Intermediate First Aid (OFA Level 2): The Complete Guide for BC Workplaces

Intermediate First Aid (OFA Level 2): The Complete Guide for BC Workplaces

Intermediate First Aid (previously called OFA Level 2) is an intermediate level First Aid class for first aiders in the workplace recognized by WorkSafeBC. The duration of the Mainland Safety course is approximately 14 hours, there is no prerequisite, the course costs $250 (plus GST) and the certificate will be valid for three years.

What Is Intermediate First Aid (OFA Level 2)?

The Intermediate First Aid course is WorkSafeBC's second level of First Aid. It is the next level further than Basic (formerly OFA Level 1), and the prerequisite for Advanced (formerly OFA Level 3). It teaches the staff what to do in case of injury or illness of workers until first aid is given, adult CPR/AED training.

Did OFA Level 2 change its name? Yes. On November 1, 2024, WorkSafeBC renamed the certificates:

1. OFA Level 1 is now Basic First Aid
2. OFA Level 2 is now Intermediate First Aid
3. OFA Level 3 is now Advanced First Aid

Many employers and job postings still say “OFA Level 2”, so use both terms on the page.

WorkSafeBC Requirements

A first aid attendant in the workplace must have a certificate from WorkSafeBC. Employers are responsible for ensuring that their first aid attendants are trained and certified to the required level.

How the required level is decided. Part 3 of the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation requires that a documented first aid assessment be completed. The outcome of the assessment will determine:

1. The number of workers on a shift
2. The workplace hazard rating (low, moderate or high)
3. Surface travel time to the nearest hospital (20 minutes is a key threshold)
4. Any barriers to getting first aid or transportation to an injured worker

The minimum attendant level, kit type and facilities come from Schedule 3-A of the regulation. Some higher-hazard or more remote workplaces also need a transportation endorsement.

What you must do as an employer:

1. Complete and document a first aid assessment, and review it when conditions change
2. Keep written first aid procedures
3. Provide the right attendants, kit and facilities for your assessment result

Cost

Mainland Safety’s Intermediate First Aid course is $250 plus 5% GST [verify current price].

Duration

The course is 14 hours of instruction, excluding breaks, typically run over two days. [verify: other BC providers list 16 hours, so confirm your own figure and schedule]

Prerequisites

None. You do not need Basic First Aid first. You must be able to understand the material and physically perform the first aid skills taught.

Certification and Validity

Please note that the requirements are only for those who attend the entire training and successfully complete the course as determined by an instructor certified by WorkSafeBC. This certificate will be issued for three (3) years from the date of the course. Check if you need to retake the whole course to renew your policy (some policies do)

Who Should Take It?

Anyone designated as a workplace first aid attendant where the employer’s assessment calls for the intermediate level. Anyone who wants stronger first aid skills than Basic provides can also take it.

Where to Take the Course

Mainland Safety offers Intermediate First Aid at 8433 132 St, Unit 208, Surrey, BC V3W 4N8. Check out the events page for the next available date and sign up. Just be aware that they list their refund policy as non-refundable, so you may want to inform students prior to enrollment.