What First Aid Training Does Your Workplace Need?

Under the Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981, employers must provide adequate and appropriate first aid provision based on the specific needs of their workplace.

Start With a First Aid Needs Assessment

Before booking training, employers should carry out a first aid needs assessment to determine the appropriate level of provision.

Consider factors such as:

• The number of employees and workplace hazards.
• The nature of the work and potential injuries.
• Shift patterns and working hours.
• Multiple sites, remote locations and lone workers.
• Previous accidents and incidents.
• Holiday and sickness cover.

There is no fixed legal ratio of first aiders to employees. The number required depends on the findings of your assessment.

Understanding First Aid Training Levels

Two of the most common workplace qualifications are:

• Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW): Usually a one-day course, EFAW provides training to deal with emergency situations, including life-threatening injuries and illnesses. It may be suitable for lower-risk workplaces where the needs assessment identifies this level of provision as adequate.
• First Aid at Work (FAW): Usually a three-day course, FAW covers emergency first aid as well as a wider range of injuries and illnesses. It may be more appropriate for higher-risk environments, such as construction and manufacturing.
• Appointed Persons: Where a trained first aider is not considered necessary following the assessment, an appointed person can take charge of first aid arrangements, including maintaining equipment and contacting emergency services. They are not a substitute for a trained first aider where one is required.

Keeping Qualifications Up to Date

EFAW and FAW certificates are valid for three years. HSE strongly recommends annual refresher training to help first aiders maintain their knowledge and practical skills.

Employers should monitor expiry dates and ensure sufficient cover remains available during holidays, sickness and other absences.

Review Your First Aid Arrangements

First aid requirements can change as your workforce, activities and working environments develop. Review your assessment when circumstances change and when existing arrangements may no longer be adequate.

How Can AM Training Specialists Ltd Help?

AM Training Specialists Ltd and our Sister Company AM Safety Specialists Ltd can provide practical health and safety support to help businesses review their workplace arrangements, identify potential gaps and manage their responsibilities.

Are your first aid arrangements suitable for your workplace?

See a list of our full range of upcoming Courses including First Aid by clicking here.