We all understand the importance of having a fully qualified first aider in any workplace – but do we recognise the importance of a first aid refresher course for these important team members? Requalification courses are a legal requirement that are designed to keep first aiders’ skill sharp and include a comprehensive reassessment to ensure that they clearly remember emergency procedures. These courses maintain the high standards needed to respond in emergency situations and also reduce the level of skill fade in qualified responders, so read on to explore how this course will help you maintain your qualification.
First Aid in the Workplace
Accidents can happen anywhere – even the most well-run and prepared company can experience sudden emergency situations that threaten the safety and well-being of employees. That’s why every workplace is legally required to have at least one first aider, also referred to as a workplace first responder or responsible person, who is qualified to provide immediate care to individuals affected by unexpected emergencies.
A qualified responder is trained to respond quickly and effectively to these situations, from treating minor cuts and burns to addressing life-threatening conditions like cardiac arrests or severe bleeding. Their core role is to assess illnesses or injuries, with the goal of preserving life, preventing conditions from worsening, and promoting recovery until professional medical help arrives, and it is important to remember that they are not healthcare workers – rather, they are responsible for treating minor issues, or caring for the injured coworker whilst an ambulance is on its way. However, their presence can often make the difference between life and death, reducing the severity of injuries and potentially saving lives.
Having individuals trained in first response techniques on-site not only enhances safety but also contributes to a culture of health and safety awareness within the organisation, ultimately fostering a safer working environment for everyone. But, as is the case with all skills, knowledge, and expertise, these critical medical skills can fade over time – particularly if they are not used often. A qualified individual can regularly go years without encountering an emergency situation, and during this time the recommended emergency response techniques may have changed or adapted to current workplace trends, and because of this, requalification and refresher training has become a legal requirement.
First Aid at Work Requalification
Regular requalification and retraining courses reinforce these crucial skills, and make it easier for individuals to retain their knowledge and expertise. Without ongoing training, they may struggle to remember procedures, potentially compromising their ability to provide effective care during critical moments, and may also be unaware of the latest best practices or life saving techniques. Practices and guidelines are regularly updated, so those responsible need to stay informed about these changes to ensure they are able to provide effective care during critical moments.
In the UK, the Health & Safety Regulations of 1981 require that qualified persons undergo requalification courses periodically to retain their certification. Typically, this is required every three years, and employers are responsible for ensuring their designated individual, or individuals, attend these courses. This ensures that their competencies are up-to-date, thereby complying with occupational health and safety laws and maintaining a safe working environment, and failure to meet these requirements can result in increased liability for businesses in the event of an emergency.
So, what does the requalification process include?
⦁ Assessment of Current Certification: First, both the employer and employee must be aware of the expiration date of the existing certification, as this will help determine the timeline for requalification. If the employee doesn’t requalify before the expiration date then they are no longer considered qualified to act as a workplace first aider.
⦁ Enrolment in a Course: The employee must enrol in an accredited requalification and recertification course relevant to their initial training (e.g., general emergency aid, CPR, or specific medical aid). The key prerequisite for a requalification training session is that the employee must have previously completed a First Aid at Work Course, and it is the responsibility of the employer to decide the best training course to requalify the employee.
⦁ Attend the Course: The course typically covers a comprehensive review of emergency aid principles, including updates on techniques and protocols, and a practical assessment, which the employee should attend before their current certification expires.
⦁ Practical Training: During the retraining, there will be the opportunity for practical, hands-on sessions that reinforce skills in treating injuries, managing emergencies, and using equipment.
⦁ Examination: Participants must pass a test paper and a practical assessment to prove their competency and understanding of any updated practices.
⦁ Certification Update: Upon successful completion, the employee will receive their updated certification, valid for another set period of three years.
⦁ CPD: Whilst the employee is now qualified to continue delivering workplace emergency aid, it is recommended that they continue to engage in ongoing learning and practice to keep their skills sharp between requalification courses.
First Aid Refresher Course
Whilst requalification training courses continue to be an essential requirement for workplace first aiders, first aid at work refresher courses are a great opportunity for them to practise their skills and address any skill gaps.
These courses are designed to update and reinforce these essential skills through revisiting procedures and practising emergency response techniques. Rather than introducing any new techniques that have not been covered in the initial qualification process, or serving as a requalification course, a first aid refresher course focuses on maintaining the effectiveness and confidence of responders and correcting any skill fade.
Typically shorter than initial or recertification courses, refreshers reinforce the practitioners’ memories of practices and training, ensuring readiness for emergency situations. They combine theoretical learning with practical exercises, including using defibrillators and practising lifesaving techniques like CPR, to make sure that participants can still apply their knowledge effectively to real-world scenarios.
First Aid Refresher Course or Requalification Course?
Refresher courses are crucial for maintaining the effectiveness and confidence of first aiders, ensuring they can provide prompt and appropriate care in emergency situations. On the other hand, a requalification course, required every three years, is more comprehensive, reassessing and updating all aspects of their training and competencies.
So, if you’re looking for a certified requalification course to maintain your status as a workplace first aider, visit the First Response First Aid website today, or explore their refresher courses to maintain your skills.