Relations Act;
(c) "committee" means an occupational health and safety committee referred to in this Act;
(d) "council" means the Occupational Health and Safety Council referred to in this Act;
(e) "division" means the Occupational Health and Safety Division;
(f) "employer" means a person who employs 1 or more workers;
(g) "minister" means the minister appointed under the Executive Council Act to administer this Act;
(h) "occupation" means employment prescribed by the regulations as an occupation;
(i) "officer" means an occupational health and safety officer appointed under this Act and includes a medical practitioner providing services under section 20 while he or she is providing those services;
(j) "principal contractor" means the person primarily responsible for the carrying out of a project and includes the person who owns the thing in respect of which the project is being carried out;
(k) "self-employed person" means a person who is engaged in an occupation on his or her own behalf;
(k.1) "supervisor" means a person authorized or designated by an employer to exercise direction and control over workers of the employer;
(l) "supplier" means a person who rents or leases tools, appliances or equipment to be used by a worker;
(m) "worker" means a person engaged in an occupation; and
(n) "workplace" means a place where a worker or self-employed person is engaged in an occupation and includes a vehicle or mobile equipment used by a worker in an occupation.
[S.N.L. 1999, c. 28, s. 1; 2006, c. 16, s. 1; 2009, c. 19, s. 1]
Section 4 Employers' general duty
4. An employer shall ensure, where it is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare of his or her workers.
Section 5 Specific duties of employers
5. Without limiting the generality of section 4, an employer
(a) shall, where it is reasonably practicable, provide and maintain a workplace and the necessary equipment, systems and tools that are safe and without risk to the health of his or her workers;
(b) shall, where it is reasonably practicable, provide the information, instruction, training and supervision and facilities that are necessary to ensure the health, safety and welfare of his or her workers;
(c) shall ensure that his or her workers, and particularly his or her supervisors, are made familiar with health or safety hazards that may be met by them in the workplace;
(d) shall, where it is reasonably practicable, conduct his or her undertaking so that persons not in his or her employ are not exposed to health or safety hazards as a result of the undertaking;
(e) shall ensure that his or her workers are given operating instruction in the use of devices and equipment provided for their protection;
(f) shall consult and co-operate with the occupational health and safety committee, the worker health and safety representative or the workplace health and safety designate, where the employer is not the workplace health and safety designate, on all matters respecting occupational health and safety at the workplace;
(f.1) shall respond in writing within 30 days to a recommendation of
(i) the occupational health and safety committee at the workplace,
(ii) the worker health and safety representative at the workplace, or
(iii) where the employer is not the workplace health and safety designate, the workplace health and safety designate at the workplace
indicating that the recommendation has been accepted or that it has been rejected, with a reason for the rejection;
(f.2) shall provide periodic written updates to
(i) the occupational health and safety committee at the workplace,
(ii) the worker health and safety representative at the workplace, or
(iii) where the employer is not the workplace health and safety designate, the workplace health and safety designate at the workplace
on the implementation of a recommendation accepted by the employer until the implementation is complete;
(f.3) shall consult with
(i) the occupational health and safety committee at the workplace,
(ii) the worker health and safety representative at the workplace, or
(iii) where the employer is not the workplace health and safety designate, the workplace health and safety designate at the workplace
about the scheduling of workplace inspections that are required by the regulations, and ensure that the committee, the worker health and safety representative or the workplace health and safety designate participates in the inspection; and
(g) shall co-operate with a person exercising a duty imposed by this Act or regulations.
[S.N.L. 1999, c. 28, s. 2; 2001, c. 10, s. 25; 2004, c. 52, s. 1]
Section 6 Workers' general duty
6. A worker, while at work, shall take reasonable care to protect his or her own health and safety and that of workers and other persons at or near the workplace.
