Guidance for employers on changes to HSE approved First Aid training
From 1 October 2009 the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) are making changes to the requirements for First Aid training in the workplace. Employers will need to be aware of these changes to ensure that they continue to comply with Health & Safety Regulations by providing the proper level of First Aid cover in the workplace.
A short summary of the changes is as follows:
- The First Aid at Work (FAW) course will now take place over three days (this is reduced from four)
- A three-hour Annual Update course will be available to qualified First Aiders to prevent 'skills fade' during the 3 year lifespan of their FAW or EFAW certificate
- A one-day, HSE approved Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) course will be available where the employer's risk assessment indicates that a First Aider is not required
Requirements for requalification are unchanged - FAW certificates remain valid for three years and a two-day Requalification course can be taken before the expiry date in order to renew the certificate for a further three years.
Full details of the changes and the reasons behind them can be found on the HSE website (opens in a new window) or download our Guidance for HSE First Aid Regulations
Frequently Asked Questions
Are my employees' current certificates still valid?
Yes. All certificates issued by us remain valid up to their expiry date. The Associate Membership Insurance will also continue to provide cover against any claims arising from First Aid delivered outside of the certificate-holder's workplace responsibilities.
Has the content of the FAW course changed?
The course content remain largely the same, however changes to the teaching format and simplified first aid protocols have meant that the course can be covered in less time.
Do my employees need to take the annual refresher course?
The annual refresher is not mandatory, however St Andrew’s wholeheartedly supports the HSE's strong recommendation that First Aiders undertake refresher training on a yearly basis. We believe that this is the best way to ensure that employees maintain the skills required to fulfill their responsibilities as First Aiders in the workplace.
How do I know which course my employees should take?
You can determine your requirement for First Aid training by carrying out a needs assessment which includes factors such as the nature of the work, the number of employees etc. Download Guidance for HSE First AId Regulations
