Ensuring the safety of your employees is a legal and moral obligation. A crucial part of this is providing adequate first aid provision. But with so many different first aid courses available, how do you know which one is right for your workplace? This blog, brought to you by Oodles Training ( www.oodlestraining.com ), specialists in workplace first aid training, breaks down the key regulations and considerations to help you determine the appropriate first aid training for your needs. What Are The Legal Requirements For First Aid In My Business? Several pieces of legislation govern first aid in the workplace, forming the bedrock of your responsibilities: The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 : This overarching act sets out the general duties employers have to protect the health, safety, and welfare of their employees (as well as any other visitors on site). It's the foundation upon which more specific regulations are built. The Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981:  These regulations specifically address first aid requirements in the workplace. They mandate that employers must provide adequate and appropriate first-aid equipment, facilities, and personnel. The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999:  These regulations require employers to carry out a risk assessment to identify potential hazards and implement appropriate control measures, including first aid provision. Workplace Risk Assessment: The Key to Determining Your First Aid Needs The cornerstone of effective first aid provision is a thorough risk assessment. This assessment, a critical part of first aid training regulations, is a legal requirement and will dictate: The type of training necessary The number of trained personnel The quantity and contents of your first aid kits Oodles Training can assist you in conducting a comprehensive risk assessment. Your risk assessment should consider: Workplace Hazards : Identify potential hazards specific to your industry and work environment. Are there risks of cuts, burns, chemical exposure, or other injuries? Number of Employees : The size of your workforce is a significant factor. Larger workforces generally require more first aiders and first aid kits. Nature of Work : Higher-risk activities, such as construction or manufacturing, will necessitate more extensive first aid provisions than lower-risk environments like offices. Work Patterns:  Consider shift patterns, lone working, and out-of-hours activities. Ensure that first aid cover is available at all times. Location of Workplace:  Is your workplace easily accessible to emergency services? Remote locations might require more comprehensive first aid arrangements. How Do I Translate A Risk Assessment into First Aid Training? Once you've completed your risk assessment, you can determine the appropriate first aid training for your employees. Here are some common types of first aid courses: Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) : This one-day course covers basic life-saving skills, such as CPR, dealing with bleeding, and managing minor injuries. It's suitable for lower-risk environments. First Aid at Work (FAW):  This three-day course provides more comprehensive training, covering a wider range of injuries and illnesses. It's typically required for higher-risk environments, or for people leading first aid provision in your workplace Paediatric First Aid:  If you work with children, you'll likely need paediatric first aid training, which covers common childhood illnesses and injuries. Most workplaces choose to have a variety of staff trained to differing levels.  For example you may choose to have a team of key personnel trained to the full First Aid at Work (FAW) standard with other staff completing the one day Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) course.  Both of these courses are HSE compliant. How Do I Know How Many First Aid Trained Staff and First Aid Kits I Need? The risk assessment will also determine the number of first aiders you need and the quantity and contents of your first aid kits. There are no set numbers, but the regulations require "adequate and appropriate" provision. Factors to consider include: Spread of Workforce: If your workforce is spread across multiple sites, you'll need to ensure adequate first aid provision at each location. Shift Patterns: Ensure that trained first aiders are present during all working hours. First Aid Kit Contents: The contents of your kits should be tailored to the specific hazards identified in your risk assessment. Oodles Training can advise on the appropriate contents for your industry if this is helpful What Special Considerations Are Needed for Modern Workplaces (Remote Working First Aid, Multi-Site First Aid)? Modern work practices present unique challenges for first aid provision: Remote Working : If employees work from home or other remote locations, you still have a responsibility for their health and safety. Consider providing them with personal first aid kits and access to first aid advice. Oodles training can help you understand your obligations. Multi-Site Working:  For businesses with multiple sites, ensure that each site has adequate first aid provision, taking into account the specific risks at each location. Lone Workers:  Lone workers are particularly vulnerable, and you'll need to consider how they can access first aid in an emergency. It is worth noting that, people may end up lone working, even when they work in a busy office. An example of this might be a cleaner coming in after ‘office hours’, flexi-hours staff or staff who come in early or stay late to catch up. How Can We Help (First Aid Training and Supplies)? Oodles Training ( www.oodlestraining.com ) offers a comprehensive range of first aid training courses, consultancy  and supplies to meet the needs of businesses of all sizes. We can help you conduct risk assessments, choose the right training for your employees, and ensure that your first aid kits are fully stocked and up to date. Contact us today to discuss your specific requirements and ensure your workplace is safe and compliant.