Section 7 Specific duties of workers
7. A worker
(a) shall co-operate with his or her employer and with other workers in the workplace to protect
(i) his or her own health and safety,
(ii) the health and safety of other workers engaged in the work of the employer,
(iii) the health and safety of other workers or persons not engaged in the work of the employer but present at or near the workplace;
(a.1) shall use devices and equipment provided for his or her protection in accordance with the instructions for use and training provided with respect to the devices and equipment;
(b) shall consult and co-operate with the occupational health and safety committee, the worker health and safety representative or the workplace health and safety designate at the workplace; and
(c) shall co-operate with a person exercising a duty imposed by this Act or regulations.
[S.N.L. 1999, c. 28, s. 3; 2001, c. 10, s. 26; 2004, c. 52, s. 2]
Section 37 Committees
37. Where 10 or more workers are employed at a workplace, the employer shall establish an occupational health and safety committee to monitor the health, safety and welfare of the workers employed at the workplace.
[S.N.L. 1999, c. 28, s. 9]
Section 38 Membership of committees
38. (1) A committee shall consist of the number of persons that may be agreed to by the employer and the workers but shall not be less than 2 nor more than 12 persons.
(2) At least half of the members of a committee are to be persons representing the workers at the workplace who are not connected with the management of the workplace.
(3) The persons representing the workers on the committee are to be elected by other workers at the workplace or appointed in accordance with the constitution of the union of which the workers are members.
(4) Where the employer and workers cannot agree on the size of the committee, the minister may establish its size.
(5) The employer shall appoint sufficient employer representatives to ensure that the committee may function.
(6) The employer and worker members of a committee shall elect a co- chairperson from their respective groups.
(7) The employer shall post the names of the committee members in a prominent place at the workplace.
Section 39 Duties of committees
39. A committee established under section 37
(a) shall seek to identify aspects of the workplace that may be unhealthy or unsafe;
(a.1) shall participate in a workplace inspection that an employer is required by the regulations to conduct;
(b) may make recommendations to principal contractors, employers, workers, self-employed persons and the assistant deputy minister or an officer for the enforcement of standards to protect the health, safety and welfare of workers at the workplace;
(c) shall receive complaints from workers as to their concerns about the health and safety of the workplace and their welfare;
(d) shall establish and promote health and safety educational programs for workers;
(e) shall maintain records as to the receipt and disposition of complaints received from workers under paragraph (c);
(f) shall co-operate with the assistant deputy minister or an officer who is exercising his or her duties under the Act; and
(g) shall perform those other duties and follow those procedures that may be prescribed by the regulations.
[S.N.L. 2001, c. 10, s. 29]
Section 40 Meetings of committee
40. Meetings of a committee shall take place during regular working hours at least once every 3 months and a worker is not to suffer loss of pay or other benefits while engaged in a meeting of a committee.
Section 41 Worker representative
41. (1) Where less than 10 workers are employed at a workplace, the employer shall ensure that a worker not connected with the management of the workplace is designated as the worker health and safety representative to monitor the health, safety and welfare of workers employed at the workplace.
(2) The employer shall provide and pay for training for the worker health and safety representative.
(3) The training provided under subsection (2) shall meet the requirements the Workplace Health Safety and Compensation Commission may set.
(4) The worker health and safety representative shall participate in the training provided under this section.
(5) An employer shall compensate a worker for participating in training under this section as if the training were regular work.
[S.N.L. 2001, c. 10, s. 30; 2004, c. 47, s. 27]
Section 42 Election of representative
42. The worker health and safety representative is to be elected by other workers at the workplace or appointed in accordance with the constitution of the labour union of which the workers are members.
Section 43 Posting name
43. The employer shall post the name of the worker health and safety representative or the workplace health and safety designate in a prominent place at the workplace.
[S.N.L. 2004, c. 52, s. 9]
Section 44 Duties of representative
44. (1) A worker health and safety representative or the workplace health and safety designate has the same duties as those imposed upon a committee under section 39, where that is reasonably practicable.
(2) A worker health and safety representative or the workplace health and safety designate, where the workplace health and safety designate is not the employer, shall consult with his or her employer while performing his or her duties under subsection (1).
