It’s time to take a First Aid and/or CPR/AED  class and you start searching for the best one. As you search, you come across a certification that you have never heard of before: American Safety and Health Institute (ASHI). The certification is valid for 2 years and they offer CPR in the same levels as the American Red Cross (ARC). But is it legitimate?

Although many people may not have heard of the American Safety and Health Institute, it is gaining more and more popularity throughout the country and even the world. It is an internationally recognized and also endorsed by the United States Coast Guard. ASHI CPR and first aid courses are based off the American Red Cross guidelines just as all other CPR training courses.

So if you have the choice between the American Red Cross (ARC) and the American Safety & Health Institute (ASHI) class, which one should you choose? The answer lies in what type of training you need. Although the (ASHI) classes are gaining popularity, the healthcare CPR market is dominated by the American Red Cross & the American Heart Association. So, until hospitals realize that ASHI CPR classes are equivalent to those of the (ARC) or (AHA), it is best to stick with the (ARC) or (AHA) BLS for Healthcare Provider Course.

For all other CPR courses, the American Safety and Health Institute will satisfy the requirements. Better yet, the (ASHI) classes are usually less expensive than those of the (ARC) and faster to complete.

(ARC) vs. (ASHI)
Who is the Winner? It’s a split decision:

If you are in healthcare, go with American Red Cross (ARC) CPR/BLS.  However, if you are not in healthcare, save time and money by choosing American Safety and Health Institute (ASHI) First Aid and/or CPR/AED classes.  Industries that accept (ASHI) & (ARC) certifications are as follows:

-Maritime (Merchant Marines)
-Public Schools
-Childcare Facilities
-Community Associations
-Electricians & Construction Agencies
-Educators, Personal Trainers and Coaches
-Foster Families & Adoptive Parents
-Personal Trainers

Please Check with your facility to verify the type of certification they accept and/or require.