Mental health is becoming an increasingly important issue in the workplace. In fact, a recent study by the Mental Health Foundation found that one in six employees experience mental health problems. This can have a significant impact on productivity, absenteeism, and staff turnover. As an employer, you have a legal duty to protect the health, safety, and welfare of your employees. This includes their mental health. There is no specific legal requirement for employers to provide mental health training, but there are a number of reasons why we think it is a good idea. Mental health training can help your staff to: Understand what mental health is and how it can affect people Recognise the signs and symptoms of common mental health problems, such as anxiety and depression Develop coping strategies for dealing with stress and other mental health challenges Know where to go for help if they are experiencing mental health problems Create a more supportive and understanding workplace culture Mental Health Training can help your organisation: Foster a culture of wellbeing: Demonstrating a commitment to employee mental health creates a more positive and supportive work environment where individuals feel valued and cared for. Contribute to lower staff absence: By equipping staff with coping mechanisms and promoting early intervention, mental health training can help reduce stress-related absences and presenteeism. Lead to increased creativity and happiness: Employees who feel mentally well are more likely to be engaged, innovative, and experience greater job satisfaction, boosting overall morale and creativity. Lower staff turnover: A workplace that prioritises mental health and provides support is more likely to retain its talent, reducing the costs and disruption associated with recruitment and training new staff. Improve productivity and performance: When employees are mentally healthy, they are better able to focus, concentrate, and perform their duties effectively, leading to increased overall productivity. Enhance your organisation's reputation: Demonstrating a commitment to employee wellbeing can enhance your company's image, making you a more attractive employer to potential candidates. Support legal compliance and reduce risk: While not a direct legal requirement for training, proactive mental health support can contribute to fulfilling your broader duty of care and mitigating potential legal risks associated with workplace stress and discrimination. Mental health training can cover a range of topics, including: What mental health is and how it can affect people The different types of mental health problems The signs and symptoms of common mental health problems How to support someone who is experiencing mental health problems Where to go for help How can Oodles Training help? Oodles Training offers a range of mental health training courses for employers. Our courses are designed to help you to: Understand your legal obligations regarding mental health Develop a mental health policy for your organisation Train your managers and staff on mental health awareness Create a more supportive and understanding workplace culture If you are interested in finding out more about our mental health training courses, please contact us today at hello@OodlesTraining.com

In today's fast-paced world, convenience and flexibility are key, especially when it comes to professional development. At Oodles Training we understand the need for accessible learning solutions. So, if you're looking to become a certified Fire Marshal or Fire Warden, you might be wondering: can these crucial training courses be completed online? The short answer is yes, absolutely! Oodles Training offers both Fire Marshal and Fire Warden courses in convenient online formats alongside face-to-face, providing options and flexibility to help you gain the essential knowledge and skills required for these vital roles. Why Choose Online Fire Marshal or Fire Warden Training with Oodles Training? Flexibility and Convenience:  Learn at your own pace, fitting the training around your work schedule and personal commitments, eliminating the need for travel and time away from your work Cost-Effective:  Online training often proves to be a more budget-friendly option compared to traditional in-person courses. This can allow  businesses and schools to train a larger number of staff within their budget. Self-Paced Learning:  Online modules allow learners to revisit information and take their time to fully understand the concepts, catering to different learning styles. Important Considerations for Online Fire Safety Training: While online Fire Marshal and Fire Warden training with Oodles Training offers numerous advantages, it's important to acknowledge potential downsides Practical Elements:  While our online courses provide comprehensive theoretical knowledge, some practical elements, such as hands-on fire extinguisher training, might benefit from supplementary in-person sessions. Oodles Training can advise on blended learning solutions if required. Workplace-Specific Procedures:  Online training provides a strong foundation, but it's crucial to ensure that individuals also receive specific guidance on your organisation's unique fire safety procedures and evacuation plans. Interaction with instructors and fellow learners is limited, which can reduce opportunities for immediate clarification or the sharing of perspectives and real-world experiences that often enrich in-person training.  If you feel that any of these mean that online Fire Marshal or Fire Warden training isn’t for you then worry not!  Oodles Training can also offer these courses as face to face courses or indeed as a blended course.  Get in touch to find out more! Oodles Training: Supporting Your Fire Safety At Oodles Training ( www.oodlestraining.com ), we are committed to providing high-quality, accessible fire safety training solutions. Our online and in person Fire Marshal and Fire Warden courses are designed to empower individuals with the knowledge and confidence to effectively carry out their responsibilities, contributing to a safer working environment for everyone. Ready to take the next step in fire safety? Visit   www.oodlestraining.com  today to explore our online Fire Marshal and Fire Warden courses and ensure your workplace is prepared and compliant.

