One Year On....

It's been just over a year (1st October 2009) since the Health & Safety Executive updated guidance for employer on First Aid requirements. Even now, I'm being asked lots of questions about these requirements. Therefore I've taken the time to write up the guidance and can provide you with a copy if you wish...just ask.

In brief, all Employers are LEGALLY required to carry out a First Aid Needs Assessment in line with the new Guidance. It indicates that the HSE has moved away from the old practice of basing first aid needs solely on head count. Employers that use this table without reading and acting upton the guidance fully may be misled, or worse still, assume that their assessment should be based primarily on head count.

The HSE now recommend annual refresher training....In addition Employers may have to decide how many first aiders they require but also which type of first aider is to be provided.

There is now a choice between First Aid at Work (FAW) qualification and a new, Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) qualification. And the type of course/qualification depends on the risks in your workplace. Your accident records should help you decide what is the most appropriate training to provide.

For more information go to www.optimum-training.com