First Aid training?

Do you still need to get first Aid training completed in coronavirus restrictions?

Yes, probably, first aid providers have resumed first aid training and assessment. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) said that first aid training required to comply with health and safety or other legislation can continue to take place under relevant coronavirus restrictions in England. All possible measures must be taken to ensure that both training activities and environment are COVID-secure.

First Aid at Work (FAW), Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW), Emergency Paediatric First Aid (EPFA) or Paediatric First Aid (PFA) 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.

What about an extension?

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.

All businesses and individuals should adhere to current regulations and follow relevant government guidance.

HSE’s current guidance on first aid certificate extensions covers all of GB and remains unaltered.


As a ProTrainings instructor and centre I offer COVID-secure. I follow specific guidelines that have been created and regularly updated, to ensure that all training is done in a safe manner in line with the government guidelines by the Awarding Organisations and FAQP.

You can continue to book courses at your workplace to ensure you comply with your health and safety requirements.

For more information on arranging training during these challenging times, contact me on admin@stephenpethick.co.uk or visit https://www.stephenpethick.co.uk