(3) Where the workplace health and safety designate is the employer, he or she shall consult with the workers while performing his or her duties under subsection (1).
[S.N.L. 2004, c. 52, s. 10]
Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, 2012
N.L.R. 5/12
Part III GENERAL DUTIES
Section 17 General duties of workers
17. (1) A worker shall make proper use of all necessary safeguards, protective clothing, safety devices, lifting devices or aids, and appliances
(a) designated and provided for the worker’s protection by the employer; or
(b) required under these regulations to be used or worn by a worker.
(2) A worker shall follow the safe work procedure in which the worker has been instructed.
(3) A worker shall immediately report a hazardous work condition that may come to the worker’s attention to the employer or supervisor.
[N.L.R. 43/22, s. 4]
Occupational Health and Safety First Aid Regulations
C.N.L.R. 1148/96
Section 2 Definitions
2. In these regulations
(a) "Act" means the Occupational Health and Safety Act ;
(b) "advanced first aid certificate" means a certificate that meets the criteria established by the commission under section 3.1 with respect to advanced first aid certificates referred to at paragraph 3.1(1)(a);
(c) "approved" means approved by the assistant deputy minister;
(d) "assistant deputy minister" means the assistant deputy minister responsible for occupational health and safety;
(d.1) "CSA" means the Canadian Standards Association;
(e) "emergency first aid certificate" means a certificate that meets the criteria established by the commission under section 3.1 with respect to emergency first aid certificates referred to at paragraph 3.1(1)(b);
(f) "first aid attendant" means a person who is the holder of a valid advanced first aid certificate or a person who possesses higher health care treatment credentials;
(g) "first aid kit" means an approved container with approved first aid supplies;
(h) "minister" means the minister appointed under the Executive Council Act to administer the Act;
(i) "shift" means a period of work engaged in by a worker whether or not it is preceded or followed by other periods of work at the same workplace;
(j) "standard first aid certificate" means a certificate that meets the criteria established by the commission under section 3.1 with respect to standard first aid certificates referred to at paragraph 3.1(1)(c); and
(k) "Type 1: Personal first aid kit" means a first aid kit that meets the requirements of a Type 1: Personal first aid kit specified in CSA Z1220 "First Aid Kits for the Workplace"; and
(l) "Type 3: Intermediate first aid kit" means a first aid kit that meets the requirements of a Type 3: Intermediate first aid kit specified in CSA Z1220 "First Aid Kits for the Workplace".
[N.L.R. 45/06, s. 1; 68/20, s. 1]
Section 3.1 First aid certificates
3.1 (1) The commission shall establish the education, practical training and other criteria required for a person to be issued a certificate of
(a) advanced first aid;
(b) emergency first aid; and
(c) standard first aid.
(2) Where a course or program is offered by a person or organization that provides the education, practical training and other criteria that the commission considers to be equivalent to that required under subsection (1), the commission may designate that course or program as offered by that person or organization as acceptable for the purpose of that subsection.
(3) In this section "commission" means the Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission continued under section 5 of the Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Act .
[N.L.R. 45/06, s. 2; S.N.L. 2022, c. W-11.1, s. 167]
Section 4 Duties of employer
4. (1) An employer shall
(a) provide and maintain
(i) first aid kits, associated supplies and equipment in a workplace in accordance with CSA Z1220 "First Aid Kits for the Workplace", and
(ii) other first aid supplies, services and equipment required by these regulations; and
(b) ensure so far as is reasonably practicable the application of the kits, supplies, equipment and services referenced in paragraph (a) towards prompt and effective first aid.
(2) An employer shall post in a conspicuous position at a workplace a written notice which outlines a policy and procedure for the reporting of injuries.
(3) Where an employer requires a worker to work alone the employer shall if it is reasonable to do so or if required to do so by an officer ensure that the worker holds a valid emergency first aid certificate.
