What you need to know about the First Aid at Work Certificate
The First Aid at Work Certificate qualifies the holder to take on the title of First Aider in their place of work. A Health and Safety Executive-approved course is necessary if an employer wants to be sure they are in accordance with the Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981.
Once an employee has gained the certificate they will be able to perform their duties as First Aider for a period of three years, after which time it is necessary to undertake a renewal qualification. The HSE, however, strongly recommends that first aiders attend an annual refresher course to ensure that their knowledge remains up to date.
The course tends to last for three days, during which time students will attend both practical and theory sessions. The final afternoon of the course is usually given over to independent examination in order to determine whether certificates can be issued.
Sessions are designed to develop the essential skills necessary in the prevention and management of accidents or illness in the workplace, from how to record injuries to how to deal with eye injuries or a loss of consciousness.