What has changed
From 1 October 2009 there were 4 big changes to the current first aid regulations
1. The initial First Aid At Work qualification will be delivered over 3 days and not 4 as it currently is.
2. A new course will be launched . This will be called ‘Emergency First Aid’.
This training will supersede the Appointed Persons course. This will be a 1 day certificated course.
3. Greater emphasis is placed on the employer to carry out a full and detailed first aid needs assessment.
This involves consideration of:
· Hazards and risks in your workplace
· The number of employees
· Accident History
· Distribution of workforce
· Employees who are lone workers or need to travel as part of their role
· Annual leave – it is recommended that an additional first aider be appointed to cover absences
The HSE has proposed a guidance table identifying how many first aiders you might need,
which is available at www.hse.gov.uk
4. Introduction of an annual refresher update. The HSE have recognised that there is a need for regular
training to retain knowledge and skill in first aid and have therefore introduced a 1⁄2 day annual update
training course which they strongly recommend.
There will still be a requirement to requalify in First Aid At Work by completing a 2 day requalification course.
To requalify in Emergency First Aid a 1 day course will need to be completed.
This remains as a 3 yearly requirement.
Q: Will my existing qualification become invalid when the new courses come into effect?
A: No! Qualifications gained before October 2009 will remain valid until the expiry date stated on the certificate.