(4) Where more than one but less than 15 workers are engaged on one shift an employer shall ensure that one of the workers holds a valid emergency first aid certificate unless an officer directs that a higher certificate is necessary.
(5) Where 15 or more but less than 200 workers are engaged on one shift an employer shall ensure that there is
(a) at least one worker who holds a valid standard first aid certificate unless an officer directs that a higher certificate is necessary; and
(b) in addition, a worker holding a valid emergency first aid certificate for each group of 25 workers or part of it in excess of 25 workers.
(6) An employer shall appoint a first aid attendant, where 200 or more workers are engaged on one shift and in addition shall ensure that there is a worker with a valid emergency first aid certificate for each group of 25 workers or part of it in excess of 25 workers.
(7) A person appointed under subsection (6) shall be situated in a position so as to be readily available in case of accident and in a state of dress and personal cleanliness consistent with the treatment of an injured person.
[N.L.R. 68/20, s. 2]
Section 5 First aid room required
5. (1) An employer
(a) employing 200 or more workers on one shift; or
(b) employing a total of 200 or more workers and if ordered to do so by an officer
shall provide and maintain as conveniently as possible to the workplace a first aid room under the supervision of a first aid attendant.
(2) The assistant deputy minister or an officer, having regard for existing circumstances, may order an employer to provide a first aid room and first aid attendant where less than 200 workers are employed, or under appropriate circumstances may relieve an employer of that obligation where 200 or more workers are employed.
(3) A first aid room required under this section shall be kept sanitary at all times and shall contain the equipment and supplies described in the Schedule to these regulations in the quantities that may be reasonably necessary to provide adequate first aid.
[N.L.R. 45/06, s. 1; 68/20, s. 3]
Section 7 Notice to be posted
7. The employer shall ensure that there is posted in a conspicuous place in the vicinity of the first aid kit or the first aid room at a workplace a notice containing
(a) the name of the particular person in charge of the first aid kit or first aid room;
(b) the name and qualifications of each person trained to administer first aid; and
(c) an emergency procedure and a telephone list or other instructions for reaching the nearest police, ambulance, fire station, hospital or physician.
Section 8 Conveyance
8. A conveyance used by or under the control of the employer for transporting workers to and from workplaces shall be equipped with a Type 3: Intermediate first aid kit, the contents of which are to be determined based on the legal seating capacity of the conveyance in accordance with CSA Z1220 "First Aid Kits for the Workplace".
[N.L.R. 68/20, s. 4]
Section 9 Report of injury
9. A worker shall, on being injured, report the injury to the employer as soon as practicable following the injury.
Section 10 First aid register
10. (1) An employer shall ensure that every first aid kit or first aid room is provided with an approved register as prescribed by the minister in which shall be recorded particulars of a first aid treatment given to or sought by a worker while at work and of any case referred for medical attention, and particulars shall include
(a) the full name, age and occupation of the worker
(b) the nature of the injury or illness;
(c) a short description of the cause of the injury or illness;
(d) the nature of the work in which the worker was engaged at the time of sustaining the injury or becoming ill, with date and time;
(e) the treatment given, with date and time;
(f) the disposition of the case stating whether the worker returned to work, was sent home or to a physician or hospital and means of transportation where applicable;
(g) the signature of the person making the entry; and
(h) for later completion, if necessary, total time lost, time on restricted work activity and whether or not a Workers' Compensation Commission claim was filed.
(2) First aid registers shall be available for inspection by the occupational health and safety committee or worker health safety representative or by an occupational health and safety officer.
(3) First aid registers shall be retained by the employer for a period of at least 5 years from the date of the last entry.
(4) An employer shall when requested forward copies of the first aid register to the director.
Section 11 General requirements
11. (1) First aid supplies and services shall be located in convenient proximity to the working areas in a workplace to be served and shall be readily available during all working hours.
(2) Signs showing the location of the first aid supplies and services shall be posted in conspicuous places in the working areas in a workplace.
