Choosing the right First Aid Training for your workplace is essential to meet your legal duties and protect your employees.
Under the guidance of the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), every employer must provide adequate First Aid at Work provision, which includes trained personnel, equipment, and facilities. Whether you operate in a low-risk office environment or a high-risk manufacturing site, Boss Training delivers Qualsafe-accredited courses that meet national standards.
Our Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) and First Aid at Work (FAW) courses are designed to ensure your team can respond confidently and effectively in an emergency. Learn what the law requires, how long certificates last, and which course suits your business needs in our comprehensive FAQ below.
What First Aid Training do you need?
The type of First Aid training your workplace needs depends on your environment and level of risk.
- Low-risk workplaces (such as offices, retail, or schools) would typically require the Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) course. This is a 1 day course and is usually sufficient for these types of workplaces.
- Higher-risk workplaces (such as manufacturing, construction, or warehousing) would typically require the First Aid at Work (FAW) course. This is a 3 day training course, and is a lot more comprehensive and suitable for these types of workplaces.
However, your choice should always be based on a First Aid Needs Assessment, as recommended by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). This assessment identifies how many first aiders you need and which course is most suitable.
What does the Law say?
Under the Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981, every employer must provide:
- Adequate and appropriate first-aid equipment.
- Suitable facilities.
- And trained personnel so that anyone injured or taken ill at work can receive immediate attention.
Your First Aid provision must be appropriate for your business size, nature of work, and level of risk.
A documented First Aid Needs Assessment helps you meet these legal obligations and maintain compliance.
What’s the difference between EFAW and FAW?
- The Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) 1 day course focuses on managing life-threatening emergencies, including CPR, choking, bleeding, shock, and minor injuries.
- The First Aid at Work (FAW) 3 day course covers everything in EFAW, plus a wider range of conditions such as fractures, burns, eye injuries, heart attacks, asthma, diabetes and more in-depth practical sessions.
The HSE recommends that all first aiders complete an annual refresher session to maintain confidence and practical skills (this is a recommendation, not a legal requirement).
Who can act as a First Aider in the workplace?
Anyone aged 16 or over who has completed a recognised First Aid qualification (EFAW or FAW) can act as a workplace first aider, provided their employer is confident in their competence and ability to perform the role.
How long do First Aid certificates last?
Both EFAW and FAW certificates are valid for three years.
To remain qualified, you must complete a requalification course before your current certificate expires.
Typically, a 2 day requalification course is required to renew a FAW qualification and a 1 day course for the EFAW qualification.
Boss Training delivers Qualsafe-Accredited First Aid training, ensuring all courses meet national standards and are recognised by employers across the UK.
Employers are responsible for ensuring that First Aiders are trained by a competent and accredited provider.
What happens if my certificate runs out?
If your certificate expires, you must retake the full course (EFAW or FAW).
There is no grace period after expiry, so it’s important to renew before your certificate lapses to ensure continuous First Aid cover.
Can this training be done on-site?
Absolutely!
Boss Training can deliver Qualsafe-Accredited First Aid courses directly at your site for up to 12 delegates per course.
On-site training allows you to:
- Minimise downtime by training your team together
- Ensure full compliance with your First Aid Needs Assessment
How much does First Aid Training cost?
Our open classroom course prices are:
- Emergency First Aid at Work (1 Day) – £129 + VAT per person.
- First Aid at Work (3 Days) – £299 + VAT per person.
Group and on-site course prices may vary depending on location and number of delegates. Contact our friendly team for a tailored quote today.