Virginia Law

A. Applicants shall complete a 24-hour advanced first aid class, at minimum, taught by a certified advanced first aid instructor or possess appropriately related work experience approved by the chief and pass the advanced first aid examination.

B. Approved advanced first aid classes shall cover the following subjects:

1. Introduction to first aid;

2. Respiratory emergencies and cardiopulmonary resuscitation; i.e., heart saver or other four-hour equivalent;

3. Removal of foreign bodies from the throat (the Heimlich Maneuver);

4. Wounds;

5. Shock;

6. Specific injuries including head and chest;

7. Contamination, infection, and prevention;

8. Burns;

9. Cold exposure and frost bite;

10. Bone and joint injuries;

11. Dressings and bandages;

12. Sudden illness;

13. Emergency underground rescue and transfer;

14. Unusual rescue situations related to mining;

15. Poisoning, toxic and hazardous materials;

16. Transportation of victims; and

17. Heat exposure.

C. An advanced first aid certification in good standing with the BCME shall remain valid until the last day of the month following the anniversary date of the initial or continuing education training. Certified persons shall complete four hours continuing education annually, which is taught by a certified advanced first aid instructor, to maintain their advanced first aid card. This continuing education requirement shall include documented annual training in CPR and recertification every two years.

D. The holder of the certificate shall submit documentation to the division indicating the required continuing education has been completed.

E. Applicants holding a valid EMT card or EMT first responder card, shall be deemed eligible to receive advanced first aid certification without having to complete the initial advanced first aid class or without passing the advanced first aid examination. All applicants shall complete eight hours of continuing education. The advanced first aid certification shall start on the day the applicant's EMT certification or EMT first responder certification expires.

F. Failure to complete required continuing education shall result in suspension of the certification pending completion of the continuing education. If the continuing education requirement is not met within one year from the suspension date, then the certification shall be revoked by the BCME.

G. The division shall send notice of any suspension to the last known address of the certified person reported to the division in accordance with 4VAC25-20-20 I. Upon request, the department will provide the mine operator and other interested parties with a list of individuals whose certification is in suspension or has been revoked.