(3) First aid supplies and equipment shall be kept clean and dry.
(4) At every workplace an employer shall ensure that there is readily available an ambulance service or other suitable means of transportation for injured workers.
(5) Where a vehicle other than an ambulance is provided, that vehicle shall be clean, provide protection from the elements and be of a size capable of accommodating an occupied stretcher and one other person in the stretcher area.
(6) Where possible a seriously injured worker or a stretcher case shall, while being transported, be constantly attended by at least one person who holds a valid first aid certificate.
Section 12 Status of workers
12. Where workers work in relative isolation from first aid services, the employer shall provide some effective means of checking on their well-being at intervals satisfactory to an officer.
Section 13 Requirements of first aid room
13. (1) Where these regulations require a first aid room, its minimum floor dimensions shall be 2.5 metres by 3.7 metres and the entrance shall be large enough to permit convenient passage of a stretcher case.
(2) The first aid room shall be
(a) painted and kept clean and sanitary;
(b) provided with adequate lighting, heating and ventilation, including emergency lighting;
(c) under the supervision of a first aid attendant;
(d) available to injured workers during all working hours;
(e) used only for the purpose of providing first aid and related occupational health services; and
(f) equipped with a telephone or similar means of communication between work areas at a workplace.
Section 14 Maintenance of first aid equipment
14. At every workplace, where there are more than 15 workers or where required by an officer, a stretcher, blankets and splints shall be provided and maintained in good condition.
Section 15 Additions or variations
15. The assistant deputy minister or an officer when circumstances so require may order additions to or variations in the first aid services, requirements and supplies set out in these regulations.
Section 16. Repealed. [N.L.R. 68/20, s. 5]
Section 17. Repealed. [N.L.R. 68/20, s. 5]
Section 18. Repealed. [N.L.R. 68/20, s. 5]
Section 19 Type 1 personal first aid kit
19. A Type 1: Personal first aid kit shall be provided by an employer and made readily accessible to
(a) all mine forepersons employed underground;
(b) all forepersons engaged in logging and sawmill operations;
(c) all supervisors of workers where the nature of the work or the location of the workplace would make it reasonable to be so equipped; and
(d) all workers who work in isolation or who do not otherwise have access to a workplace first aid kit.
[N.L.R. 68/20, s. 6]
First Aid Room
FURNISHINGS
Hot and cold water
Permanent sink installations (knee or elbow controls preferred)
1 refuse pail with cover
1 treatment chair with arm rests
1 bed with pillows, sheets and blankets, the whole to be covered with a plastic sheet
1 cabinet suitable for storing dressings and instruments
EQUIPMENT
1 advanced first aid safety oriented manual, current edition
1 first aid record book
1 pair bandage scissors, 13.9 cm
1 dressing forceps, 12.5 cm
1 splinter tweezers, blunt nose
1 dozen safety pins, assorted
2 wash basins (stainless steel or polypropylene)
1 nail brush
1 package paper towels
1 package of disposable paper cups
1 eye lamp
1 cold sterilizer or equivalent, with a supply of non-rusting germicidal solution to keep instruments sterile
1 kidney basin, polypropylene or stainless steel
1 carrying stretcher with 3 blankets
1 set wooden or air splints, assorted sizes
3 splints - x-ray transparent or equivalent
1 Type 3: Intermediate first aid kit for large workplaces (51-100 workers) and flashlight for use outside the first aid room at the scene of the accident
Those other supplies, in addition to those required under these regulations, as the first aid attendant in consultation with a physician considers necessary.
[N.L.R. 68/20, s. 8]
CCOHS
- Cold Environments - Health Effects and First Aid
- First Aid - Administering Naloxone (naloxone hydrochloride)
- First Aid - General
- First Aid - Using an Epinephrine Auto-injector
- First Aid for Chemical Exposures
- Hot Environments - Health Effects and First Aid
- OHS Posting Requirements
- Pesticides - First Aid
