Occupational Program First Aid Standards - WorkSafeBC

Occupational First Aid Program Standards

Occupational First Aid Training and Certification Administration Requirements

August 2018

WorkSafeBC Certification Services

of 56 OFA Training and Certification Administration Requirements

August, 2018

Occupational First Aid Program Standards

Contents

Introduction Page 3

Types of Courses Page 4

Definitions Page 5

1. First Aid Training and Certification Agency Agreements Page 7

2. Certifying OFA and Equivalent Attendants Page 9

3. Maintenance and Management of Records Page 18

4. Training Facility Requirements Page 20

5. Occupational First Aid Instructors Page 21

6. Inspections and Audits Page 33

Appendix A – OFA Candidate Identification Requirements Page 34

Appendix B – Training Equipment and Supplies Page 36

Appendix C – Conducting the Practical Evaluation Page 43

Appendix D – Evaluation Analysis Page 50

Appendix E – Accommodation Guidelines Page 54



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Introduction The Occupational Health and Safety Regulation (“OHSR”) section 3.15 First aid Attendant qualifications states;

The employer must ensure that a person who is designated as a first aid Attendant;

(a) is at least 16 years old,

(b) has successfully completed the first aid training course or first aid examination developed or approved by the Board,

(c) has a First Aid Certificate in good standing at the required level issued by the Board or a person recognized by the Board, and

(d) meets any other requirements determined by the Board for designation as a first aid Attendant.

The Occupational Health and Safety Regulation and Guidelines may be accessed on-line at: https://www.worksafebc.com/en/law-policy/occupational-health-safety/searchable-ohs-regulation

The purpose of this Occupational First Aid Program Standards document is to establish minimum requirements for persons recognized by the Board (“WorkSafeBC”) to provide training, conduct examinations and issue Certification.

The requirements for persons or organizations (“Agency”) to become recognized by WorkSafeBC to conduct Occupational First Aid (“OFA”) training, conduct examinations and issue certificates approved by WorkSafeBC, is explained in this document.

The general requirements for an Agency are that they:

1. Sign and comply with a First Aid Training and Certification Agency Agreement

2. Comply with the Occupational First Aid Program Standards as amended periodically,

3. Ensure that acceptable course delivery, Evaluation and/or examination occurs,

4. Ensure that instructors are competent and certified,

5. Ensure that appropriate training and Certification procedures are followed,

6. Maintain OFA and/or OFA Equivalent course training and Certification records,

7. Maintain instructor training and Certification records,

8. Submit to audits and inspections, and

9. Ensure that training facilities, supplies and equipment meet the requirements of the Occupational First Aid Program Standards and WorkSafeBC directives.

These requirements are discussed in more detail on the following pages.

https://www.worksafebc.com/en/law-policy/occupational-health-safety/searchable-ohs-regulation/ohs-regulation/part-03-rights-and-responsibilities#SectionNumber:3.15

https://www.worksafebc.com/en/law-policy/occupational-health-safety/searchable-ohs-regulation

https://www.worksafebc.com/en/law-policy/occupational-health-safety/searchable-ohs-regulation



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Types of Courses

There are two types of courses that may be taught:

1. WorkSafeBC-developed OFA courses and

2. Courses developed by others that have been accepted by WorkSafeBC as Equivalent to WorkSafeBC-developed courses.

Occupational First Aid course equivalency criteria are determined by WorkSafeBC.

For information about the course review process refer to WorkSafeBC.com and search “course review” or contact, WorkSafeBC Certification Services at [email protected] or 604.276.3090

WorkSafeBC is responsible for updating standards, course content and training materials for WorkSafeBC-developed courses. WorkSafeBC intends to review these courses every 5 years or sooner if required, to determine whether the current standards meet the needs of industry and reflect best practices in first aid care of the sick and injured.

The information will be used for course revision of WorkSafeBC developed materials and will be forwarded to the agencies that have developed Equivalent courses in order to facilitate their course revision. Equivalent courses are required to align with the CSA Standard referenced below and consult the other Standards outlined in this document when developing or revising Equivalent course materials.

WorkSafeBC developed Occupational First Aid courses align with CSA Standard Z1210-17 - First Aid Training for the Workplace - Curriculum and Quality Management for Training Agencies. Development of the training and Certification program was guided by ANSI Standard ANSI/ASSE Z490.1-2009 Criteria for Accepted Practices in Safety Health and Environmental Training, and the Institute for Credentialing Excellence Standard ICE 1100: 2010(E) – Standard for Assessment Based Certificate Programs.

mailto:[email protected]



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Definitions

“Agency” means: a person or organization that has entered into an agreement with WorkSafeBC to conduct OFA and/or Equivalent courses. “Agency Agreement” means: a First Aid Training and Certification Agency Agreement – WorkSafeBC Developed Courses or a First Aid Training and Certification Agency Agreement – Contractor Developed Courses between WorkSafeBC and an Agency. “Attendant” means: an individual who has earned a First Aid Certificate. “Business Days” means: Monday to Friday between the hours of 6am and 6pm, excluding statutory holidays. “Candidate” means: an individual participating in OFA or Equivalent course who has not yet earned a First Aid Certificate or Instructor Certificate. “Certification” means: a process by which individuals have demonstrated the level of knowledge and skill realized in the occupation or role. “Competency Assessment” means: the specific standards of performance which must be achieved in order to be deemed competent. The assessors utilize these standards to judge whether the Candidate has performed to the required standard for the purpose of Certification. “Emergency Medical Assistants” means: persons licensed by the Emergency Medical Assistants (EMA) Licensing Board. For the purposes of this document the licence levels are, FR (first responder), EMR (Emergency Medical Responder), PCP (Primary Care Paramedic), ACP (Advanced Care Paramedic), CCP (Critical Care Paramedic). “Equivalent” means: occupational first aid courses that were developed by others and were reviewed and approved by WorkSafeBC to be deemed Equivalent to OFA courses developed by WorkSafeBC. “Evaluation Analysis” means: a qualitative analysis completed by a qualified instructor to assess adherence to course administration requirements for all courses.

“Evaluation” means: an assessment of competency conducted by the course instructor of record to assess Candidate knowledge and/or skills leading to a Certification decision. “First Aid Certificate” means: an official document attesting to the fact that a person has successfully completed a course of instruction whether OFA or Equivalent, Evaluation and/or specific training requirements to provide occupational first aid in workplaces that fall within the jurisdiction of WorkSafeBC. “First Aid/Jump Kit” means: a portable kit capable of carrying the first aid supplies, listed in Appendix B of this Training and Certification Standard.



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“Instructor Certificate” means: an official document attesting to the fact that the person has successfully completed the specific training requirements, and has demonstrated the required competencies in order to instruct OFA or Equivalent courses. “Instructor Certification Terms and Conditions” means: the standards of conduct set out in section 5.3, that instructors have agreed to abide by in order to instruct OFA or Equivalent courses. “OFA” means: Occupational First Aid courses developed by WorkSafeBC. “OFA Level 1” means: a workplace first aid course consisting of 7 hours of instruction developed or approved by WorkSafeBC that includes the specific competencies for basic first aid as set out in CSA Standard Z1210-17. “OFA Level 2” means: a workplace first aid course consisting of 35 hours of instruction developed or approved by WorkSafeBC that includes the specific competencies for intermediate first aid as set out in CSA Standard Z1210-17. “OFA Level 3” means: a workplace first aid course consisting of 70 hours of instruction developed or approved by WorkSafeBC that includes the specific competencies for advanced first aid as set out in CSA Standard Z1210-17. “Medical Report of Fitness” means: the report of an examining physician on a form acceptable to WorkSafeBC, concerning the medical fitness of an OFA Candidate. “Practicable” means: that which is reasonably capable of being done. “Qualified Person” means: a person who has the appropriate knowledge (through education and training) and experience in the training and assessment of instructors. The Qualified Person should be at equal or higher level of Certification than the instructor who is receiving training or who is being assessed for competency. “Renewal” means: to renew an OFA or Equivalent Instructor Certificate prior to its expiry date. “Reinstatement” means: the restoration of an Instructor Certificate that has expired. “Statement of Fitness” means: a form acceptable to WorkSafeBC, completed by a Candidate in an OFA 2, OFA 3 or Equivalent course or Evaluation, declaring their physical and psychological fitness. “TE” means: Transportation Endorsement, a Certification program developed by WorkSafeBC designed as an adjunct to OFA Level 1 and OFA Level 2 Certification.

http://www.worksafebc.com/en/resources/health-safety/forms/occupational-first-aid-medical-certificate-of-fitness-report-of-examining-physician-form-55m5?lang=en



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1. First Aid Training and Certification Agency Agreement To register as an Agency, a person or organization must submit an application for registration that includes:

a) The type of Agency status requested (OFA or Equivalent),

b) The levels of first aid that will be taught (OFA Level 1 and TE or Equivalent or all OFA or Equivalent courses),

c) A notarized document declaring the registered owner of the company or, in the absence of a registered owner, the chief executive of the corporation or the authorized representative of the organization or society or public or private institution,

d) Two originally signed copies of the First Aid Training and Certification Agency Agreement,

e) A copy of an organization chart and the contact information for the persons at an Agency responsible for ensuring compliance with the Agency Agreement and the OFA Program Standards, listing each official and position by title,

f) A company health and safety program including written procedures as required by the Workers’ Compensation Act and the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation, and

g) Agency policies and procedures that are congruent with this Occupational First Aid Program Standards document.

Following submission and approval of the registration application, the Agency must:

h) Arrange to have the Agency’s facility, equipment and supplies inspected by a WorkSafeBC Certification Officer, and

i) Submit the Agency annual training and Certification report by the deadline indicated on the report.

Training Agencies that are inactive (no training delivered or Certificates issued) for three years, as evidenced by their Agency annual training and Certification report submission, will be removed from the approved training provider list, and their Agency status Terminated. To be reinstated, the Agency will be required to follow the procedures for initial Agency approval.

1.1 Where, in the Occupational First Aid Program Standards, there is a duty or obligation on

the first aid training Agency, WorkSafeBC will hold the Agency responsible for those duties. A breach of duties or obligations or a breach of the Agency Agreement may result in termination of the Agency registration.

1.2 In order for an Agency to access OFA course materials or conduct courses and/or Competency Assessments or issue certificates, a First Aid Training and Certification Agency Agreement must be on file with WorkSafeBC.

http://www.worksafebc.com/en/resources/health-safety/forms/application-for-registration-as-first-aid-training-agency-form-50d7?lang=en



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1.3 In order for an Agency developed course to be recognized as an OFA Equivalent course, the Agency developed course must be reviewed and approved by WorkSafeBC. See WorkSafeBC Course Review for more information.

1.4 In order for any Agency to conduct courses and/or Competency Assessments of approved Equivalent courses in B.C., an Equivalent First Aid Training and Certification Agency Agreement must be on file with WorkSafeBC.

1.5 Agencies are responsible for informing WorkSafeBC without undue delay of a change of ownership and/or location and providing periodic updates of Agency contact information as required by 1.e).

1.6 Where Practicable, WorkSafeBC must be notified a minimum of seven (7) Business Days in advance of all OFA and Equivalent courses and one (1) business day of all OFA and Equivalent course cancellations. Notifications must be submitted electronically to [email protected] and must include the training dates, times, locations, the name of the instructor and any other relevant details regarding the courses.

1.7 Where an Agency has determined that course notification deadlines required by section 1.6 above could not be met, the Agency must submit their course notifications as soon as possible with an explanation of the extenuating circumstances.

https://www.worksafebc.com/en/health-safety/education-training-certification/course-review




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2. Certifying OFA and Equivalent Attendants 2.1 Class Size

a) For OFA Level 1 and Equivalent courses, the class size must not exceed 18 Candidates.

b) For OFA Level 2, Level 3 and Transportation Endorsement and Equivalent courses the class size must not exceed 12 Candidates.

2.1.1 The Agency must have a policy that addresses a minimum class size. Some of the competencies require the Candidate to demonstrate certain skills that can only be accomplished when there are adequate numbers of Candidates in a course.

