Every year, nearly 150,000 people die in situations where first aid could have made a difference and given these people a chance to live. Basic first aid can be the difference between a life lost and a life saved. First aid really can save lives. Our courses are designed to develop skills and build confidence in first aiders. We use a range of hands-on activities that mean you will know how to put your skills into practice. Our first aid courses are renowned for providing the most interactive and practical training possible, and our customers love the results. All workplaces need to appoint someone to take charge of first aid arrangements. This applies even if you are self-employed or a sole trader.
Changes to legislation
Following a review of the Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) made a number of key changes that may affect first aid training requirements within the workplace. The changes became effective on October 1st 2009.
There were three main changes:
1. The First Aid at Work Course became a three-day course
The First Aid at Work course is now run over three days instead of four. Modern teaching methods and revision of some first aid protocol means that this training can be more streamlined but it still as comprehensive as before.
2. A new Emergency First Aid at Work course was introduced
The HSE introduced a new, one-day Emergency First Aid at Work course. This course is suitable for SMEs and low risk working environments, and will allow the candidate to gain a basic accreditation and certificate in first aid. Although it is not as comprehensive as the three-day First Aid at Work course, those trained will be recognised by the HSE as workplace first aiders.
3. Employers are advised to carry out a risk assessment
As the guidelines have been updated, the number of first aiders and category of training you need may have changed. It is recommended that employers conduct a new risk assessment so that they select the most appropriate course and number of first aiders for their business. This involves consideration of a number of factors including hazards and risks in your workplace, number of employees, accident history, lone workers and distribution of workforce.
