Students – what to expect

Canadian Red Cross Training Partner

Courses are based on a combination of teaching techniques that include:

  • DVD support (video footage)
  • PowerPoint presentation
  • Instructional Posters
  • Skills demonstration and practice
  • Scenarios
  • Exercises
  • Class discussions and Q&A

Practical hands-on components are supported by a variety of training materials, based on course requirements, such as mannequins for CPR, AED (Automated External Defibrillator) trainers, bandages, splinting materials, barrier devices, first aid kits, auto-injector trainers and inhalers.

On the Day

Here’s an overview of the course which you can read beforehand, if you wish.
Remember to pack government issued photo-ID. If you don’t have a Canadian issued driver’s license, here’s a list of what WorkSafe BC allows us to accept. Bring one or more of these with you!
On the day, try to turn up about 10 minutes early. There’s paperwork to be completed and often complimentary tea & coffee on site! The course itself consists of 7 hrs teaching along with 2 15 minute coffee breaks and a half hour for lunch. In total you can expect to be with us for 8 hrs (minimum!) but don’t worry – there’s plenty to do and the time will fly past.
The course does involve practical work. That means you’ll be rolled around the floor by your classmates. Be prepared to do this. Yes the outfit you wore for the last office party was nice, but we’re saying it just might not be appropriate for today.

Assessment & Certification

For OFA1, WorkSafe BC requires three types of assessment on the day
1. Practical skills assessment. We’ll be watching you all day and you need to be good. You need to be especially good at the life-saving skills. If we get to the end of the day and you haven’t convinced your instructor that you could save their life, you won’t pass.
2. Completion of a First Aid Record. Yes, you have to complete one and it has to be written in English.
3. Written exam. The Red Cross course gives you a 25 question, multiple-choice exam. Don’t worry about it, we’ll cover everything on the day. If you’re the kind of person who does worry – here are a few sample questions (which aren’t on the real exam) to give you an idea.
You need to pass all three stages. For the exam, you’ll need to get 70%. Yes, we have failed people, so make sure you’re attentive on the day!
Certification is issued on the day of course completion and is valid for 3 years from the day of completion.
CPR & First Aid