2.1.2 The Agency must have procedures that address what their instructor should do in the event that the number of Candidates present at the start of a course is either inadequate to allow Candidates to demonstrate those skills, or the number of Candidates exceeds the maximum class size allowable.

2.2 Candidate Age To be a designated first aid attendant in a workplace under the jurisdiction of WorkSafeBC, an employer must ensure that the attendant is at least 16 years of age. There are no minimum age requirements to participate in the OFA courses. Candidates must be able to comprehend the information presented and be physically capable of performing the required skills to be issued an OFA certificate. If a Candidate is able to meet the course objectives, they can be marked as "successful" and be issued a certificate.

2.3 Candidate Application Form

Each Candidate must sign an application form that contains, but is not limited to, the following information:

a) A statement whereby the Candidate agrees to share their personal information contained on the registration form with WorkSafeBC.

E.g., “By signing this application form the registrant agrees to share their personal information with WorkSafeBC. The Training Agency acknowledges that any information disclosed to WorkSafeBC will be subject to the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act”,

b) The Candidate’s legal name, permanent mailing address, current phone number, date of birth and the date of application, and

http://www.bclaws.ca/civix/document/id/complete/statreg/96165_00

http://www.bclaws.ca/civix/document/id/complete/statreg/96165_00



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c) A statement whereby the Candidate agrees to perform his/her duties as an Attendant according to the principles of first aid outlined in the course of instruction and adhere to the Terms and Conditions of Certification in the course training guides, the OHSR and associated Guidelines.

2.3.1 Additional information that may be included:

a) Previous certificate number and history of Certification and/or any other relevant training,

b) Candidate’s occupation, and c) Employer’s name, mailing address and phone number.

2.4 Candidate Identification

2.4.1 All OFA and Equivalent Candidates must produce one piece of acceptable photographic identification (ID) before Certification may be granted. Refer to Appendix A for additional information and a list of acceptable identification. No personal information on the ID produced may be recorded (simply note the type of ID produced on the course roster or application – do not record ID numbers or make photocopies of the ID).

2.4.2 Candidates have the right to refuse to provide identification, disclose personal information, agree to the Terms and conditions of Certification or sign the application form. However, Candidates refusing or failing to provide appropriate identification and/or do not agree to the above conditions, must not be issued OFA or Equivalent Certification.

2.5 Evaluation and Certification

Agencies must only issue OFA or Equivalent certificates that have been vetted and approved by WorkSafeBC, Certification Services. See Certificates Accepted in BC

For a list of approved OFA certificate printers, contact [email protected].

2.5.1 Agencies must have written policies and procedures regarding OFA or Equivalent Evaluations. Agency policies must include, but are not limited to:

a) The manner in which the Agency will invigilate OFA or Equivalent written Evaluations,

b) How the integrity and security of the Evaluation materials will be protected,

c) How the Agency will administer oral Evaluations if oral written Evaluations are considered by the Agency,

d) The circumstances leading to a Candidate qualifying for an oral written Evaluation,

e) How the Agency will manage Candidates who are discovered, or are suspected of, cheating in any portion of an Evaluation,

https://www.worksafebc.com/en/health-safety/create-manage/first-aid-requirements/certificates-accepted-in-bc




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f) When written Evaluations will be conducted,

g) Acceptable standards of Candidate performance, and

h) The assistance available to OFA and Equivalent instructors when Candidates trained by an instructor fall short of acceptable performance standards.

2.5.2 The Agency is responsible for eliciting and analyzing Candidate feedback about all OFA and Equivalent courses. Course Candidates should be instructed to complete a course feedback survey clearly and legibly. Course feedback survey’s given to Candidates must be kept confidential and should include questions about the following:

a) Course content, lesson flow/timings, application activities and homework

b) Candidate expectations of the course (met/not met), and whether they feel prepared to act as an OFA Attendant at work (why/why not)

c) Strengths and weaknesses of the course and any areas for improvement,

d) Instructor performance, effectiveness, knowledge of subject matter, enthusiasm, time and people management, clarity, fairness and value of Candidate performance feedback, etc.,

e) Training environment, adequacy and general hygiene of equipment and supplies, and

f) General comments

2.5.2.1. A summary of comments regarding instructor performance should be shared with the instructor as part of their ongoing development.

2.5.2.2 Comments about the course should be forwarded to WorkSafeBC at [email protected] or Candidates should be directed to comment directly to Certification Services by email.

2.6 Level 1, TE and Equivalent Courses

2.6.1 Excluding nutrition and/or health breaks, the OFA Level 1, the TE and Equivalent courses are each a minimum of 7 hours in length. Additional time must be added to the course duration to compensate for all breaks.

2.6.2 To qualify for an OFA Level 1, a TE or Equivalent certificate, a Candidate must successfully complete the full course of instruction, must successfully demonstrate all required competencies, and must achieve a grade of at least 70% on the written portion of the Evaluation (if required) as instructed and evaluated by an Agency recognized by WorkSafeBC. Instructors must ensure Candidates achieve all required competencies prior to issuing Certification.




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2.6.3 Failure to successfully demonstrate all required practical skill competencies required for OFA Level 1, TE or Equivalent Certification or failure to complete the course, is considered a failure of the whole course. Candidates will be required to complete the respective course again in its entirety.

2.6.4 Candidates who demonstrate the required practical skill competencies required for OFA Level 1 or Equivalent Certification but fail to achieve a grade of at least 70% on the written portion of the Evaluation or fail to complete a written Evaluation, may attempt a second written Evaluation no sooner than 24 hours after the first failed Evaluation. Candidates that choose not to attempt a second Evaluation within 30 days of the first Evaluation, will be required to repeat the entire course of instruction prior to being eligible for another Evaluation.

2.6.5 Should the second written Evaluation also result in failure, the Candidate must undergo a full course of instruction prior to being eligible for another Evaluation.

2.7 OFA Level 2, Level 3 and Equivalent Courses

2.7.1 The duration of the OFA Level 2 and Equivalent course is a minimum of 35 hours, excluding any nutrition and/or health breaks.

The duration of the OFA Level 3 and Equivalent course is a minimum of 70 hours excluding nutrition and/or health breaks.

Additional time must be added to the course duration to compensate for all breaks.

2.7.2 To qualify for an initial OFA Level 2, OFA Level 3 or Equivalent certificate, a Candidate must successfully complete an OFA Level 2, OFA Level 3 or an Equivalent course of instruction, and achieve a grade of at least 70% on each of the written and practical portions of the Evaluations conducted by a person authorized by WorkSafeBC.

2.7.3 Failure of the written and/or practical skills Evaluation may be remediated at the

discretion of an approved training Agency. The Agency must have a policy and written procedures for remediating failed evaluations. Candidates will be required to repeat the failed segment of the Evaluation in its entirety (written and/or practical). Passing grades obtained in various segments of the first Evaluation may be carried forward to the second.

2.7.4 Candidates may attempt a second Evaluation no sooner than 24 hours after the first failed Evaluation. Candidates that choose not to attempt a second Evaluation within 30 days of the first, will be required to repeat the entire course of instruction prior to being eligible for another.

2.7.5 Should the second Evaluation also result in failure, the Candidate must undergo a full course of instruction prior to being eligible for another Evaluation.



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2.8 Emergency Medical Assistants 2.8.1 Candidates in possession of a current Emergency Medical Assistants (EMA) Licence,

may apply for an OFA certificate at the appropriate level, from an authorized training Agency. The training Agency must have a policy and written procedures for issuing an OFA Certificate to EMA licensee’s.

2.8.2 A licensed First Responder with full Schedule 1 qualifications issued by EMA

Licensing may be issued an unrestricted OFA Level 1 certificate. OFA Level 1 certificates issued under 2.8.2 expire on the same date as the EMA First Responder licence.

2.8.3 A licensed First Responder with full Schedule 2 qualifications issued by EMA

Licensing may be issued an unrestricted OFA Level 2 certificate. OFA Level 2 certificates issued under 2.8.3 expire on the same date as the EMA First Responder (EMA FR) licence.

2.8.3.1 The EMA FR license holder with either full Schedule 1 or Schedule 2

qualifications is required to;

a) Complete the OFA out of jurisdiction jurisprudence package, b) Present their photo identification, c) Present their EMA FR licence, d) Fill out and sign an OFA Statement of Fitness, and e) Fill out and sign an OFA out of jurisdiction Certification application form.

2.8.3.2 The authorized training provider is required to;

a) Ensure the WorkSafeBC OFA out of jurisdiction jurisprudence package has been completed by the applicant,

b) Have the applicant complete an OFA out of jurisdiction Certification application that includes their agreement with the Terms and Conditions of OFA Certification,

c) Have the applicant complete an OFA Statement of Fitness, d) Ensure that the applicant’s identification is valid, e) Ensure that the EMA licence is current by contacting the EMALB to

confirm the validity of the license, email verification requests to [email protected]

f) Keep a copy of the EMA FR licence number issued, and g) Document the certificate number of the OFA certificate issued.




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2.8.4 A licensed Emergency Medical Responder or higher level of EMA licensure (EMR through CCP) may be issued an OFA 3 certificate. As EMA Paramedic licenses must be maintained annually to remain valid, an OFA certificate issued under 2.8.4 is valid for three (3) years from the date of application.

2.8.4.1 The EMA license holder is required to;

a) Complete the OFA out of jurisdiction jurisprudence package, b) Present their photo identification, c) Present their EMA Paramedic license or letter issued by the EMA Licensing

Board (EMALB) indicating that the license is valid (not in shortfall), d) Fill out and sign an OFA Statement of Fitness, and e) Fill out and sign an OFA out of jurisdiction Certification application form.

2.8.4.2 The authorized training provider is required to;

a) Ensure the WorkSafeBC OFA out of jurisdiction jurisprudence package has been completed by the applicant,

b) Have the applicant complete an OFA out of jurisdiction Certification application that includes their agreement with the Terms and Conditions of OFA Certification,

c) Have the applicant complete an OFA Statement of Fitness, d) Verify the applicant’s identification is valid, e) Ensure that the EMA licence is valid by contacting the EMALB to confirm,

email verification requests to [email protected] f) Keep a copy of the letter issued by the EMA Licensing Board verifying

that the licensee is valid (not in shortfall), as the EMALB no longer issues a plastic EMA licence to paramedics, a copy of the letter issued to the licensee will be sufficient, and

g) Document the certificate number of the OFA certificate issued.

2.9 Practical Skill Competency Assessments

2.9.1 Summative practical skill Competency Assessments (Evaluations) that lead to a Certification decision must be conducted by a qualified instructor; this is typically the instructor that conducted the course. The Agency must have a policy and written procedures that address summative Competency Assessments conducted by a qualified instructor that is not the instructor that conducted the course.

2.9.2 Agencies must ensure that the instructor conducting the summative practical skill Competency Assessment maintains adequate documentation to support a Certification decision or to defend an appeal of a Certification decision. The Evaluation criteria are listed in the training guides, the OFA Reference and Training Manual and the summative assessment tools in the course materials.

2.9.3 Evaluations must have no fewer than 3 Candidates per session. If, due to circumstances beyond the control of the Agency, there are fewer than the minimum number of Candidates to be assessed (fewer than 3); an Agency may use




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volunteers to assist if the Agency policy allows it. If volunteers are recruited, they must be briefed on the Evaluation procedures including appropriate conversation and behavior during the Evaluation. Thorough documentation must accompany the class file to explain any deviation from this requirement.

2.9.4 The Agency must have a policy regarding the use of volunteers acting in the capacity of patient and/or helper during Evaluations.

2.9.5 Instructors must not permit unnecessary and/or unreasonable distractions from the

task of evaluating and grading Candidates.

2.9.6 Agencies must ensure the instructor conducts the Evaluation in accordance with the WorkSafeBC OFA Instructor Guide and Appendix C of the OFA Program Standards.

2.9.7 OFA and Equivalent Certification may only be issued by an Agency that has exchanged an agreement with WorkSafeBC using Evaluation material and content developed or approved by WorkSafeBC.

2.9.8 Following the conclusion of an OFA 2, OFA 3 and/or Equivalent course, the Evaluation results (pass/fail and an explanation of deductions, if any) must be discreetly communicated to Candidates individually.

