Do First Aid Courses Have To Be Accredited?

Do you need a first aid course for your workplace? Do first aid courses have to be accredited? Whether you are an employer or an employee, it is important to understand the requirements for first aid in the workplace. In this article, we will explore the topic of first aid courses and accreditation, and answer some common questions.

Accreditation and qualifications are important factors to consider when selecting a first-aid training provider. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) sets criteria for first-aid training providers, including the qualifications expected of trainers and assessors, monitoring and quality assurance systems, teaching and standards of first-aid practice, syllabus content, and certification. While HSE no longer approves first-aid training and qualifications or first-aid training organisations since 1 October 2013, it is still the employer’s duty to ensure that any training provider they select meets the HSE criteria.

Training and competence are also important factors to consider when selecting a first-aid training provider. First aiders are trained by a competent training provider in emergency first aid at work (EFAW) and first aid at work (FAW). EFAW qualified first aiders can give emergency first aid to someone who is injured or becomes ill while at work. FAW qualified first aiders can apply first aid to a range of specific injuries and illnesses. It is important to ensure that the training provider you select provides the appropriate level of training for your workplace needs.

Key Takeaways – Do First Aid Courses Have To Be Accredited

Accreditation and qualifications are important factors to consider when selecting a first-aid training provider.
It is the employer’s duty to ensure that any training provider they select meets the HSE criteria.
First aiders are trained by a competent training provider in EFAW and FAW, and it is important to ensure that the training provider you select provides the appropriate level of training for your workplace needs.

Accreditation and Qualifications

When it comes to first aid courses, you may be wondering whether they need to be accredited. The answer is that it depends on the type of course and your specific needs. Let’s take a closer look at the role of various bodies and the qualifications available.

Role of HSE and Other Bodies

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is the national regulator for workplace health and safety in the UK. They provide guidance on selecting a competent first-aid training organisation and recommend that you carry out due diligence to ensure that the provider is suitable for your needs. Other bodies, such as trade associations and awarding organisations, may also offer accreditation or approval for first aid courses.

First Aid at Work and EFAW

If you are an employer, you have a legal duty to provide adequate and appropriate first-aid equipment, facilities and personnel in the workplace. The HSE recommends that you choose a training provider that has suitably qualified trainers and assessors, operates effective quality assurance procedures, teaches currently accepted first aid practice, and provides a suitable training syllabus. The First Aid at Work (FAW) and Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) courses are two of the most commonly recognised qualifications for workplace first aid provision.

Paediatric First Aid

If you work with children, you may need to undertake paediatric first aid training. The HSE recommends that you choose a training provider that has suitably qualified trainers and assessors, operates effective quality assurance procedures, teaches currently accepted paediatric first aid practice, and provides a suitable training syllabus. The Emergency Paediatric First Aid (EPFA) and Paediatric First Aid (PFA) courses are two of the most commonly recognised qualifications for paediatric first aid provision.

In summary, accreditation and qualifications for first aid courses can vary depending on your needs and the type of course you require. It’s important to choose a competent training provider that meets your requirements and carries out effective quality assurance systems. By selecting a suitable provider, you can ensure that you receive the appropriate first aid qualifications and certification to meet your needs.

Training and Competence

When it comes to first aid training, it is important to choose a training provider who is competent and able to deliver high-quality training. This means that they should have the necessary skills and knowledge to teach first aid effectively.

Choosing a Training Provider

When choosing a training provider, you should consider their experience, qualifications, and reputation. Look for a provider who has a good track record and is well-respected in the industry. You may also want to consider whether they are accredited by a recognised awarding organisation or have undergone voluntary approval schemes, such as those accredited by the United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS).

First Aid and Safety Training are a Qualsafe Registered Training Centre

At First Aid and Safety Training, we are a Qualsafe Registered Training Centre, which means that our courses meet the highest standards of quality and are recognised by industry bodies (Ofqual, HSE and EYFS) and nationally recognised by any employer. Our trainers are highly experienced and are able to deliver training that is tailored to your specific needs.

Certification and Requalification

Once you have completed your first aid training, you will receive a certificate that is valid for a certain period of time. It is important to keep this certificate up to date by taking refresher training and requalification courses as necessary. This will help to ensure that your skills and knowledge remain current and that you are able to provide effective first aid in an emergency.

Overall, choosing a competent training provider and keeping your first aid skills up to date is essential for ensuring that you are able to provide effective first aid when it is needed most.

First Aid in the Workplace

As an employer, you have a responsibility to ensure that your workplace is safe for your employees. One aspect of this is to provide first aid support in case of an emergency. In the UK, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is the regulatory body responsible for ensuring that employers provide adequate first aid support in the workplace.

Responsibilities of Employers – Do First Aid Courses Have To Be Accredited

Employers are required to conduct a needs assessment to determine the first aid needs of their workplace. The needs assessment should take into account the size of the workplace, the number of employees, the nature of the work being done, and any specific hazards that are present. Based on the needs assessment, the employer should appoint one or more first aiders to provide first aid support in case of an emergency.

Employers are also required to provide adequate training and support to their first aiders. This includes providing appropriate first aid training courses that are relevant to the needs of the workplace. The training should cover a range of topics, including basic life support, resuscitation, and the treatment of common workplace injuries.

Role of First Aiders

First-aiders play a crucial role in providing first aid support in the workplace. They are responsible for providing immediate assistance to anyone who is injured or becomes ill at work. This includes administering first aid treatment, calling for emergency services if necessary, and monitoring the condition of the person receiving treatment.

First aiders should be trained to a level that is appropriate for the needs of the workplace. The Resuscitation Council (UK) provides guidance on the appropriate level of training for first aiders based on the needs assessment conducted by the employer. The guidance recommends that first aiders should be trained to at least the level of the Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) qualification.

In conclusion, providing adequate first aid support in the workplace is an essential part of ensuring the safety and well-being of employees. Employers have a responsibility to conduct a needs assessment, appoint first aiders, and provide appropriate training and support to ensure that their workplace is adequately equipped to deal with emergencies.