Create a first aid record as soon as possible after treatment. Be sure to include:

• The full name and occupation of the worker

• The date and time of the incident

• The date and time the injury or exposure was reported

• The names of witnesses

• A description of how the injury occurred

• A description of the injury or exposure

• A description of the first aid treatment given

• A description of actions taken after treatment (for example, whether they returned to work, how they were transported to medical care, arrangements to follow up)

• The signature of the first aid attendant or person who gave first aid

• The signature of the worker receiving treatment, if possible

As an employer, you must report a work-related injury or illness to WorkSafeBC within 72 hours if the worker received medical treatment in addition to first aid, or if they lost time from work due to the incident.

You must also support the injured worker through their claim and return-to-work process.

See Report a workplace injury or disease and How employers report workplace incidents.

As an employer, you must conduct an incident investigation if the worker's injury was serious or required medical treatment.  

Learn more about Conducting an employer investigation.

First aid records must be kept for at least three years. They are confidential. If the records are stored electronically, they should be stored in Canada.

Employers are responsible for storing first aid records. In a multiple-employer worksite, the employer who provided the first aid services may keep the records. When the project work is completed, the injured worker’s employer must keep these records.

First aid records should only be shared with people who have a legitimate need to review, and only in as much detail as needed. For example, a report containing a summary of the records is usually sufficient for joint committees, safety representatives, and prime contractors.

Some people who may require full access to a worker’s first aid records include:

• The injured worker or their designated representative

• The injured worker’s direct supervisor

• A WorkSafeBC prevention officer

• Workplace first aid attendants

• Anyone coordinating workplace health and safety, compensation claims, or return-to-work programs