HSE First Aid Certification Extension

During the Coronavirus outbreak, the HSE announced that if you hold a First Aid certificate that expires on or after 16 March 2020 and cannot access requalification training because of coronavirus, you may qualify for an extension.

They initially extended these until 30th September 2020 but based on new restrictions, the HSE have extended the First Aid and EFAW certifications as below:

 

FAW or EFAW certificates that expired after 16 March 2020 can remain valid until 31 October 2020 or 6 months from date of expiry, whichever is later. All requalification training for these certificates should be completed by 31 March 2021.

We have continued to provide first aid training and assessment but in some cases, there remains a back log with employers due to staff members being furloughed or changes in working hours.

To qualify for the extension, employers must be able to demonstrate that:

• They have made every effort to arrange requalification training as soon as possible and can explain in detail why they have not been able to do so. For example, they must show evidence that staff with expired certificates are booked on to EFAW or FAW requalification courses, if requested by an inspector
• They have adequate and appropriate equipment and facilities to give first aid to any employee who is injured or becomes ill at work
• The level of first aid cover provided remains appropriate for their particular work environment
• The level of first aid provision necessary in high risk settings is fully maintained, eg in construction, agriculture, engineering and chemicals

This guidance now applies to employers in England, Scotland and Wales.