Changes to First Aid Training…
After some deliberation the HSE have finally decided to implement changes to First Aid Training Guidance effective from October 2009.There are currently two recommended first aid courses: First Aid at Work – an initial 3 (24 hours) day training course with a 1.5 day (12 hours) refresher course required every 3 years and for lower risk environments, there is also a 1 day (7 hour) Appointed Persons course. The Appointed Persons course is current very useful but does not allow recognition of the Appointed Person as a First Aider under the First Aid at Work Regulations.
From October 1 2009, the HSE recommendations change as follows: The First Aid at Work course has now been revised to an 18 hour training course with a 12 hour refresher course still required every 3 years. The HSE have also introduced a new Emergency First Aid at Work course – this is designed for low risk environments and will take a minimum of six hours. The Emergency First Aid course is similar to the previous Appointed Persons course but now allows the Appointed Person to be recognised as a first aider under the First Aid at Work Regulations 1981.
For more information go to the HSE web site: HSE First Aid Guidance