First Aid Training during the Covid-19 Pandemic

First Aid Training in a safe and Covid-secure way

We have been providing our first aid training courses under government guidelines and strict risk assessments. The HSE also states that first aid training remains essential, with our trainers and delegates able to train face-to-face for work purposes.

First Aid training saves lives in the workplace and eases the pressure on the NHS.

You can see all our measures and updates here

What does the law say?

The policy position of the HSE is that first aid training required to comply with health and safety or other legislation can continue to take place under relevant coronavirus restrictions in England. (15th January 2021) First aid remains a legal responsibility for businesses and organisations.

The HSE (Health & Safety Executive) explain that businesses should be carrying out a first aid needs assessment to determine what first aider provision and equipment is required. Most businesses will need to revisit the first aid needs assessment they had in place prior to the pandemic as it is likely the workplace, working processes and even the workforce within it have altered, e.g. some of the workforce may now be working from home, shielding or isolating.

“You must keep enough First Aid cover for your business to operate in a safe and legal manner”.

Click here for your FREE First Aid Needs Assessment!

First aid certificate extensions

During the first lockdown, first aid certificate extensions were announced for FAW or EFAW certificates in England, Scotland and Wales that expired after 16 March 2020 remaining valid until 31 October 2020 or 6 months from date of expiry, whichever was later.

All requalification training for these certificates should be completed by 31st March 2021.

Update on rescue breaths assessment

Part of CPR training involves the practice and assessment of rescue breaths.

As part of all our risk assessments, guidance and keeping sole use of 1 manikin to practice for each delegate and disposable lungs/mouthparts (you can see all our updated measures here) we feel happy and safe in keeping the rescue breaths part of our first aid training courses. 

Why do first aid courses continue to run face-to-face?

As workplaces continue to operate, essential health and safety training to support them must continue to be available. Whilst many courses can be delivered online or virtually, first aid is unique as the skills are practical in nature and on occasion do require close contact.

Currently, first aiders are not qualified if they complete training that is delivered exclusively online. The Health and Safety Executive outlines criteria for blended learning and are clear that practical aspects of the course and assessment are essential for ensuring that first aiders can respond confidently and effectively in an emergency situation.

Taken from hse.gov.uk

Can furloughed employees engage in training?

Yes. Under the Government guidance for furlough, it does state that “furloughed employees can engage in training, as long as, in undertaking the training the employee does not provide services to, or generate revenue for their organisation.” So as long as the training isn’t directly making the business money, it is allowed.

Click here for more information on furlough training

Furlough can offer a great opportunity for both employers and employees. Take a look at some of our Online Mental Health First Aid training courses!

Providing training for employees whilst they are on furlough means the pressure of their everyday workload are not there. They can enhance their skills and professional development without normal distractions.

Training can help employees feel connected to their team and feel motivated to keep moving forward despite their current situations.

Training can also be a way for employers to show their employees that their development is a top priority, in turn creating a sense of value and worth within their roles.

How are we making training Covid-19 safe?

Being an essential training provider, we have been running our courses with rigorous safety measures in place since summer 2020.  We feel confident the measures we have in place allow us to continue providing the absolute best training experience for our delegates, whilst also meeting Covid-19 guidance.

We are constantly reviewing, adapting and assessing all our Covid-19 safety measures with guidance from the HSE, RCUK, Public Health England and the latest scientific evidence. We have risk assessments for each venue and for when our trainers come to you to deliver training.

We have had overwhelmingly good feedback from our delegates who have attended training during these difficult times, we appreciate it can feel worrying as an attendee but we want to reassure you that we always work on the side of caution taking the most robust safety route when guidelines aren’t clear. We will continue to adapt and adjust our courses as advice and feedback becomes available.  

You can see all of these measures, updates and risk assessments here.

What training courses are available at SkillBase First Aid?

Physical First Aid

We provide a wide range of HSE compliant First Aid courses including, First Aid at Work, Emergency First Aid, Essential Life Support and Requalifications. We also provide First Aid Instructor training for organisations and individuals wanting to learn how to teach life-saving skills.

Mental Health Training

We provide a wide range of mental health training with our bespoke courses and the full suite of Adult Mental Health First Aid (MHFA England) training. These can be delivered both face-to-face and online.

More on Mental Health Training for employees during Covid-19

With 1 in 5 employees experiencing moderate to high levels of stress before the pandemic, it is more crucial now than ever to look at how you can support, educate and empower your employees with training such as Mental Health First Aid.

Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training is designed to reduce stigma and teach practical skills that can be used every day in the workplace. It teaches people how to spot the signs and symptoms of mental ill-health and provide help on a first aid basis.

Here at SkillBase First Aid we provide Mental Health First Aid courses available at our training centre in Leicester, as an online course or we can come to you wherever you are in England!

Find out more!

We also have a dedicated Mental Health Training Team to consult with you and your organisation on strategy, implementing MHFA and all wellbeing related policies.

Book your FREE consultation here

We believe in equality between mental and physical health, that’s why we provide training in both.