Basic vs Intermediate First Aid (Emergency vs Standard)

September 18, 2024
9
min read
Last Updated
September 13, 2026
Basic vs Intermediate First Aid (Emergency vs Standard)
WSIB updated course names. Basic First Aid matches Emergency. Intermediate First Aid matches Standard. See which Para blended course to book.

Key Takeaways

Key takeaways

  • Basic First Aid (formerly Emergency First Aid) covers common injuries, CPR, and core first aid. Typical full length is about 8 hours.
  • Intermediate First Aid (formerly Standard First Aid) builds on Basic. It adds more injury and medical scenarios. Typical Para blended length is about 14 hours.
  • Both run as blended courses here: half online, half in class with paramedic instructors.
  • Intermediate First Aid is the most requested workplace course.
  • Under Reg 1101 / WSIB, Basic equals Emergency. Intermediate equals Standard.

What is Basic First Aid (formerly Emergency First Aid)?

Basic First Aid is the shorter level. It teaches core skills for common emergencies, including CPR and care for minor injuries.

At Para, the blended path is about 8 hours total (about 4 online + 4 in class).

You can choose CPR A or CPR C on this product today.

What is Intermediate First Aid (formerly Standard First Aid)?

Intermediate First Aid is the longer, more complete level. It includes Basic skills plus more training for serious injuries and medical emergencies.

At Para, the blended path is about 14 hours total on the CPR-C and BLS products (about 7 online + 7 in class).

Which course should you choose?

We recommend Intermediate First Aid (formerly Standard First Aid) for most people. It is more complete and more often required at work.

Choose Basic First Aid (formerly Emergency First Aid) when you only need the shorter path for a minimum workplace rule.

Name change FAQ

Q. Did WSIB rename the courses?
A. Yes. Emergency First Aid is now Basic First Aid. Standard First Aid is now Intermediate First Aid.

Q. Do employers still say Standard or Emergency?
A. Yes. Reg 1101 still uses those words. Basic equals Emergency. Intermediate equals Standard. Say both names when you book if you are unsure.

Q. Are old certificates still valid?
A. Certificates issued under the old names stay valid until they expire.

FAQs

#1

Did WSIB rename the courses?

Yes. Emergency First Aid is now Basic First Aid. Standard First Aid is now Intermediate First Aid.

#2

Do employers still say Standard or Emergency?

Yes. Reg 1101 still uses those words. Basic equals Emergency. Intermediate equals Standard. Say both names when you book if you are unsure.

#3

Are old certificates still valid?

Certificates issued under the old names stay valid until they expire.

#4

Which course should you choose?

We recommend Intermediate First Aid (formerly Standard First Aid) for most people. Choose Basic First Aid (formerly Emergency First Aid) when you only need the shorter path for a minimum workplace rule.

#5

In Conclusion

Book a date on the register page or the course calendar.

Or go straight to Intermediate First Aid with CPR-C (formerly Standard First Aid) or Basic First Aid (formerly Emergency First Aid).

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