2.9.9 The Candidate’s practical skill Evaluation results and the written Evaluation score must be provided in writing to the Candidate upon completion of the course.

2.10 Medical fitness OHSR 3.21(2) states;

A first aid Attendant must be physically and mentally capable of safely and effectively performing the required duties, and the Board may at any time require the Attendant to provide a medical certificate. 2.10.1 All OFA 2, OFA 3 and/or Equivalent course Candidates must complete a

Statement of Fitness prior to the start of all OFA Level 2, OFA Level 3 and/or Equivalent courses to confirm that the Candidate is physically and mentally capable of safely performing the required duties of an Attendant. Statements of Fitness must be reviewed by the Agency for errors and/or omissions prior to Certification being granted.

2.10.2 The certifying Agency must keep complete Statements of Fitness in the course file

for the duration of the certificate (3 years). 2.10.3 Where an Agency knows or reasonably ought to know through the course of

instruction that a Candidate may not be physically and mentally capable of safely and effectively performing the required duties of an Attendant, the Agency must ensure that the Candidate is aware of the statutory qualifications and requirements to act as an Attendant, including under section 3.21 of the OHSR.

https://www.worksafebc.com/en/resources/health-safety/information-sheets/ofa-statement-fitness?lang=en



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The Agency shall advise WorkSafeBC of the issue and, if required by WorkSafeBC, ask the Candidate to provide a report from an examining physician (Medical Certificate of Fitness form 55m5 may be found on WorkSafeBC.com) concerning the medical fitness of the Candidate. The Agency shall not issue a First Aid Certificate to the Candidate if the medical certificate of fitness does not confirm that the Candidate is physically and mentally capable.

2.11 Certification Renewal Extensions of OFA and Equivalent certificates are not available.

2.11.1 To renew an OFA Level 1 or a TE or Equivalent certificate, a Candidate must meet the same application, training and Evaluation requirements as for initial Certification (i.e., they must successfully retake the full course or its Equivalent and achieve all required Certification requirements).

2.11.2 To renew an OFA Level 2 or Equivalent certificate, a Candidate must;

a) Successfully retake the full course of instruction and Evaluation or

b) Successfully challenge the OFA Level 2 Evaluation.

An OFA Level 2 challenge Evaluation leading to a Certification decision consists of the final 14 hours of the OFA Level 2 course. The Evaluation challenge Candidate must possess;

i. a current (unexpired) OFA Level 2 or Equivalent certificate and

ii. a CPR/AED Certification that included adult resuscitation.

The CPR/AED certificate must have been issued within the previous 6 months by a recognized basic life support curriculum provider (e.g., Canadian Red Cross, Heart and Stroke Foundation, St. John Ambulance, Lifesaving Society). Candidates challenging the OFA Level 2 Evaluation are advised that, depending on the nature of the Equivalent first aid course, there may be equipment, protocol, and procedure (e.g. patient record) differences that impact assessment results.

https://www.worksafebc.com/en/resources/health-care-providers/forms/occupational-first-aid-medical-certificate-of-fitness-report-of-examining-physician-form-55m5?lang=en

https://www.worksafebc.com/en/resources/health-care-providers/forms/occupational-first-aid-medical-certificate-of-fitness-report-of-examining-physician-form-55m5?lang=en

http://www2.worksafebc.com/PDFs/firstaid/55M5.pdf



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2.11.3 To renew an OFA Level 3 or Equivalent certificate, a Candidate must

a) Successfully retake the full course of instruction and Evaluation or

b) Successfully challenge the OFA Level 3 Evaluation.

An OFA Level 3 challenge Evaluation leading to a Certification decision consists of the final 14 hours of the OFA Level 3 course. The Evaluation challenge Candidate must possess;

i. a current (unexpired) OFA Level 3 or Equivalent certificate, or a valid advanced first aid certificate (a first aid or pre-hospital emergency care course consisting of approximately 70 hours), and

ii. a CPR/AED Certification that included adult resuscitation.

The CPR/AED certificate must have been issued within the previous 6 months by a recognized basic life support curriculum provider (e.g., Canadian Red Cross, Heart and Stroke Foundation, St. John Ambulance, Lifesaving Society). Out of jurisdiction and OFA Level 3 Equivalent Candidates challenging the OFA Level 3 Evaluation are advised that, depending on the nature of the advanced first aid course, there may be equipment, protocol, and procedure (e.g. patient record) differences that impact assessment results.

2.11.4 A copy of the Candidate’s previous OFA Level 2 or OFA Level 3 or Equivalent certificate must be placed in the Evaluation or course file.

2.11.5 OFA Level 2 or Level 3 or Equivalent challenge Candidates must achieve a grade of at least 70% on each of the written, practical and oral portions of the Evaluation.

2.11.6 The Agency must have a policy and written procedures regarding the registration and administration of Evaluation challenges for OFA Level 2 and OFA Level 3 or Equivalent Candidates.

2.12 Appeals and Complaints

The existence of an appeal and complaints procedure must be communicated to Candidates and instructors.

2.12.1 An Agency must have a written appeal and complaint procedure in place that

indicates how to address issues including, but not limited to:

a) OFA and/or Equivalent course Evaluations and Certification decisions conducted by the instructor,

b) OFA and/or Equivalent classroom, Candidate and instructor conduct,

c) The application of the practical skills Evaluation grading criteria, and

d) The Certification decision of OFA Level 2, Level 3 or Equivalent practical skills Evaluations.



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2.12.2 The procedure must also describe a course of action for a complainant who is not satisfied with the Agency’s investigative conduct, the conclusions reached, or resolution offered including complaints of conflict of interest.

2.12.3 The Agency must maintain accurate and comprehensive records of appeals and

resolutions and investigation reports must be available for inspection when requested by an Officer of WorkSafeBC. When requested, the Agency must communicate directly with, and in the time specified by, WorkSafeBC.

3. Maintenance and Management of Records 3.1 Agencies must maintain a record of all training and Certification activities. Stored records

must be protected from physical harm or loss and managed in a sensible and logical manner. Records must be organized and indexed so they are easily retrievable (e.g. alphabetical and/or chronological) for audit and investigation purposes.

3.1.1 A training Agency must:

a) Maintain an accurate record of OFA and/or Equivalent courses conducted.

b) Secure all records within Canada (Attendant Candidate training records must be stored for three years plus one day - the duration of the certificates issued),

c) Make all records available for inspection when requested by an officer of WorkSafeBC, and

d) Forward all requested records to WorkSafeBC, within the time limits set by WorkSafeBC.

3.1.2 Records will include, depending on the type of course, the following information:

a) A complete and signed Candidate application form (all courses), b) A signed (by the Candidate) and dated copy of the Terms and Conditions of

Certification (all courses), c) A record of all Candidates in attendance in all courses/lessons (all courses), d) A record of classroom achievement (practical skills checklists) including a

record of any remedial training provided or recommended (all courses), e) Practical skills Evaluation documentation (Level 2, Level 3 or Equivalent

Evaluations). Documentation includes the original summative practical skill Evaluation marking sheets produced by the instructor, and all records produced by Candidates during the Evaluation,

f) The original written Evaluation answer sheets, dated with the Candidate’s full printed name and signature (all courses),

g) Certificate numbers issued (all courses), h) Candidate course feedback survey forms (all courses), i) Training facility maintenance and equipment cleaning and disinfection history,

and j) Appeals, complaints and other investigation records.



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3.1.3 Agencies that prefer to store training, Certification and other relevant records electronically must have policies and procedures that address the storage of electronic records. Policies must consider factors such as compliance risk and procedures must provide guidance regarding the following issues: a) Document accuracy, b) Document quality, c) Accessibility of documents, d) Document security, e) Internet security, f) Overall document legibility, and g) Long-Term viability of stored documents. 3.1.3.1 The policies and procedures must include specifics regarding the document

storage system, confidentiality of information, storage location, filing and retrieval method(s) and how the quality of particular document types where applicable, (for example, legibility of hand-written signatures and text), will be ensured.

3.2 Instructor Records Agencies must maintain up to date and accurate instructor records.

3.2.1 Instructor training, Certification, Renewal and Reinstatement records are to be maintained, kept up to date and held in confidence by the Agency.

3.2.2 The Agency must maintain documentation on all instructors who conduct OFA or

Equivalent courses for the Agency. Documents include but are not limited to:

a) Qualifications and experience, Certification history and other authorizations,

b) Evaluation Analysis,

c) Competency Assessments,

d) Courses conducted,

e) Candidate performance standards (pass/fail ratios),

f) Appeals and complaints investigations,

g) Remediation records, and

h) Investigation of poor performance.

4. Training Facility Requirements 4.1 Equipment and Supplies



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A Training Agency must ensure that the first aid equipment and supplies listed in Appendix B are available, clean, serviceable and ready for use in each class.

4.1.1 Equipment that makes direct contact with course Candidates must be kept in a sanitary condition according to standards specified in the OFA course training materials, the Occupational First Aid Program Standards and any equipment manufacturer recommendations.

4.2 Classroom

4.2.1 The classroom used for instructing OFA and Equivalent Candidates must meet the requirements of WorkSafeBC for skills demonstration, class practice floor space and instructor observation of Candidate performance. A minimum of 46.5 sq. metres (500 sq. feet) of clear working space per class of 10 to 18 Candidates is required. For classes with fewer than 10 Candidates enrolled, the room must be equal to 4 sq. metres (44 sq. feet) per Candidate.

4.2.2 The instructor must have an unobstructed view of Candidates during the training and/or Evaluation.

4.3 Supervision The Agency must have a classroom supervision policy and written procedures designed to prevent the development of unsafe conditions or inappropriate conduct. The Agency is responsible for supervising classrooms and for conducting routine performance assessments to ensure:

a) Instructors are using the appropriate version of the course instructor guide, approved supplementary training and/or Evaluation materials,

b) Instructors adhere to the approved course content, recommended course agenda and Candidate Evaluation protocol,

c) classroom conduct is appropriate and respectful,

d) Instructors correctly and accurately complete the required course documentation,

e) OFA Level 2, OFA Level 3 and Equivalent Candidates have met the Evaluation eligibility requirements (attendance of required number of hours, quizzes and homework completed as per the training guide), and

f) OFA and Equivalent Candidates achieve all required competencies prior to issuing Certification. The course skills checklist must indicate that the Candidate was successful prior to issuing Certification and the certificate numbers issued must be recorded.



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5. Occupational First Aid Instructors 5.1 Policy All agencies must have policies regarding the requirements for initial instructor training and Certification.

5.1.1 The Agency instructor training policies must include, but are not limited to:

a) A dispute resolution policy, b) Candidate first aid experience requirements, c) Instructor Candidate performance expectations and expected outcomes during

their training, d) Instructor Certification requirements, and e) Quality improvement opportunities.

5.1.2 The Agency must provide instructor Candidates enrolled in an instructor training

program with the instructor training completion requirements. The information to be provided should include, but is not limited to, a) Agency expectations of instructor Candidates during training, b) Specific instructor competencies and training completion requirements, c) Instructor Certification requirements, d) Team Teaching opportunities (if any), e) Course materials provided by the Agency and by the instructor Candidate, f) Course cancellation and refund policies, g) Instructor Candidate code of conduct, and h) Terms and Conditions of Instructor Certification.

5.1.3 The Agency is responsible for ensuring the instructor Candidate is qualified with

respect to experience relevant to the subject matter of the course being trained to instruct. Prior to an instructor Candidate being approved to participate in an instructor training program, the Agency is expected to verify the Candidate’s qualifications and to inquire with any references provided by the instructor Candidate. A record of the reference and background check should be on record.

5.1.4 In the event of a dispute between the instructor Candidate and the Agency, the Agency will make every attempt to resolve the dispute relying on the Agency policies and procedures for instructor training.

5.2 Instructor Prerequisites All Instructor Candidates must meet the prerequisites and criteria as outlined below for the course level they wish to instruct. Equivalent course instructor Candidates must meet any additional prerequisites and/or criteria relevant to the Equivalent course deemed to meet or exceed the OFA requirements.



