If you’re planning first aid training for your team, one of the first questions you’ll ask is: how long does it take, and how long will it stay valid? These are important considerations for being compliant and feeling confident in the workplace.
How long does the training take?
The duration depends on the type of course. Our first aid courses generally take between 1 and 3 days:
- Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW): A one-day course, ideal for low-risk environments such as offices or retail settings. Click here to learn more about Emergency First Aid at Work.
- First Aid at Work (FAW): A more comprehensive three-day course, designed for higher-risk workplaces like construction or manufacturing. Click here to learn more about First Aid at Work.
- Requalification courses: If your certificate is about to expire, you can take a two-day First Aid at Work Requalification course instead of the full three-day programme. This option is available if you renew within 28 days of expiry. Click here to learn more about First Aid at Work Requalification.
How long is a first aider certificate valid?
Under the Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981, first aid certificates are valid for three years from the date of issue. This applies to both EFAW and FAW courses. After that, you’ll need to complete a requalification course to maintain compliance and competence.
Why do first aider certificates expire?
First aid isn’t static. Guidelines change, new risks emerge, and best practices evolve. Regular renewal ensures you’re following the latest advice from bodies like the Resuscitation Council UK and the HSE. It also helps maintain confidence, because in an emergency, hesitation can cost precious seconds.
Should you refresh sooner?
The HSE strongly recommends an annual refresher course. It’s not mandatory, but it’s a smart move. These short sessions reinforce key skills like CPR, recovery position, and choking response, so you’re ready when it matters most. Think of it as a confidence boost rather than a compliance chore.
What happens if you miss renewal?
There’s no grace period. Once your certificate expires, you’re not legally recognised as a first aider. Employers must ensure valid cover at all times, so planning ahead is essential. Most providers offer requalification courses that take two days instead of three, provided you renew within 28 days of expiry.
First aid training and the law
Under the Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981, every employer in the UK has a legal duty to ensure there is adequate and appropriate first aid provision in the workplace. This means carrying out a first aid needs assessment to determine what level of cover is required, including how many trained first aiders you need and what type of training they should complete.
Both Emergency First Aid at Work and First Aid at Work certificates are valid for three years from the date of issue. After this period, the qualification expires and the individual is no longer legally recognised as a workplace first aider.
To remain compliant, a requalification course must be completed before or within 28 days of the expiry date. If the certificate lapses beyond that window, the full course must be retaken.
Why does this matter?
Accidents don’t wait for paperwork. Keeping your training current means you can act quickly and confidently, whether it’s a colleague, a customer, or a visitor who needs help. Isn’t that worth a little time every few years?
Book Your First Aid Training with Ouch
Thinking about first aid training for your team? We’d love to help.
At Ouch Learning and Development, we don’t just deliver courses, we build confidence. Our trainers bring real-world experience, practical know-how, and a friendly approach to every session. Whether you’re booking for a group or refreshing your own skills, we’ll make sure the training fits your needs and your workplace.
👉 Why not get in touch and see how we can support you? Click here to contact us.
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