What First Aid Training do I need?

What First Aid Training Do I Need — and How Often Should Training Be Taken?

When it comes to keeping your workplace safe and compliant, first aid training is one of the most important responsibilities for any employer. This guide explains which courses you need, how often to renew certification, and whether first aid training can be taken online.

What First Aid Training Do I Need?

The type of first aid course you need depends on your workplace environment, risk level, and number of employees.

Low-Risk Workplaces:
If you work in an office, shop, or similar low-risk setting, you’ll usually need the Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) qualification.
• Duration: 1 day
• Covers: CPR, bleeding, shock, minor injuries
• Ideal for: Offices, retail, small businesses

Higher-Risk Environments:
For construction sites, factories, warehouses, or outdoor work, the First Aid at Work (FAW) course is required.
• Duration: 3 days
• Covers: Fractures, burns, head injuries, medical conditions
• Ideal for: Industrial and manual workplaces

Paediatric First Aid:
If you work with children — such as in a nursery, school, or childcare setting — you’ll need a Paediatric First Aid course.
• Duration: 2 days (or blended learning)
• Covers: Child and infant resuscitation, choking, allergic reactions, and more

Tip: The HSE recommends that employers carry out a first aid needs assessment to identify what level of training is required. At Safety360, we can help you assess your needs and recommend the right qualification.

How Often Should First Aid Training Be Renewed?

First aid qualifications expire after 3 years, but refresher training is strongly advised every 12 months to keep skills up to date.

• Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW): Every 3 years
• First Aid at Work (FAW): Every 3 years
• Paediatric First Aid: Every 3 years
• Annual Refresher: Every 12 months (½-day update)

Safety360 offers reminders and group refresher courses across Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire and other areas.

Can First Aid Training Be Taken Online?

Some theory modules can be completed online, but practical first aid skills must be demonstrated in person. This is an option from other providers but we do not offer a blended option. We believe first aid can only effectively be learned in person.

Local First Aid Training in Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire

Safety360 provides accredited first aid courses in Baldock, Stevenage, Letchworth, Hitchin, and Royston. We deliver engaging, scenario-based sessions for schools, construction firms, and offices and all other industries. On-site group sessions are available.

Why Choose Safety360?

• HSE compliant and Qualsafe accredited courses
• Experienced, qualified instructors
• Flexible group bookings across Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire
• Support with first aid needs assessments

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

·       What first aid training do I need for my workplace?

You’ll need either an Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) or First Aid at Work (FAW) course depending on your workplace risk assessment. If you work with children than a Paediatric first aid course is ideal.

·       How often should first aid training be renewed?

First aid certificates are valid for three years, but annual refresher training is strongly recommended to maintain confidence and compliance.

·       Can I take first aid training online?

We only offer in person training as we don’t believe first aid can be effectively learnt online.