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5.2.1 To be an instructor of an OFA Level 1 or Equivalent course, an instructor Candidate must: a) Be at least 18 years of age prior to instructor training, b) Hold a current/valid Standard First Aid Certificate or higher for a minimum of

at least one year, c) Have successfully participated in a complete OFA Level 1 or OFA Level 1

Equivalent course prior to initial instructor training (i.e., achieve Certification), d) Complete a WorkSafeBC Jurisprudence Package if the jurisprudence content is

not included in the initial instructor training course. Evidence of completion must be included in the instructor Candidate’s training file, and

e) Have been employed as a designated OFA Attendant or first aid responder (at a Standard First Aid level or higher) for at least one year.

5.2.2 To be an instructor of the Transportation Endorsement or Equivalent course, a

Candidate must: a) Hold a valid OFA Level 1 or Equivalent Instructor Certificate for a minimum of

at least one year, b) Hold a valid OFA Level 3 or Equivalent Certificate for a minimum of two years, c) Have successfully participated in a complete TE or Equivalent course not more

than six months prior to initial TE instructor training (i.e., achieve Certification), and

d) Have instructed a minimum of four OFA Level 1 or Equivalent courses within the preceding year.

5.2.3 To be an instructor of an OFA Level 2 or Equivalent course, an instructor Candidate

must: a) Be at least 18 years of age prior to instructor training, b) Hold a current/valid OFA Level 2 Certificate or higher for a minimum of at least

two years, c) Have successfully participated in a complete OFA Level 2 or Equivalent course

prior to initial instructor training (i.e., achieve Certification), d) Complete a WorkSafeBC Jurisprudence Package if the jurisprudence content is

not included in the initial instructor training course. Evidence of completion must be included in the instructor Candidate’s training file,

e) Have been employed as a designated OFA Attendant or first aid responder (at a Standard First Aid level or higher) for at least two years,

f) Hold a current OFA Level 1 or Equivalent Instructor Certificate, and g) Have instructed a minimum of eight OFA Level 1 or Equivalent courses within

the preceding two years. 5.2.4 To be an instructor of an OFA Level 3 or Equivalent course, a Candidate must:

a) Hold a valid OFA Level 3 or Equivalent First Aid Certificate or a current emergency pre-hospital care attendant Certificate or license (course consisting of 70 hours or more) and have held it for at least the preceding four years,

b) Participate in a complete OFA Level 3 or Equivalent course and successfully complete the Evaluation, not more than one year prior to participating in the initial instructor training process (i.e., achieve Certification),



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c) Achieve 85% or greater on each part of the OFA Level 3 or Equivalent Evaluation,

d) Have been employed as a designated OFA Attendant or pre-hospital responder (an advanced level first aid volunteer, ambulance, etc.) for the preceding year,

e) Hold a current OFA Level 1, OFA Level 2 or Equivalent Instructor Certificate, and

h) Have instructed a minimum of twelve OFA Level 1, OFA Level 2, TE or Equivalent courses, or any combination of the above courses, within the preceding two years.

5.2.4.1 An Agency may give consideration to Candidates who have not held an

OFA Level 3 or Equivalent First Aid Certificate for the preceding four years provided the Candidate(s) meet all of the following criteria. Candidates must: i. Have held an OFA Level 3 or Equivalent First Aid Certificate or a current

emergency pre-hospital care certificate or license (course consisting of 70 hours or more) for at least the preceding two years,

ii. Have been a designated OFA Attendant or pre-hospital responder (advanced level first aid volunteer, ambulance paramedic etc.) for the preceding two years,

iii. Participate in a complete OFA Level 3 or Equivalent course and successfully complete the Evaluation, not more than one year prior to participating in the initial instructor training process,

iv. Achieve 85% or greater on each part of the OFA Level 3 or Equivalent Evaluation,

v. Hold a current OFA Level 1, OFA Level 2 or Equivalent Instructor Certificate, and

vi. Have instructed a minimum of twelve OFA Level 1, OFA Level 2, TE or Equivalent courses, or any combination of the above courses, within the preceding two years.

5.3 Instructor Certification Terms and Conditions Instructors must conduct themselves professionally and follow the standards and protocols outlined in the Occupational First Aid Reference and Training Manual, the OFA and/or Equivalent instructor guides, and this OFA Program Standards document.

5.3.1 To ensure a high standard of instructor conduct, instructors must sign a standard application or agreement with the certifying Agency. The application or agreement must include:

a) The Terms and Conditions of Instructor Certification as outlined in the OFA or Equivalent instructor guides, and any other terms and conditions required by the Agency,

b) A statement regarding the instructor’s ability to instruct WorkSafeBC approved courses may be denied or restricted by the Agency or by WorkSafeBC for a breach of a term or condition of the instructor agreement, and



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c) A statement regarding the instructor’s responsibility to follow the lesson plans and the assessment instructions in the approved instructor guide(s).

5.3.2 The Agency must document any situation in which an instructor’s conduct was inconsistent with required procedures and/or instructor terms and conditions, and record what corrective action was taken - or the reasons why if none was taken - and how improvement is to be measured. A copy of an investigation report may be requested by an Officer of WorkSafeBC. Investigation reports must be provided to WorkSafeBC within the time limits set by WorkSafeBC.

5.4 OFA Instructor Training and Certification The following provides an overview of the minimum requirements for all OFA and/or Equivalent instructor training and Certification programs. The focus is on participants becoming familiar with the OFA or Equivalent course content, the presentation of the courses, the formative Evaluation of Candidate first aid skills and the summative Competency Assessments.

5.4.1 The content must be delivered by, and the Candidates must be evaluated by, a qualified instructor trainer (IT).

5.4.2 The qualified IT must have adequate training and relevant IT experience to effectively facilitate the OFA or Equivalent instructor course.

5.4.3 The Agency must have procedures and supporting documentation of all IT training, qualifications and Certification in the Agency files.

5.4.4 The Agency policies that establish the IT qualifications and the IT training procedures must be acceptable to WorkSafeBC.

5.5 Instructor Training

WorkSafeBC must be notified a minimum of fourteen days in advance of all OFA or Equivalent instructor training. Where Practicable, notification should include the training dates, timings, locations, instructor trainer details and any other relevant information regarding the training event.

5.5.1 To become an OFA or Equivalent instructor, Candidates must complete a formal instructor training program acceptable to WorkSafeBC (e.g., Train the Trainer, Instructor Skills Workshop, Instructor Diploma Program, OFA and Equivalent Instructor Schools, etc) followed by team teaching with a qualified instructor or Agency instructor trainer.

5.5.1.1 A formal instructor training program developed by WorkSafeBC or an Equivalent Agency program, must have no fewer than 5 Candidates enrolled to ensure adequate practice by each instructor Candidate.



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5.5.2 The instructor training must be conducted by an Agency IT acceptable to WorkSafeBC. The Agency IT will ensure individuals have demonstrated the competencies listed in section 5.5.4.

5.5.3 The Agency will have a separate file for each instructor Candidate that includes:

a) Documentation of all prerequisites (as outlined in section 5.2)

b) A signed and dated copy of the Instructor Agreement that includes the instructor’s concurrence with the Instructor Certification terms and Conditions (as outlined in section 5.3)

c) A report that includes satisfactory evidence of instructor Candidate aptitude and performance while demonstrating instructor Competency, including the specific competencies listed in section 5.5.4.

5.5.4 Instructor Candidates must demonstrate understanding and basic Competency in each primary skill area listed below;

a) time and classroom management proficiency

b) group discussion facilitation technique

c) media/presentation technique

d) demonstration technique

e) management of Candidate activities

f) critique/positive corrective performance feedback

g) Candidate practice management proficiency

h) Competency Assessment proficiency

i) guided practice management proficiency (OFA Level 2, Level 3 and Equivalent)

j) summative Evaluation proficiency (OFA Level 2, Level 3 and Equivalent)

k) peer assessment management (OFA Level 2, Level 3 and Equivalent), and

l) deliberate practice management (OFA Level 2, Level 3 and Equivalent)

5.5.5 On completion of the OFA Instructor School, Instructor Candidates must be issued a letter by the Agency that conducted the instructor training attesting to the fact that the Candidate attended and either completed, or did not complete the requirements of the applicable instructor training program. The instructor training report must include objective evidence of instructor Candidate performance during the training program. Instructor Candidates that do not initially demonstrate proficiency in the primary skills listed in 5.5.4, should receive a report from the IT that includes any remediation recommendations.

5.5.6 Prior to an Agency issuing instructor Certification authorizing the instructor to start instructing on their own, all Candidates must be assessed for Competency and pass



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the Competency Assessment. Formal Competency Assessment sample forms are available by contacting [email protected]

5.5.7 Following the completion of instructor training and successfully demonstrating Competency, the Agency will issue instructor Certification (either in Certificate or letter form) to the instructor Candidate indicating:

a) The name of the Agency granting the Certification,

b) The name of the instructor (name on their photo ID),

c) The instructor Certification level (OFA Level 1, TE, OFA Level 2, OFA Level 3 or Equivalent courses),

d) The issuance and expiry dates, three-year instructor Certification, and

e) The requirement to conduct a minimum number of courses during the instructor Certification period (as outlined in section 5.7).

5.6 Instructor Competency Instructor Competency Assessments must be conducted at least twice per certification cycle. Instructor Competency Assessments may only be conducted by qualified instructors who possess OFA or Equivalent course instructor Certification that is equal to, or higher than, the course being assessed. This instructor is the instructor of record.

5.6.1 OFA course instructors must not conduct Equivalent courses, and Equivalent course instructors must not conduct OFA courses, unless they have been assessed for Competency and approved to conduct the respective courses.

5.6.2 All Competency Assessments conducted for initial instructor Certification must be

completed on the first course conducted independently by the instructor Candidate. This includes instructor apprenticeships for OFA Level 1 or Equivalent.

5.6.3 Instructors who do not demonstrate competency at the time they are assessed must undergo remedial training and reassessment. The Agency responsible for conducting the assessment is expected to generate a personalized success plan that addresses any instructor weaknesses identified during the assessment, and to provide the success plan to the instructor to study.

5.6.4 The Agency must have a policy that outlines how they will manage serious Candidate complaints or instructor competency issues that may arise between Competency Assessments.

5.6.4.1 If an Agency becomes aware of a problem with an instructor, an

investigation into the problem or complaint must be conducted without undue delay. If the investigation reveals that a complaint is not valid (e.g., is vexatious in nature), additional Competency Assessments will not be required. Investigation reports must be available for inspection on request by an officer of WorkSafeBC.




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5.6.4.2 Pending Competency assurance or the satisfactory resolution of the problem that led to a valid complaint, the instructor may be restricted or denied authorization to instruct WorkSafeBC OFA or Equivalent courses.

5.6.5 Competency Assessments for OFA Level 2, OFA Level 3 and Equivalent instructors must include Evaluation Analysis in accordance with Appendix D.

5.6.6 The Agency must have thorough and objective documentation supporting Competency Assessments. The documentation must specify:

a) The name of the instructor,

b) The name of the course observed,

c) The lesson(s) observed,

d) The assessor’s name,

e) The assessor’s qualifications (e.g., OFA 3 instructor etc.),

f) The assessor’s signature or equivalent,

g) Whether or not the instructor satisfactorily demonstrated the required competencies on the date the assessment was conducted,

h) The name and address of the Agency (if not on letterhead), and

i) The full name and signature or equivalent and the title of the authorized Agency representative (e.g., Agency Owner, Director of Training, CEO, etc.).

5.6.7 Competency Assessments must be conducted by a qualified instructor trained and authorized by an Agency that has exchanged a First Aid Training and Certification Agency Agreement with WorkSafeBC.

5.6.8 The Agency must have a policy regarding the authorization of instructors assigned

to conduct Competency Assessments. The Agency must have written procedures that include assessor training and what the assessor must look for when conducting Competency Assessments. The policies and procedures must include how to write an objective report with adequate supporting evidence.

5.6.9 The course or lessons selected to conduct all instructor Competency Assessments should have 12 OFA Attendant Candidates participating in the course or lessons but must not have fewer than 6.

