The Health and Safety Executive are asking for views on the proposed changes to first aid training that is offered in the UK. The Consultative Document wants to see how the public feel about the proposed changes that will apply to Regulation 3(2) of the Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981.  The HSE has already asked the views of the stakeholders that took place earlier in the year.

The proposals are a result of the report that was created by Professor Loftstedt titled Reclaiming Health and Safety for All. It was an independent report on the current legislation and the Government are considering making several changes based upon the findings in the report. One is to remove the current requirement for all first aid training courses and their qualifications need to be approved by the HSE.

There is also a review of the Approved Code of Practice that is full of guidance for employers. The HSE would like to know what individuals think would be useful to be included in the Approved Code of Practice when it comes to working out the first aid provisions that is required for their business based on their circumstances, including how to select first aid providers.

Aims to Make Life Easier for Employers

It is hoped that any changes that are made will make it a lot easier for all businesses and the self-employed to understand their duties under the health and safety legislation. Therefore it is worth having your say as it will affect businesses of all sizes and in all sectors.

Currently all businesses need to assess their first aid requirements no matter how many people are working in the company. If the assessment shows a trained first aider is required it is necessary to find a first aid training course that has been given the approval of the HSE.  There are many courses available like these and they can be found from your health and safety consultants and training providers.

First Aid Training will Still be Required

If the proposals are implemented in the First Aid regulations, it will not mean that training is no longer necessary.  It will simply mean that the course will not have to have the approval of the HSE. Any proposed changes will not come into practice until at least April 2013 so until then the current regulations need to be complied with to avoid prosecution and to ensure you are working within the law.

First aid training must be adequate and employers are obligated to provide their employees with suitable training. Training is one of the health and safety services that can be found from your consultant. It is possible to take the training at your workplace or preferred venue to reduce the need to organise travel. If you would like to find out more about the first aid training or any other courses that are currently available call us on: 0800 1488 677.