Blog
17 May 2024
The most common questions we get at GTAccess in regard to our first aid training courses are, “how long does first aid training last?” and “does first aid training expire?”
As you may expect, the answers to these questions can vary greatly depending on certain factors, including which course you take and what discipline that course is in.
Health and safety in the workplace is more important than ever, and maintaining up-to-date certification is essential for compliance and effective emergency response.
We’ve answered these two exceedingly important questions below.
How long does first aid training last?
This question can be interpreted in two ways, so let’s start with the literal length of the courses needed to qualify. The first thing you need to know is that course lengths will vary based on which ones you need to take and how much depth they go into on their subject matter.
By way of example, here’s a brief overview of three of the most common first aid training courses we offer at GTAccess.
- Emergency First Aid at Work: With knowledge and practical skills at its core, this one-day course is perfect for aspiring first aiders in smaller, lower risk working environments. It equips attendees with the skills needed for a range of first aid issues such as CPR, AED use, casualty care, bleeding, burns and choking.
- First Aid at Work: Learn how to manage a range of workplace injuries and illnesses with our three-day Level 3 First Aid at Work Qualifying course. This training equips you with a higher level of training for emergency first aid, including CPR, AED use and treating various conditions. Ideal for staff in sectors with greater hazards.
- Adult Mental Health First Aid: This two-day course teaches you to recognise, understand and help someone experiencing poor mental health. Gain practical, step-by-step guidance and become a certified Mental Health First Aider, receiving a digital MHFA certificate and joining a growing MHFAider community.
Let’s now look at another interpretation of the question – do the certifications awarded for first aid courses expire?
Does first aid training expire?
Yes, first aid training certifications do expire. The length of validity gained in each qualification depends on the type of training you’ve completed.
Let’s use the same three courses as examples.
- Emergency First Aid at Work: This certification is valid for three years. After this period, you must take a refresher course to ensure your skills and knowledge remain up to date.
- First Aid at Work: The First Aid at Work certification also lasts for three years. To maintain your certification, you need to complete a requalification course before the expiry date.
- Adult Mental Health First Aid: While exact duration can vary, it is recommended to refresh your training every three years to stay current with best practices and new information.
Why is it important to renew your first aid training?
There are several good reasons that first aid training should expire after a certain amount of time. Here are just three of the most important.
- Regulatory Compliance: Employers are legally required to ensure that their first aiders hold valid and up-to-date certifications. Failing to do so can result in non-compliance with health and safety regulations.
- Effectiveness in Emergencies: First aid techniques and guidelines can change over time. Regular training ensures that first aiders are knowledgeable about the latest best practises and can provide the best care possible during an emergency.
- Confidence and Competence: Regular refreshers help reinforce skills, boosting the confidence and competence of first aiders to act swiftly and effectively when needed.
To avoid expiration of your certificate, you can schedule requalification with us well before they expire. We offer refresher courses designed to update your skills and knowledge efficiently.
Stay up to date on your certifications
Hopefully, you now know the answers to “how long does first aid training last” and “does first aid training expire” and how essential your ongoing qualification is for workplace safety and compliance.
Regularly updating your skills ensures you are always prepared to provide effective first aid when needed.
For detailed information on first aid courses and requalification options, explore the comprehensive training programs offered by GTAccess.