5.6.10 All Instructors who do not initially demonstrate competency (i.e., within the first

3.5 hours of any OFA 1 or TE course or the first 7 hours of any OFA Level 2, Level 3 or Equivalent course) must be replaced with a qualified instructor for the remainder of the course. If a qualified instructor is not immediately available to assume responsibility for instructing the remainder of the course, OFA or Equivalent certificates must not be issued to any course Candidates.

5.6.11 Instructor Competency Assessments must include completion of an Instructor

Assessment of Competency Form developed by, or acceptable to, WorkSafeBC.



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Agency developed Competency Assessment forms must be approved by Certification Services prior to use.

5.6.12 Instructor Competency Assessment documentation must be objective and provide

satisfactory evidence of all required instructor competencies. The specific competencies that must be demonstrated by all instructors are listed in section 5.5.4.

5.6.13 Competency Assessments for initial OFA Level 1 or Equivalent or TE instructor

Certifications, must be an in-class observation of 7 hours. 5.6.14 Competency Assessments for initial OFA Level 2 or Equivalent instructor

Certifications must be an in-class observation during an OFA Level 2 or Equivalent course. This assessment shall include a minimum of 21 hours of instruction and should include a variety of lessons, deliberate practices. This assessment must include live observation of the full summative practical skills Evaluations (the final 7 hours of the OFA Level 2 or Equivalent course).

5.6.15 Competency Assessments for initial OFA Level 3 or Equivalent instructor Certifications must be an in-class observation during an OFA Level 3 or Equivalent course. This assessment shall include a minimum of 35 hours of instruction and should include a variety of lessons and deliberate practices. This assessment must include live observation of the full summative practical skills Evaluations (i.e., the final 14 hours of the OFA Level 3 or Equivalent course).

Except for the final 14 hours of the OFA Level 3 or Equivalent course, Competency Assessments for initial OFA Level 3 instructor Certification may include the use of technology (e.g., digital video/audio recording, CCTV with live audio or other equally effective means acceptable to WorkSafeBC).

5.6.16 The Certification decision for all OFA Level 2, OFA Level 3 and Equivalent course Candidates in the course being observed for initial instructor Certification, is the responsibility of the qualified instructor of record.

5.6.17 The OFA Level 2, OFA Level 3 or Equivalent course instructor Candidate will conduct the summative Evaluations as per the respective instructor guide and Evaluation instructions, and the qualified instructor conducting the observation will back-stop the Certification decision with their summative Evaluation.

The qualified instructor will conduct the summative Evaluation concurrently without directly interacting with any of the respective OFA course Candidates. The qualified instructor will either confirm or reject the instructor Candidate’s Certification decision before Certification is issued to any course Candidates.

Both summative Evaluation tools/documents must show sufficient evidence that any OFA Level 2, OFA Level 3 or Equivalent course Candidate granted Certification, demonstrated the required competencies to warrant Certification.



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Both summative Evaluations must be consistent (same pass-fail recommendation for all Candidates) to be considered a successful Competency Assessment.

All discrepancies on the Evaluation tools must be explained to the instructor Candidate following the course (e.g., instructor Candidate A did not see one or more course Candidates make a critical error(s) so did not take a deduction, but qualified instructor B did see the error(s) and took a deduction for it, these should be explained to instructor Candidate A).

5.6.18 The instructor Candidate’s training file for OFA Level 2, OFA Level 3 or Equivalent instructors must contain 2 separate sets of summative Evaluation tools/documents. One Evaluation tool completed by the instructor Candidate and the other completed by the qualified instructor of record.

5.6.19 All Competency Assessments must include a review of the instructor’s standards of performance and feedback from OFA and Equivalent Candidates.

5.7 Instructor Certificate Renewal All Instructor Certificates must be renewed every 3 years (the certification cycle) prior to the expiry of the Instructor Certificate. Renewing instructors must be assessed for competency as outlined in section 5.6.

5.7.1 The Agency is responsible for:

a) Instructor Certificate Renewals,

b) Performing and documenting a background check of credentials and work/teaching experience ensuring that the requirements for Renewal are met, and first aid Certification has been continuous, and

c) Ensuring instructor re-Certification is only issued to an instructor who is deemed competent.

5.7.2 To renew an OFA Level 1 or Equivalent Instructor Certificate instructors must:

a) Hold a valid First Aid Certificate as required by section 5.2.1,

b) Hold an OFA Level 1 or Equivalent Instructor Certificate,

c) Maintain acceptable OFA 1 or Equivalent Candidate standards of performance established by the Agency policies,

d) Have taught at least two (2) OFA Level 1 or Equivalent courses per instructor Certification cycle for any approved OFA or Equivalent Agency,

e) Attend instructor updates required by WorkSafeBC and/or the certifying Agency, and

f) Be assessed for competency conducted one on one over 3.5 hours during an OFA Level 1 or Equivalent course, or during an OFA Level 1 Equivalent instructor recertification program approved by WorkSafeBC.

5.7.3 To renew a TE or Equivalent Instructor Certificate instructors must:

a) Hold a valid OFA Level 3 or Equivalent First Aid Certificate,



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b) Hold an OFA Level 1, OFA Level 2 or Equivalent Instructor Certificate,

c) Maintain acceptable TE or Equivalent Candidate performance standards established by the Agency policies,

d) Have taught at least two TE courses per Certification cycle for any approved OFA or Equivalent Agency,

e) Attend instructor updates required by WorkSafeBC and/or the Agency, and

f) Be assessed for competency conducted in person over 3.5 hours during a TE course or during a TE or Equivalent instructor recertification program approved by WorkSafeBC.


a) Have maintained continuous OFA Level 2 or Equivalent first aid Certification for the previous three years,


c) Maintain acceptable OFA or Equivalent Candidate performance standards established by the Agency,

d) Have taught at least two OFA Level 2 or Equivalent courses per instructor Certification cycle for any approved OFA or Equivalent Agency,


f) Be assessed for competency over not less than 14 hours (including the full summative skills Evaluation) during an OFA Level 2 course or during an OFA Level 2 Equivalent instructor recertification program approved by WorkSafeBC.


a) Have maintained continuous OFA Level 3 or Equivalent first aid Certification for the previous four years,


c) Maintain acceptable OFA or Equivalent Candidate performance standards established by the Agency,

d) Have taught at least two OFA Level 3 or Equivalent courses per Certification cycle for any approved OFA or Equivalent Agency,


f) Be assessed for competency over not less than 14 hours (including the full summative skills Evaluation) of an OFA Level 3 or Equivalent course or during an OFA Level 3 Equivalent instructor recertification program approved by WorkSafeBC.



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5.8 Instructor Reinstatement Instructors who do not renew their certificates in accordance with the provisions of section 5.7 and wish to be reinstated must be assessed by the Agency as follows:

5.8.1 For OFA Level 1 or Equivalent instructor Reinstatement, the Agency must ensure the instructor Candidate has:

a) A first aid certificate as required for initial instructor training,

b) Knowledge of current standards and course materials,

c) Signed the Terms and Conditions of Instructor Certification, and

d) Been assessed for competency in an OFA Level 1 or Equivalent course as outlined in section 5.6.

5.8.2 For TE or Equivalent instructor Reinstatement, the Agency must ensure the instructor Candidate has:

a) A first aid certificate as required for initial instructor training,


c) Signed the Terms and Conditions of Instructor Certification,

d) Hold an OFA Level 1 or Equivalent Instructor Certificate and

e) Been assessed for competency in a TE or Equivalent course as outlined in section 5.6.

5.8.3 For OFA Level 2 and Equivalent instructor Reinstatement, the Agency must ensure the instructor Candidate has:

a) Maintained continuous first aid Certification appropriate to the level of instructor Certification being reinstated for the previous three years,


c) Signed the Terms and Conditions of Instructor Certification, and


5.8.4 For OFA Level 3 and Equivalent instructor Reinstatement, the Agency must ensure

the instructor Candidate has:

a) Maintained continuous first aid Certification appropriate to the level of instructor Certification being reinstated for the previous four years,


c) Signed the terms and conditions of instructor Certification, and


5.8.5 Agencies must consider the length of time since the last course taught by the instructor and must require team teaching as often as necessary to determine readiness to be assessed for competency.



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5.8.6 The Agency must objectively document the process used to ensure knowledge of current standards and course materials. This documentation, if requested, must be provided within the time limits set by Certification Services.



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6. Inspections and Audits

6.1 WorkSafeBC rights

For the purpose of ensuring that the terms of the First Aid Training and Certification Agency Agreement, the Workers’ Compensation Act, the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation and the Occupational First Aid Program Standards have been complied with, any person authorized by WorkSafeBC may, without prior notice, and at any time:

a) Inspect and audit the performance and the exercise of the powers, duties and functions of the Agency as they relate to the First Aid Training and Certification Agency Agreement,

b) Conduct in-class observation of instruction and Evaluation,

c) Inspect and make copies of any document relating to the carrying out of the delegated powers, duties and functions of the Agency, including but not limited to reviewing all documentation concerning instruction, training, Competency Assessments, and Certification of instructors,

d) Inspect the premises, supplies and equipment of the Agency, and

e) Interview staff, instructors and Candidates.

6.2 Disclosure of Information

6.2.1 The Training Agency will, disclose to WorkSafeBC information described in the Occupational First Aid Program Standards, including personal information WorkSafeBC considers necessary for the administration of occupational first aid in British Columbia, and will obtain any consent necessary to disclose the required information to WorkSafeBC.

6.2.2 The Training Agency acknowledges that any information disclosed to WorkSafeBC

will be subject to the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.

http://www.bclaws.ca/Recon/document/ID/freeside/96165_00



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Appendix A – OFA Candidate Identification Requirements

1. Acceptable photographic identification:

a) Valid Canadian or U.S. Driver’s License. b) Valid passport c) Valid BC student identification card issued for the current school year d) Employee picture identification card e) Native status picture identification card f) BC photo identification (digital) issued November 1996 or later g) Other Canadian Government Issued Photo I.D.

2. If a Candidate cannot produce appropriate identification, compliance may be achieved if they produce one of the following:

a) A letter from the Candidate’s employer signed by an official of the company. The official’s name will be printed next to or under the signature and will include their contact information and their position within the company. This letter must state that the employee is who he or she claims to be and is at least 16 years of age, or

b) A letter from the sponsoring Agency (if the Candidate is unemployed), signed by an official of the Agency. The official’s name will be printed next to or under the signature and will include their contact information and their position within the Agency. This letter must state that the Candidate is who he or she claims to be and is at least 16 years of age.

3. If a Candidate does not possess valid photographic identification as listed, they must

present one primary and two secondary pieces of identification. The following will be considered acceptable forms of identification:

PRIMARY IDENTIFICATION SECONDARY IDENTIFICATION

Birth certificate

Naturalization certificate

Canadian citizenship ID

Marriage certificate

Canadian record of landing Change of name certificate

Canadian student visa

Parole certificate

PRIMARY IDENTIFICATION SECONDARY IDENTIFICATION

Canadian work visa

Correctional service conditional release card



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Returning resident permit

Valid credit card (if name is on card)

Bank card (if name is on card)

Vehicle registration

Social insurance card (if offered)

BC care card (if offered)

Occupational First Aid Certificate or Equivalent



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APPENDIX B Training Equipment and Supplies

OFA Level 1 and Equivalent Courses - Required Training Equipment and Supplies

Media presentation system E.g., PC Viewer, Laptop/Desktop PC and Speakers.

1 per course and/or classroom

OFA Level 1 instructor guide with presentation - 2018 edition

1 (electronic) edition per instructor, 1 (hard copy) edition per classroom

OFA Level 1 Training Guide – 2018 edition 1 hard copy per student to take away

First Aid/Jump Kit (or container) for course supplies 1 per 2 students

Cold pack 1 per first aid kit

Blankets 152.4w x 213.4L cm 1 per student

Wound cleansing towelletes (14 cm x 19 cm) 3 per student

Hand cleansing towelletes (individually packaged) 5 per student

Assorted adhesive dressings • skin closures and 2.5 cm x 7.5 cm adhesive

dressings

2 per student

Sterile Gauze squares (10 cm x 10 cm) individually packaged

4 per student

Pressure bandages (10 cm x 16.5 cm) with elastic crepe ties

1 per 2 students

Crepe bandage (7.5 cm x 4.5 m) 1 roll per student

Gauze roller bandage (7.5 cm x 1.8 m) 1 roll per student

Adhesive tape (2.5 cm x 4.5 m)

1 roll per 2 students

Drainage dressings (20 cm x 25 cm) 2 per student

Triangular bandage (cloth) min. 1.25 m base 1 per student

Stainless steel scissors (bandage) 14 cm 1 per 2 students

Pocket mask with a new 1-way valve and filter 1 per student

Disposable (Non-powdered) medical gloves sufficient of various sizes to allow ongoing classroom use

Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Trainers with extra set of adult training pads, extra batteries, cloth or abdominal dressing and safety razor

1 per 2 students

Adult resuscitation mannequin and an adequate supply of recommended cleansing solution.

