We are able to run first aid courses as we can manage the risks of infection and first aid training is an essential qualification needed in the workplace. We have directly  contacted the Scottish Government and had this reply from the their Skills Development Unit: ‘The coronavirus regulations provide an exception for gatherings for the purpose of education or training, so it is therefore permissible to undertake this in a variety of different venues.’

No course can be 100% risk free, but the UK government and First Aid representative bodies has provided Highland First aid with advice on minimising the risk of spreading COVID19 when delivering first aid qualifications.   The guidance provides  Highland First Aid with guidance on using PPE, organising courses and preventing ‘high risk’ individuals from entering the training room to minimise risks to all involved on a course.  Based on current government guidance and existing best practice within the industry Highland First Aid already have robust Health & Safety policies and risk assessments in place, which are quality assured by ITC.

Whilst most of the course will take place with you at least 2 metres away from any other people, as per the current government guideline and in line with national first aid sector guidance, you will be required to demonstrate first aid techniques on fellow attendee during the course in order to complete the necessary assessment.  Where this is unavoidable Highland First Aid has been provided with guidance on reducing risk of spreading COVID19.

100% online first aid qualifications are not permitted by the HSE.  Current HSE guidance allows for a combination of 1/3 online/blended learning: 2/3 face-to-face delivery for certain qualifications e.g. First Aid at Work. The majority of quality first aid providers  are continuing to deliver their training 100% face-to-face with comprehensive measures in place to reduce the risk of spreading COVID19. All assessment must be completed face-to-face. We have looked at online training as it is convenient and cheaper, but at this time we do not feel it offers quality alternative to safely distanced active training.  

Currently, you need to renew your first aid at the next available course, due to different levels of lockdown and furloughs. This is why we will do a course 1 to 1 with you if we can use your venue. We have used large offices, workshops, big yurts and board rooms!

The same rules are currently being applied as above, however anyone using their OFA to validate their National Governing Body (NGB) coaching and/or instructor awards are urged to contact their NGB directly to confirm their approach, as well as contacting your insurance provider to confirm that cover will still be in place during the period of ‘extension.’