First Aid Training in Quebec: The Complete 2026 Guide

Reading time: approximately 5 minutes

First aid training in Quebec is much more than just a course: it's a concrete skill that can make the difference between life and death in the first few minutes of an emergency. Whether you are an employer, self-employed worker, or individual, understanding the available options — and legal obligations — is essential in 2026.

Why take first aid training?

Accidents happen without warning, at work as well as at home. A trained person can control severe bleeding, administer Heimlich maneuvers in case of choking, or keep a cardiac arrest victim alive while waiting for help.

Beyond immediate emergency, being first aid certified gives you confidence and composure when it truly matters. It's a skill you don't forget — and one that might someday save someone you love.

👉 After your training, make sure you have the right equipment on hand: check out the workplace first aid kits at SuperMedic.

Employer obligations according to the CNESST

In Quebec, the Regulation respecting minimum standards for first aid and first response requires every employer to maintain a minimum number of first responders in the workplace, depending on the size of the establishment and the sector of activity.

Here's what you need to know as an employer:

• The number of required first responders varies depending on the number of workers per shift and the type of industry (construction, mining, offices, etc.).
• CNESST-recognized training lasts 16 hours and must be delivered by an accredited organization.
• Certification is valid for 3 years. Upon expiration, the first responder must retake the full 16-hour course.
• The employer must cover the worker's absence from work, travel expenses (within a 40 km radius), and the costs of setting up first aid services.
• Since October 1, 2025, new occupational health and safety obligations apply to all establishments in Quebec, with strengthened prevention mechanisms depending on the size of the company.

Good news for businesses: the CNESST directly subsidizes training from accredited providers. You therefore do not have to pay for the course fees.

The CNESST subsidy: how does it work?

The CNESST provides financial assistance directly to the training organization — you do not have to request reimbursement. The amount is calculated as a percentage of the number of workers, according to your sector:

• Establishments (general sector): 5% of the number of workers
• Construction: 10% of the number of workers
• Mining and forestry management: 20% of the number of workers

This subsidy is valid for a 3-year period. If certifications have already been funded in the last three years, they are deducted from the calculation. Any excess is billed directly to the employer.

Important: the subsidy applies only to the standard 16-hour Workplace First Aid training. Other courses, such as CPR or short-duration training, are not covered.

Types of training available in Quebec

There are several levels of first aid training available in Quebec, depending on your needs and context:

• Workplace First Aid (16 hours): The CNESST-regulated training, offered over two days. It covers medical emergencies, injuries, CPR/AED, choking, shock, and bleeding. Subsidized for employers.
• General First Aid / Standard First Aid (16-20 hours): Offered by organizations such as the Canadian Red Cross or St. John Ambulance. Recognized in various professional and extracurricular contexts.
• Emergency First Aid (8 hours): A condensed one-day training, ideal for low-risk workers or individuals who want a quick refresher.
• CPR/AED only: Short training (a few hours) focused on cardiopulmonary resuscitation and the use of a defibrillator. Useful as a supplement or for specific sectors.

👉 Do you want to complete your equipment with a defibrillator? Explore the AED collection at SuperMedic.

Where to take first aid training in Quebec?

The CNESST publishes a provincial list of accredited training organizations, categorized by region. These include:

• St. John Ambulance (SJA)
• The Canadian Red Cross
• L'École de Secourisme du Québec
• Le Centre de formation en secourisme du Québec (CFSQ)
• Formation Urgence Vie
• GardaWorld Campus (Montreal)
• And several dozen accredited regional organizations across the province

The average cost of a 16-hour workplace training is generally between $115 and $170 + taxes per person, all-inclusive (educational materials and first responder practical guide). For employers eligible for the CNESST subsidy, this portion is covered directly by the Commission.

To find an organization near you, consult the first aid section of the CNESST website.

After training: getting properly equipped for effective intervention

Training without adequate equipment is a bit like knowing survival gestures without having the material to apply them. Once certified, your workplace must have a kit that complies with current standards.

A well-stocked first aid kit should include various bandages, sterile compresses, protective gloves, a CPR mask, elastic bandages, and a survival blanket, among other items.

👉 Explore the complete SuperMedic collection to find the kit adapted to your team size and sector of activity. All our work kits are designed to meet the requirements of Quebec workplaces.

In summary

First aid training in Quebec is both a legal obligation for employers and a concrete investment in everyone's safety. Whether you are looking to comply with CNESST requirements, renew your certification, or simply feel prepared in an emergency, resources are numerous and accessible across the province.

Don't wait for an accident to happen to act. Plan your training now — and make sure you have the equipment you need to put your learning into practice.

This article is for educational purposes only. In case of emergency, dial 911.