1 per 2 students

Gauze sponges (7.5 cm x 7.5 cm) (100/pkg.) 1 pkg.



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OFA Level 1 and Equivalent Courses - Required Training Equipment and Supplies con’t

First aid records sufficient quantities to allow ongoing classroom use

Quick straps. AKA fracture straps or Zap straps 2 per student

Windlass style Tourniquet 1 per 2 students

Transportation Endorsement (TE) and Equivalent Courses – Required Training Equipment and Supplies

Media presentation system e.g., PC Viewer, Laptop/Desktop PC and Speakers.


TE instructor guide with presentation - 2018 edition 1 (electronic version) per instructor 1 (hard copy version) per classroom

TE training guide – 2018 edition 1 hard copy per student to take away

Blankets 152.4w x 213.4L cm (must provide sufficient warmth and padding)

6 per 3 students

Hard cervical collars – a set of collars consists of one each of tall, regular, short, and no-neck sizes, or 2 adjustable collars

1 set of sized collars or 2 adjustable collars per 3 students

Spine Board with hand holds & 7 securing straps (5 cm x 1.8 m)

1 per 3 students

OFA Level 1 or OFA Level 2 First Aid/Jump Kit (or container) with pocket masks and one-way valve

1 per 2 students

Triangular bandages (cloth) min. 1.25 m base 3 per student

Adhesive tape (5 cm x 4.5 m) (must have adequate tape per roll)

1 roll per 3 students

Hand cleansing towelletes (individually packaged) 100 per class

Drainage dressings 3 per student

Disposable (non-powdered) examination gloves sufficient number of various sizes

Commercially available head immobilizer 1 per spine board

Well-padded basket stretcher with solid bottom 1 per 6 students

Scoop style stretcher with securing straps 1 per 3 students



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Media presentation system e.g., PC Viewer, Laptop/Desktop PC and Speakers (if required).


OFA Level 2 instructor guide with presentation – 2018 edition

1 (electronic version) per instructor, and 1 (hard copy) per classroom/course

OFA Reference and Training Manual – modified for Level 2, 2018 edition

1 hard copy per student to use during training and 1 electronic version to keep


12.5 cm x 22 cm, sterile abdominal dressings, individually pkg.

6 per student

20 cm x 25 cm, sterile abdominal dressings, individually pkg.

6 per student


6 per student

Cold packs 1 per student

Sam splint or quick splint or Equivalent minimum length 60 cm

2 Sam/Quick splints etc. per student

Blankets 152.4w x 213.4L cm (must provide sufficient warmth and padding)

1 per student

Safety glasses or face shield 1 per 2 students

2.5 cm x 4.5 m adhesive tape (must have adequate tape per roll)

1 roll per student

5 cm x 4.5 m adhesive tape (must have adequate tape per roll)

1 roll per student

7.5 cm x 4.5 m crepe roller bandage 2 rolls per student

Cotton triangular bandage, minimum length of base 1.25 m

3 per student

10 cm x 16.5 cm sterile pressure dressings, with crepe ties

1 per student

7.5 cm x 7.5 cm gauze sponges, 100/pkt. 1 per course

7.5 cm x 7.5 cm sterile gauze dressings, individually pkg. (25/box)

1 box per course

10 cm x 10 cm sterile gauze dressings, individually pkg. (25/box)

1 box per course

Cold instrument sterilizer 1 per classroom

Disposable (non-powdered) medical gloves (assorted sizes)

Sufficient sizes to allow ongoing classroom use

Adult resuscitation mannequin and recommended cleansing solution

1 per 3 students



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OFA Level 2 and Equivalent Courses - Required Training Equipment and Supplies cont’d

Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Trainers with extra set of adult training pads, extra batteries, ABD and safety razor

1 per 3 students

Pocket mask with a one-way valve, and oxygen inlet NOTE: for hygiene purposes the pocket mask should be provided to every student to keep.

1 per student

Hand cleansing towelletes, individually packaged 100 per class

Rubber bands (#33) 100 box 1 box per class

Universal scissors 1 per 2 students

11.5 cm stainless steel sliver forceps 1 per class

14 cm stainless steel bandage scissors, blunt 1 per 2 students

Eye cup 1 per 2 students

5 cm x 1.8 m conforming gauze roller bandage 1 roll per student

7.5 cm x 1.8 m conforming gauze roller bandage 1 roll per student

7.5 cm x 7.5 cm or 10 cm x 10 cm non-adherent sterile dressing, individually pkg. 100/box

1 box per class

Sterile adhesive dressings, assorted sizes, individually pkg.: knuckle; fingertip; skin closures, 2.5 cm x 7.5 cm

enough of each variety per class to allow ongoing classroom use

#01 – 4.5 m tubular finger bandages with applicator

1 (cage type) per 2 students

First aid records & patient assessment charts Enough for continuous use throughout the class for all students

Clipboard and pen 1 per First Aid/Jump Kit

Antibacterial liquid soap 1 container per class

Sterile saline (or potable tap water in an appropriate container)

1 500 ml container per 2 students

Sharps container 1 per class

Wash basin 1 per class

Kidney basin 1 per 3 students

First Aid/Jump Kit (or container) for course training supplies

1 per 2 students

Commercially Available wrist/support (S, M, L) 1 of each size per class

Commercially available padded splint, e.g., Sam Splint

1 per student



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Windlass Style Tourniquet, (e.g., CAT) 1 per 2 students

Quick Straps. AKA fracture straps or Zap straps 2 per student


Media presentation system e.g., PC Viewer, Laptop/Desktop PC and Speakers (if required).

1 per classroom and/or course

OFA Level 3 instructor guide and presentation – 2018 edition

1 (electronic version) per instructor, and 1 (hard copy) per classroom/course

OFA Reference and Training Manual – complete 2018 edition

1 hard copy per student during training, and 1 electronic version per student to keep


12.5 cm x 22 cm, sterile abdominal dressings, individually pkg.

6 per student


6 per student


6 per student

Cold packs 1 per student

Sand bags or Equivalent 2 per 3 students

Sam splint or quick splint or Equivalent minimum length 60 cm

2 Sam/Quick splints etc. per student

splints – leg (padded) 1 per student

Blankets 152.4 w x 213.4 L cm (must provide sufficient padding)

6 per 3 students

Safety glasses or face shield 1 per 2 students

2.5cm x 4.5m adhesive tape 1 roll per student

5 cm x 4.5 m adhesive tape 1 roll per student

7.5 cm x 4.5 m crepe roller bandage 2 rolls per student

Cotton triangular bandage, minimum length of base 1.25 m

8 per student

10 cm x 16.5 cm sterile pressure dressings, with crepe ties

1 per 3 students

7.5 cm x 7.5 cm gauze sponges, 100/pkt. 1 per 3 students

7.5 cm x 7.5 cm sterile gauze dressings, individually pkg. (25/box)

1 box per 2 students

10 cm x 10 cm sterile gauze dressings, individually pkg. (25/box)

1 box per 2 students



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Penlight or flashlight with batteries 1 per 3 students

Oropharyngeal airway kit (soft plastic) 1 per 3 students OFA Level 3 and Equivalent Courses – Required Training Equipment and Supplies cont’d Oxygen: portable oxygen therapy units complete with regulator, tubing, nasal cannula and non-rebreathing or partial rebreathing masks and sufficient oxygen to allow practice of physically administering oxygen during scenario practice throughout course

1 unit per 3 students for training, NOTE: for hygiene purposes the nasal cannula should be provided to every student to keep.

Digital pulse oximeter 1 per 3 students

Suction unit (portable, and acceptable for pre-hospital care)

1 per oxygen unit

Manually operated self-inflating bag-valve mask unit with an oxygen reservoir

1 per 3 students

Pocket mask with one-way valve and oxygen inlet NOTE: for hygiene purposes the pocket mask should be provided to every student to keep.

1 per student

Adult resuscitation mannequin (must be capable of a jaw thrust without head tilt) and recommended cleansing solution

1 per 3 students

Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Trainers with extra set of adult training pads, extra batteries, cloth or abdominal dressing and safety razor

1 per 3 students

Spine Board with hand holds & 7 straps (5 cm x 1.8 m)

1 per 6 students

Hard cervical collars – a set of collars consists of one each of tall, regular, short, and no-neck sizes, or 2 adjustable collars

1 set per 3 students

Commercially available head immobilizer 1 per spine board

Sufficiently padded basket stretcher with solid bottom

1 per 6 students

Scoop Style stretcher 1 per 3 students

Disposable non-powdered medical exam gloves, all sizes

sufficient qty to allow ongoing use

Cold instrument sterilizer 1 per classroom

Sterile eye pads, individually pkg. 1 box per class

Hand cleansing towelletes, individually pkg. 100 per class

Cotton tipped applicators (15 cm) 100 per class

Rubber bands (#33) 100 box 1 box per class



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Universal scissors 1 per 2 students

11.5 cm stainless steel sliver forceps 1 per class

14 cm stainless steel bandage scissors, blunt 1 per 2 students

Eye cup 1 per 2 students

OFA Level 3 and Equivalent Courses – Required Training Equipment and Supplies cont’d 5 cm x 1.8 m conforming gauze roller bandage 1 roll per student

7.5 cm x 1.8 m conforming gauze roller bandage 1 roll per student

7.5 cm x 7.5 cm or 10 cm x 10 cm non-adherent sterile dressing, individually pkg. 100/box

1 box per class

Sterile adhesive dressings, assorted sizes, individually pkg.: knuckle; fingertip; skin closures 2.5 cm x 7.5 cm individuals

Adequate numbers of each variety to allow for ongoing practice per class

#01 – 4.5 m tubular finger bandages with applicator (cage type)

1 per 2 students

Tongue depressors 48 per class

First aid records & patient assessment charts Enough for continuous use throughout the class for all students

Clipboard and pen 1 per First Aid/Jump Kit

Antibacterial liquid soap 500 ml per class

Sterile saline (or potable tap water in an appropriate container)

500 ml per 2 students

Sharps container 1 per class

Wash basin 1 per class

Kidney basin 1 per 3 students

First Aid/Jump Kit (or container) for course supplies 1 per 2 students

*optional* Commercially available leg splints, excluding traction splints

1 per 2 students

Commercially available wrist brace/support (S, M, L)

1 set per class

Commercially available foam padded splint. AKA SAM Splint

1 per student

Windlass Style Tourniquet 1 per 2 students



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Appendix C - Conducting the Practical Evaluation At the beginning of any OFA or Equivalent summative practical skill Evaluation, Candidates must be informed of the Certification requirements, the expectations of the Candidates during the assigned Evaluation scenarios and the summative practical skill Evaluation procedures. During the Evaluation preamble, instructors must remind Evaluation Candidates to conduct themselves in as near a field-like manner as possible.

1. The Agency must have Evaluation equipment and supplies that meet or exceed the OFA training equipment and supplies listed in Appendix B of the Occupational First Aid Program Standards when conducting OFA and/or OFA Equivalent Evaluations.

Instructors are expected to position themselves appropriately during the summative practical skill Evaluation while the Evaluation is underway. The primary objective of instructor positioning is to facilitate clear observations of Candidate performance when conducting the summative Evaluation. Instructors must be particularly attentive throughout the summative practical skill Evaluation in order to maximize critical observations of the Candidate being assessed. Instructors must provide timely feedback to Candidates. Instructors must be prepared to intervene promptly during a practical scenario (for health and safety reasons).

