News

Following on from Part 1 and Part 2 of our health and safety focused series of articles for employers in which we shared resources on the subject of workplace and commuter social distancing and home working health and safety, we are now exploring the subject of first aid cover, again detailing what the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is advising and providing links to relevant official resources.

First aid cover during the coronavirus situation

If your premises are still open, you may find that your first aid cover is reduced due to some members of staff being unable to work due to the need to self-isolate, or because some of them are now working from home.

In situations where first aid cover is reduced, and perhaps you are finding it difficult to get first aid training, the HSE says there are things that can be done to ensure continuity of regulatory compliance.

Reduced need for first aid cover

Firstly, you may be able to operate with reduced first aid cover if fewer people are coming into your workplace, so it is worth checking this.

Secondly, it might be worth considering whether any higher risk activities can be put on hold temporarily.

Shared first aid cover

Another idea suggested by the HSE is to share first aiders with another business. Providing they have the experience, knowledge and availability to cover your first aid needs, this is perfectly acceptable.

The HSE says that shared first aiders must be aware of the type of injuries or illnesses that were identified in your first aid needs assessment, and have adequate training and skills to deal with them; be sufficiently aware of your specific working environment and the first aid facilities you provide, and be able to get to your workplace in good time should they be needed. It is also important to make certain that the shared first aider, in attending your premises, won't leave their own workplace at risk.

Extensions to first aid certificates

Anyone who holds a First Aid at Work (FAW) or Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) aid certificate that expires on or after 16 March 2020 and who cannot access requalification training due to the coronavirus situation may qualify for a three-month extension. This also applies to Offshore Medic (OM) and Offshore First Aid (OFA) certificates.

To qualify it is necessary to explain the reason why requalification has not been possible, and show the steps taken to try to access the training.

Interruptions to first aid training

If the coronavirus situation has prevented staff members from completing a first aid qualification within the regular timeframe, then the HSE says that training can recommence at a later date, providing a full recap of the training delivered before the interruption is done before moving onto the yet to be studied modules. It will also be necessary for the awarding body to be satisfied that the trainee can demonstrate a full understanding of all the course content and show that they have the knowledge and competencies required at the end of the training.

HSE advice on first aid cover and qualifications during the coronavirus outbreak can be found here.

Keeping up to date

Keeping up to date with changing advice during these uncertain times is vital. Always take care to consult official sources, such as those linked to within this article.

The HSE's dedicated coronavirus information hub is a good central resource providing useful information relevant to a range of industry sectors.