Posted - 6 July 2020 - Implementing COVID-19 Safe First Aid Training

It goes without saying the coronavirus pandemic has changed the way we work and live. We understand our customers may have some questions with reference to training courses, specifically statutory first aid training during the current climate.

Even prior to the pandemic health and safety has always been the main concern for everyone at First Aid Safety. As a result, we’d like to further assure our customers about the comprehensive measures in place to minimise and safeguard against COVID-19 during the delivery of our training courses.

What are your social distancing protocols?

Instructors and candidates will remain socially distanced during practical sessions where practicably possible. Where there is a need to assess performance (i.e. assessment) and social distancing isn’t practicable, the trainer will wear a face shield. Candidates will be instructed to follow the same guidelines.

Changes to the assessment process in line with our Awarding Body’s guidance are in place. This is reflected in the joining instructions issued to the candidates on course booking.

How will I be able to perform CPR minimising risk?

Where possible we will operate a 2:1 candidate to manikin ratio for CPR practice and maintain a rigorous manikin cleaning protocol. Depending on the size of the training room, the candidate numbers may be reduced. A personal resuscitation face shield provided should also be used. Resuscitation manikin lungs and faces will be changed after each training session.

In a real-life first aid scenario, the Resus Council has advised to attempt compression-only CPR and early defibrillation until the ambulance arrives.

Watch the short video clip HERE

Will I be able to practice dressings?

The candidate can demonstrate applying a bandage to themselves – on a leg wound if necessary, followed by placing themselves in the appropriate position to treat shock. Alternatively, a head wound on a manikin can be simulated. Further details on all practical elements are issued in the joining instructions on course booking.

How can I be sure any training equipment I use is safe?

Each candidate will be issued their own personal hygiene equipment to use during the course. This includes:

  • Hand sanitiser
  • New triangular bandage
  • New resuscitation aid face shield
  • New large wound dressing
  • Sanitation wipes
  • Disposable nitrile gloves

Candidates are instructed to wash or sanitise their hands before and after any practical scenario.

Do we provide in-house training at our premises?

We have started operating in-house first aid and other training courses at your premises. Confirmation is requested for implemented social distancing and hygiene control measures prior to booking a course.

Are public/open first aid training courses available?

Our training center is now operating with the accredited Emergency First Aid at Work course scheduled from September.

Check out the scheduled course dates HERE

Candidates are provided with the following PPE in order to visit the centre safely:

  • Disposable gloves
  • Disposable mask
  • Hand sanitiser

Hand sanitisers and disinfectant wipes are provided across the centre to use when necessary.

COVID-19 policy for anyone visiting our training centre is available HERE

My first aid certificate is due for renewal

In line with the guidance issued by the HSE and the DfE (Department for Education) all First Aid at Work, Emergency First Aid at Work, and Peadiatric First Aid certificates have been granted a dispensation. The validation date for certificates that expired on or after 13 March is now extended to the 30th September.

Please contact us to discuss and arrange a requalification course at the earliest opportunity possible.

Read HSE statement HERE

Read DfE Statement HERE