Instructors are expected to maximize the activities of all Candidates during the summative practical skill Evaluation to ensure Candidates that are not being evaluated are kept busy practicing.

Instructors are required to demonstrate effective time and people management skills regarding the assignment and timing of summative practical skill Evaluation scenarios. This is referred to as the flow of the Evaluation. Instructors are to ensure time used efficiently.

Instructors are required to interact with, to observe, to assess activities and to respond to Candidates in a timely manner. The instructor is expected to conduct the Evaluation one on one and to ensure that all Candidates are evaluated on all required scenarios and skills in a reasonable amount of time.

Instructors should explain how errors made by a Candidate may relate to real world consequences. They should be able to justify and explain marks assessed against the candidate (if any) as a result of the errors made. Debriefing must be conducted confidentially.

The instructor must explain the rationale for any deductions and must allow time for questions and the options for appeals, remedial training (if available) and re-Evaluation. Candidates who fail the Evaluation must wait at least 24 hours before a second attempt. If they fail a second time, they must repeat the full course of instruction before another Evaluation can be attempted (no exceptions).

The Agency must have a policy that addresses OFA and/or OFA Equivalent Candidate and instructor conduct and expectations during a summative practical skill Evaluation.

Instructors must ensure the integrity and protection of the Evaluation materials.

The instructor must ensure that Candidates are aware that the use of any electronic device of any kind is prohibited during an Evaluation. Candidates must also be informed that unnecessary items must be stowed away. (Unnecessary items include but are not limited to; training guides, Textbooks, crib notes, electronic devices of any kind etc.).



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Cheating during any Evaluation must not be tolerated. Invigilators and instructors must caution Candidates about the consequences of cheating and must be wary of Candidates who appear to be cheating. (E.g., providing written Evaluation solutions or solutions to summative practical skill Competency Assessments, Candidates coaching each other, reviewing Textbooks, training guides or using crib notes or electronic devices etc.).

The instructor must advise the Candidates during the introduction of the Evaluation session that the Evaluation will be terminated for any Candidate(s) discovered cheating.

It is expected that all instructors will be fair, impartial and perceptive, to use discretion, non-disclosure language and to encourage Candidates to completed the full Evaluation regardless of their performance in any single scenario.

Instructors must be cognizant regarding anxiety that can be experienced by Candidates during Competency Assessments. The instructor must be aware of critical triggers that may seem insignificant and/or routine to the instructor but may be very complex and stressful to the Candidates.

Instructors must be attentive to their tone and inflection of voice, their body language including eye contact, and their positioning during the Evaluation.

The instructor should allow for experiential learning debriefing following a single Evaluation scenario (allowing the participant to reflect on what happened). The instructor should encourage all Candidate to complete the course and any remaining Evaluation scenarios regardless of a failed attempt of a single scenario.

2. Evaluation Material

It is the instructor’s responsibility to ensure that all critical skills are evaluated for a class of Candidates. To this end, the instructor must use the Evaluation materials as they were intended to be used by WorkSafeBC or the Equivalent course provider. Summative practical skill Evaluation scenarios must not be modified. Instructors are expected to adhere to the Grading Standards, the applicable sections of the Occupational First Aid Program Standards and the directives of WorkSafeBC regarding the acceptable use of the Evaluation materials. For the practical skills Competency Assessments, instructors must utilize a different summative practical skill Evaluation set for each Candidate to ensure most critical skills taught in the course are assessed. One Evaluation scenario set is not to be reused for a single class or on a single Evaluation schedule. The instructors are not to give the student a scenario that they practiced in class as an Attendant as their summative practical Evaluation.



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Summative Evaluation Overview Notes to the instructor: On Day 10 of the OFA-3 course you will deliver two practical Summative Evaluation scenarios to each student, a trauma scenario and a medical scenario. On day 5 of the OFA 2 course, you will deliver one practical Summative Evaluation scenario to each student, a trauma scenario. The day will start with a preamble (see below), laying out your expectations and the flow of the day. Once the preamble has been delivered the students will be self-directed, working in small groups using their Skill Sheets and Deliberate Practice scenarios to guide their practice. The instructor will then focus on one group at a time, proctoring one exam scenario to each student in the group (starting with the trauma scenarios). Once this group is complete they will return to self-guided practice and the instructor will rotate to examine another group. This process will be repeated until all students have received all of their Summative Evaluations. Finally, the day will end with the closing of the course and individual one on one feedback sessions. Pre-Exam Preparation: Thorough preparation is extremely important to the successful delivery of the Summative Evaluation scenarios. This is especially true for a larger class. Consider the following: Evaluation Materials When preparing for the Day 10 Evaluations you will need: • An exam binder set up with:

o One Summative Skills Assessment Tool per student (front page pre-filled out). It is important to be familiar with the content of this tool before you conduct Evaluations, so that it doesn’t become a barrier to observing the student’s performance during their scenarios (i.e. you don’t want to be looking down at it all the time and miss something a student does).

o Two pre-selected Summative Evaluation scenarios per student (one trauma and one medical), organized in the binder together with that student’s Assessment Tool. It is important to have pre-read these scenarios to ensure that you are thoroughly familiar with their content (for reasons described above).

• Two pens. • Any props or other resources required for scenario delivery. • A timing device (watch, clock, etc).



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Location in the classroom When selecting a location in the classroom to conduct the Evaluation scenarios there are a couple of approaches you can take: 1. Pick a specific location where you can remain in one spot for the day. This offers the

benefit of having all equipment laid out exactly how you like, a table for you to write on, etc. You would then have the various small groups move to your location in the room when it is their turn to be evaluated.

Or,

2. You can physically circulate from group to group as you deliver the Evaluation scenarios. This has the benefit of not requiring any extra equipment other than that used by the students already.

Whichever approach you take, it is vitally important that the Evaluations are conducted in a location and manner that is not distracting to the students. It is of the utmost importance that students are provided with an environment that allows them to focus on their scenarios while being evaluated. Scenario Timing: Day 10 is an 8 hour day, minus 1 hour for coffee breaks and lunch, which leaves you with 7 hours to conduct both rounds of the Summative Evaluations (up to 24 scenarios). Strong time management and organizational skills are crucial to the success of the Evaluations. You must begin the day well prepared and keep the students moving effectively as you rotate through the class delivering Summative Evaluations. Scenario One Timing (the trauma scenario) All of the trauma scenarios used for Evaluation feature RTC patients, with minimal treatments performed at the end of the scenario. This, along with the fact that students are now using scoop stretchers to package the patient instead of rigid long spine boards, means that the timing of an average trauma scenario will be as follows:

• Equipment check and initial scenario presentation: 2 minutes • Primary Survey (possibly with critical interventions): 2 to 4 minutes • Transport Decision and Patient Packaging: 6 to 8 minutes • Secondary Survey: 6 to 8 minutes • TOTAL SCENARIO TIME: 16 to 22 minutes

Scenario Two Timing (the medical scenario – OFA 3 only) All of the patients in the Scenario Two exam bank are non-trauma and require no Spinal Motion Restriction. This means that packaging these patients for transport is quite fast (often just using a scoop stretcher with minimal strapping to lift them off the ground and into the stretcher). Additionally, instructors now have the option of shortening Scenario Two. The goal of any Evaluation process should be to measure a student’s performance against a defined standard. While each scenario requires different care during the primary survey, the reality is that the secondary survey is usually consistent from patient to patient. This provides you with an opportunity to shorten Scenario Two in some cases (i.e., have it end after transport) while still meeting the Evaluation goals.



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Here are two examples of how this may work: Lindsay did an excellent job on scenario one, demonstrating a thorough and complete Priority Action Approach. It would be entirely permissible to have Lindsay’s second scenario end after transport, as Lindsay has already demonstrated competency in the secondary survey.

Or: Lindsay was very nervous and hesitant during scenario one. The timing of the vital sign assessments was slightly off and Lindsay required coaching to remove the patient’s shoes and socks during the head to toe examination. In this case, it may be appropriate to make both of Lindsay’s scenarios full calls, to observe the secondary survey a second time. Having the option of shortening scenario two means that the timing of an average medical scenario will be as follows:

• Equipment check and initial scenario presentation: 2 minutes • Primary Survey (possibly with critical interventions): 2 to 4 minutes • Transport Decision and Patient Packaging: 4 to 6 minutes • TOTAL SCENARIO TIME: 8 to 12 minutes

Overall Timing of the Day For a class of 12 students, your allocation of time during Day 10 might break down as follows: Activity Timing

Preamble 15 minutes

12 full scenarios, averaging 20 minutes in length each 240 minutes

12 shortened scenarios, averaging 12 minutes in length each 145 minutes

Coffee break and lunch 60 minutes

Closing discussion and delivery of exam results 20 minutes

TOTAL TIME 480 minutes You can see that evaluating a class of 12 students will still be a very busy day for the instructor, but it is achievable with good organization and time management. Classes that are smaller than 12 students become easier to evaluate of course, as you have more flexibility with the timing of the day. Beginning the day – The Exam Preamble: It is important to properly set the climate when you start the final day. Students will naturally be nervous, especially first time students, as it is an Evaluation day. Starting the day with a supportive talk that clearly explains your expectations, and answers any questions they may have, is incredibly valuable to the students. A thorough preamble, done with the full class at very beginning of the day, may include the following information:



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• A reminder to the students that, despite this being their Summative Assessment day, it

really is just day 10 of the course. The scenarios used on Day 10 are all things they have done over the last 9 days. There should be no surprises.

• A discussion on how the grading system works (i.e., start with 100%, deductions taken for errors, must receive a minimum of 70% to successfully complete the practice Evaluation).

• That, for each scenario, the OFA 3 student will be working more than 40 minutes from medical aid and will have a fully equipped ETV with communication capabilities.

• That, for OFA 2 students, they will be the attendant in an urban workplace and will have reasonable access to BCEHS resources. Usually within 20 minutes of the activation of the WERP.

• That the student will have at least one physical helper during their scenario and can verbalize other helpers as required. Note: All helpers will be considered untrained.

• For each scenario, remind the students that you will give them an opportunity to check their equipment while you prepare their patient, and then you will provide them with initial scenario information. The students will have time to ask any Scene Assessment questions, and/or clarifying questions, as needed. Timing will start when the student physically starts their scenario.

• Remind the students that this is a practical Evaluation, so physically demonstrate skills as much as possible once they are into their scenarios (i.e. turn on the O2 units, have scissors in hand when demonstrating clothing removal, etc.).

• Inform the students that they will be required to make, and inform you, of the transport decision for each of their patients. If this decision is RTC the student will be expected to physically package their patient appropriately for transport (usually on a scoop stretcher). Once this is done the student can verbalize loading into the ETV.

• After the Transport Decision the student will usually be expected to conduct a full Secondary Survey. This will involve documenting their findings on the Patient Assessment Chart, and that all paperwork generated during their Evaluation becomes part of the Evaluation record and will be collected at the end.

• Remind students that they will be responsible for continuous monitoring of their patient, including re-assessing critical interventions and conducting ABC assessments and Vital Signs as appropriate for their patient.

• Once each scenario is complete, the student will be responsible for completing their paperwork for your collection.

• Instruct students that if they realize they have forgotten to do something that they should go back and do it.

• Finally, remind the students that you are always open and accessible during the exam. If they require clarification, or for you to repeat something, they only have to ask.

• Good luck everyone! Let’s get started… Scenario delivery: When delivering each individual scenario, it is important to: • Provide the student a short opportunity before the scenario to ensure their equipment is

ready. • Provide the initial scenario information, then give the student a short period of time to

process it, and finally allow the student to ask any questions about it that they want to ask (i.e., the Scene Assessment questions).

• Once the scenario starts, ensure that you have clear sightlines throughout the scenario so that you can clearly observe the student’s performance.

• Note critical times, i.e., the start of the Primary Survey, the end of the Primary Survey, transportation times, Vitals Sign assessments, etc.



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• Note the sequencing of steps performed. • Allow the student time to conduct each step properly and report their findings to you

(demonstrate competency), then provide the scenario specific information for that step to the student in a timely fashion.

• Be prepared to repeat information as necessary to ensure learner clarity. • Once the scenario is complete, direct students to clean up right away while you prep for

the next scenario (consistent time management).

