Differences Between First Aid/CPR/AED Training Programs
- by Sduehring
Table of Contents

Certifying Organization : American Heart Association (AHA)
Background: Researches and sets guidelines for CPR.
Class Length: AHA CPR classes are typically shorter.
Price: Slightly less expensive than ARC.
Certification Acceptance: Most universally accepted.
Certification Distribution: Will be emailed to participants.

Certifying Organization : American Red Cross (ARC)
Background: Use guidelines set forth by AHA.
Class Length: Used to be longer than AHA. With the updated 2020 guidelines, they are about the same.
Price: Most expensive.
Certification Acceptance: More selective. Check with your program requirements.
Certification Distribution: Can be emailed to participants. Client POC will be provided a master PDF

Certifying Organization : Health & Safety Institute (HSI)
Background: Equivalent to training programs developed and administered by the AHA and the ARC.
Class Length: Full classroom or online learning w/in-person skills session.
Price: Most cost-efficient.
Certification Acceptance: Widely accepted. Check with your program requirement to confirm.
Certification Distribution: Can be emailed to participants. Client POC will be provided a master PDF.

Successful completion of all courses results in a two-year certification card.