Providing Evaluation results to students: Each student should receive one on one feedback at the end of the Summative Evaluations. This feedback should include: • A detailed breakdown of the student’s performance on the Evaluation. • The awarding of their certificate (if they are successful). • A plan for remediation if they are unsuccessful. Our recommendation is to close the class formally and then debrief the Evaluation results with each student. This way, each student is free to leave immediately after receiving their results.



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Appendix D – Evaluation Analysis

1. Evaluation Analysis for Instructor Competency Evaluation Analysis must be conducted for all instructors; the Agency will have a policy that addresses Evaluation Analysis.

1.1 Evaluation Analysis An analysis should be conducted at the end each course to investigate the following: course

administration documentation required by WorkSafeBC is accounted for, is completed correctly, and document contents are legible. The qualitative analysis conducted as part of OFA 2, OFA 3 and Equivalent course instructor Competency Assessments should look for trends in instructor errors and irregularities, adherence to Competency Assessment standards and required course administration procedures.

a) This analysis may be conducted by any qualified instructor designated by the Agency. This person must be made aware of the Agency obligation for confidentiality and protection of information and must be trained to scrutinize the documentation for the required administrative information.

b) Administrative analysis conducted at the end of every course would help the Agency to quickly identify and, if necessary, correct any obvious challenges. It would be conducted when the course files are being closed and would focus on the appearance of the course administration records and other relevant course documents. For example; do a quick scan of the course documents to determine if they are all accounted for, completed correctly by the instructor and the Candidates and the general legibility of documents.

c) Evaluation documents should be reviewed to establish whether grading tools were completed appropriately and with due care and attention to detail.

d) The Evaluation grading tools must indicate a pass or fail, the final Evaluation results must be recorded and a certificate number must be recorded on the course document(s) etc.

a) An analysis is a part of the recertification process for all instructors is and is conducted in combination with the instructor assessment of Competency.

b) The instructor conducting the analysis must carry out a complete review of a random but representative sampling of practical Evaluation grading tools since the recertifying instructor’s previous assessment of Competency. The Evaluation documents reviewed will help to determine whether there appears to be consistent errors.

c) The analysis will also establish whether deductions assessed against Candidates are consistent with the Grading Standards in the course instructor guides and the specific summative Evaluation instructions (if any), and whether the deductions are recorded with adequate explanation etc.

d) Evaluation Analysis will provide valuable information regarding the instructor’s performance during the Competency Assessments and how it relates to OFA Candidate Certification.

e) The analysis may reveal that OFA Candidates were erroneously certified (or were not certified when they should have been) requiring the Agency to take action without delay to correct the problem.



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f) Individual Agency policy will describe the expectation parameters for instructor performance.

g) The Agency must inform the instructor of any problems or concerns discovered during an Evaluation Analysis without undue delay.

h) If the Agency does not plan on continuing to utilize an instructor due to challenges discovered during Evaluation Analysis, and the Agency has no plans to conduct remedial training for that instructor, the Agency must inform WorkSafeBC without undue delay.

2.2 General readability Evaluation Analysis must address at least the following areas:

a) The original Evaluation tools should be legible.

b) There should be an easily identifiable system of sequencing the actions of the OFA or Equivalent Candidate during each scenario on the Evaluation tool.

c) Each sequence step recorded on the Evaluation tools should list what was done by the Candidate at that point, including the time a step was done (as indicated in the Grading Standards contained in the instructor and training guides) and should correspond to the major steps in the first aid protocol for that injury.

d) There should be an indication if a Candidate was prompted or coached at points throughout the patient management for each scenario.

1.3 Time frames Times must be recorded when each scenario started and when the Candidate performed various required skills or assessments as indicated in the Grading Standards contained in the course instructor guides. This includes recording the time a Candidate may have performed an inappropriate assessment, intervention or treatment which could result in an unsuccessful summative Evaluation. The times required on the Evaluation marking sheet include, but are not limited to the following:

a) The beginning of the scene assessment or scenario,

b) The beginning and completion of the primary survey,

c) When critical interventions were conducted,

d) The initial ABC reassessment and all subsequent reassessments,

e) When rapid transport securing was completed and/or when an ambulance called,

f) The time of the initial vital signs assessment and all reassessments,

g) The completion of the head to toe Evaluation,

h) The completion of non-critical treatments (bandages, splints and slings etc.),

i) Non-RTC patient packaged and/or ready for transport, and

j) The end of the scenario.

1.4 Deductions

a) Mark deductions must be recorded in the appropriate space on the Evaluation tools and must correspond to the major steps of the scenario.



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b) There must be clear, concise explanations recorded for each deduction made.

c) The deduction must be consistent with the Grading Standards in the instructor guides and the Occupational First Aid Training and Reference Manual and the specific scenario grading instructions (if any).

d) If the deduction is not consistent with the Grading Standards found in the instructor guides, specific reasons must be recorded as to why the appropriate deduction was not assessed.

1.5 Adherence to the appropriate First Aid protocols The objective of the practical summative Evaluation is to determine if a Candidate has adhered to the appropriate first aid protocols during all phases of patient management. For each Candidate performance it must be evident, from analyzing the Evaluation grading sheets for each instructor, that:

a) Protocols were performed in the appropriate sequence,

b) Time-sensitive protocols were accomplished within the allowable time frames,

c) All required critical interventions were performed,

d) All appropriate assessments were performed,

e) The correct interpretations of the assessments were made,

f) No injury aggravation occurred during the management,

g) RTC decisions were made correctly and at the appropriate time, and

h) All treatments accomplished the objectives for the assigned scenario.

3. Expectations of Instructor’s

It is the Agency’s responsibility to correct unacceptable instructor behavior. Failure to do so may result in a breach of the Agency Agreement and the Agency Agreement being revoked.

2.1 Unacceptable instructor behavior includes but is not limited to;

a) Failure to instruct or evaluate OFA or Equivalent courses in accordance with the approved instructor guide(s) or Grading Standards,

b) Failure to abide by the Terms and Conditions of Instructor Certification,

c) Habitual breaches of the Agency’s classroom, instructor and code of conduct and/or the policies of the training Agency.

2.2 An Agency may conclude that an instructor is not suitable for instructing or evaluating

courses developed or approved by WorkSafeBC. This conclusion may be based on one or more unsuccessful Competency Assessments, a breach of the Instructor Certification Terms and Conditions or continued violations of the Agency’s classroom, instructor code of conduct, a serious breach of this Occupational First Aid Program Standards, or continued quality of instruction complaints from Candidates or employers.



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The Agency must document the issue(s) that led the Agency to conclude that an instructor is not suitable for instructing WorkSafeBC developed or approved courses. The documentation must include the instructor’s response to the complaint(s) (if any). Documentation must be kept in the instructor’s file in accordance with section 3, Maintenance and Management of Records. These records must be submitted to WorkSafeBC upon request, within the time limits set by WorkSafeBC.

2.3 The Agency must inform the instructor without delay if serious instructional quality complaints have been made. Instructors must be given the opportunity to address any complaints with the Agency owner or authorized representative.



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Appendix E – Accommodation Guidelines

1. Policies and Procedures A training Agency must have policies and procedures that are consistent with the Occupational First Aid Program Standards for students who may require accommodation.

1.1 If a Candidate requires accommodation it is important to document: a) Why the Candidate requires accommodation?

b) What the accommodation consists of?

c) How long was accommodation necessary?

2. Practical Competency Assessments Accommodation for all Candidates and conditions is not always possible in occupational first aid classes. The courses are physically demanding and require prolonged kneeling, working in stooped positions, and rolling patients into various positions on the floor. Depending on the level and length of the course, physical demands can become rigorous. In OFA Level 3 and Transportation Endorsement and/or Equivalent courses, maneuvering and securing a patient for transport under time constraints is very strenuous activity.

2.1 Accommodation may be made for participants who indicate a problem with some of the aforementioned activities. For example;

a) A claustrophobic Candidate may be excused from being a patient in practice sessions requiring him/her to be packaged for transport.

b) Participants may be permitted to adopt “comfort” positions on the floor to avoid kneeling or stooping for prolonged periods, even though the positions may not facilitates optimum patient care.

2.2 Regardless of accommodation made during the class, participants will be required to

demonstrate specific skills according to an accepted standard before Certification is issued. It is essential for the instructor to objectively document the circumstances and extent to which accommodation was made.

3. Candidate Fitness

All OFA 2, OFA 3 and/or Equivalent course Candidates must complete a Statement of Fitness prior to the start of OFA 2, OFA 3 and/or Equivalent courses. Statements of fitness must be reviewed by the Agency for errors and/or omissions prior to Certification being granted.

3.1 Where it becomes obvious during a course of instruction that the OFA Candidate has medical, physical or psychological challenges, the Agency must ensure that the Candidate is aware of the requirements of Certification.

https://www.worksafebc.com/en/resources/health-safety/information-sheets/ofa-statement-fitness?lang=en



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3.2 The Candidate should be advised to review the WorkSafeBC medical certificate of fitness form 55m5, prior to OFA or Equivalent Certification being granted.

Form 55m5 Medical Certificate of Fitness is a form acceptable to WorkSafeBC and may be found at the following URL https://www.worksafebc.com/en/forms-resources#q=55m5&sort=relevancy&f:language-facet=[English]

4. Theory OFA Level 1, Level 2, Level 3 and Equivalent courses all include closed book written knowledge Evaluations. Statistics have shown that OFA Level 2 and OFA Level 3 students who are successful in the practical are generally successful in the written. The exceptions are typically students the instructor has identified as having a learning disability, low levels of literacy, or English as an additional language.

Accommodation for the written Evaluation is more likely to be required for Level 1 Candidates. It may be more difficult for the instructor to determine a Candidate’s language skills during the day prior to the written Evaluation. Instructors should ensure Candidates are aware of the written Evaluation early in the day and remind them throughout the course to allow an opportunity to approach them privately with concerns.

4.1 Criteria for Conducting an Oral Written Evaluation:

a) The Candidate has informed the instructor or the Agency of a problem with written Evaluations, the instructor believes that the Candidate’s performance on the mid-course quizzes (OFA Level 2 and OFA Level 3) is a result of a learning disability, Evaluation anxiety, low levels of literacy, or English as a learned language,

b) The instructor has documentation providing evidence that the Candidate has shown an understanding of the concepts and demonstrated the ability to apply the skills during the course,

c) An OFA Level 1 or Equivalent Candidate will have demonstrated Competency in each of the critical skill areas during the course. An OFA Level 1 or Equivalent oral Evaluation may be conducted by any OFA or Equivalent instructor

d) In the case of an OFA Level 2, OFA Level 3 or Equivalent Candidate, he or she has demonstrated Competency of the practical requirements. In the event an OFA Level 2, OFA Level 3 or Equivalent Candidate requires an oral Evaluation, it should be conducted by the course instructor or another certified OFA Level 3 instructor.

5. Procedure for Conducting an Oral Theory Evaluation:

The recommended approach to determine a Candidate’s understanding of first aid concepts is to ask the question (stem) without providing the responses (distracters).

a) Have the Candidate provide the answer in his or her own words and compare to correct response,

b) It would be beneficial from the Candidate’s perspective to ask all of the questions that were answered incorrectly (providing a more accurate measure of the Candidate’s

http://www.worksafebc.com/en/resources/health-safety/forms/occupational-first-aid-medical-certificate-of-fitness-report-of-examining-physician-form-55m5?lang=en



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knowledge). However, from a practical perspective this may take longer than actually necessary, and

c) When or if the Candidate correctly answers enough incorrect questions that, together with already correct questions, a passing grade is achieved (70%), Certification can be awarded.

6. Oral Evaluation Results The Evaluation or class file must show the outcome of the oral Evaluation including:

a) What questions were altered,

b) The reason for altering the question(s),

c) The outcome (correct/incorrect answer) of the reworded question(s), and

d) The name and signature of the instructor who conducted the oral Evaluation.

6.1 The oral theory Evaluation answer sheet and any changes made to the outcome must be dated and signed by the Candidate and kept in the class or Evaluation file.

Occupational Program First Aid Standards - WorkSafeBC

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