First aid courses can be invaluable, equipping you with the skills to potentially save a life. But when it comes to the cost of these courses, there can be some confusion. Are they free, or do you have to pay? The answer, unfortunately, isn't a simple yes or no: Online Resources : There are options to find out information about first aid with free online resources, whilst this isn’t a replacement for practical training it can provide basic knowledge, although be careful where you get your information from.  Online Courses:  It is possible to do some courses purely online, which provides a cheap option to do a course. Check out our WORKPLACE  and EDUCATION  online courses. Subsidised Courses:  Many workplaces, community groups or volunteer organisations run subsidised (or free) courses, so worth keeping an eye out for them Factors that can influence the cost: Course Type and Duration : Basic first aid courses tend to be shorter and, therefore, cheaper than more comprehensive ones. Courses can range from a few hours (for example our Basic First Aid course )  to a few days such as Emergency First Aid At Work (for WORKPLACE  or EDUCATION ), so it is worth understanding what you are looking for Minimum Number s: Different organisations are happy to run courses with different minimum numbers. At Oodles Training, we aim to keep your costs down by running courses at your venue for a little as 3 people at a time (or, of course, you can individually join one of our public courses). When you go above 3 people you only pay for the places you book so you won’t be paying for places you don’t need! Different Learning options . These days there are flexible learning options for learning first aid. Whilst some certificated courses are more limited in how they are run, others can be run online, live-virtual, blended or face to face. Even if you have to pay for a course, we believe (although we accept we are biased) the benefits of learning first aid are priceless. You'll gain the confidence and skills to respond effectively in an emergency, potentially saving a life and because your qualification is valid for 3 years the monthly cost of having this knowledge becomes very manageable. Need Help? If you are still unsure what is the right course for you, or want some advice please get in touch: hello@OodlesTraining.com

When running courses in schools, questions often come up around first aid kits and if they should be locked away, or easily accessible. The question of whether first aid kits should be locked in schools is a complex one, sparking debate amongst staff, parents, and even students. There are valid arguments on both sides, and it's crucial to weigh the potential benefits and drawbacks before making a decision. Arguments for Locking First Aid Kits: Preventing Misuse and Theft : In a busy school environment, first aid supplies can easily be pilfered or misused. Locking kits can ensure that essential items are available when needed for genuine emergencies. Controlling Access:  Limiting access to trained staff allows for proper assessment of injuries and appropriate use of supplies. This can prevent well-meaning but untrained individuals from potentially causing further harm by using incorrect techniques or inappropriate items. Maintaining Stock Levels:  Controlling access can help maintain stock levels and prevent wastage. When access is unrestricted, items can be used unnecessarily or go missing, leaving the kit depleted when a real emergency arises. Reducing Liability:  In some cases, schools might feel that locking kits reduces their liability if untrained individuals use supplies incorrectly, or aren’t aware of their responsibilities to use reporting procedures after an incident. Arguments Against Locking First Aid Kits: Delayed Access in Emergencies:  The most significant concern is the potential for delayed access in a genuine emergency. Seconds can be critical when dealing with injuries, and a locked kit could hinder immediate treatment. Creating a False Sense of Security:  Locking kits might give a false sense of security, leading people to believe that first aid is readily available when it might not be if the designated key holder is unavailable. Discouraging Proactive First Aid:  If kits are locked, individuals might be less inclined to offer immediate assistance for minor injuries, fearing they'll be unable to access supplies. This could discourage a culture of proactive first aid within the school. Accessibility for Trained Staff:  Even with designated key holders, there's the possibility that they might not be readily available in every situation. This can be particularly problematic in larger schools or during after-school activities. Finding a Balanced Approach: Schools should consider a nuanced approach: Strategic Placement:  First aid kits should be strategically placed in easily accessible locations throughout the school, such as near sports facilities, playgrounds, and high-traffic areas. By placing kits in areas where there is supervision (such as a reception), someone can quietly monitor anyone using the kit without there being a barrier to its use Designated Key Holders:  If kits are locked, a sufficient number of staff members should be designated key holders and their locations clearly communicated. This could include teachers, administrative staff, and designated first aiders. Clear Protocols:  Schools should have clear protocols for accessing first aid kits in both routine and emergency situations. These protocols should be communicated to all staff and, where appropriate, to students. Regular Inspections:  Regular inspections of all first aid kits are essential to ensure they are fully stocked and that items are not expired. Training and Awareness:  All staff should receive basic first aid awareness training, including information on the location of first aid kits and the procedures for accessing them. Consider Unlocked "Minor Injury" Kits:  Schools could consider having smaller, unlocked "minor injury" kits readily available for dealing with common issues like cuts and grazes. These kits could contain basic supplies like plasters, antiseptic wipes, and bandages. Challenge the ‘Why?’:  If you believe your first aid kits should be locked away, challenge yourself - why?  Is it because this is the easiest, simplest or cheapest option rather than the best way to safeguard staff and pupils?  What are the reasons for you wanting to lock the kits away and is there another way to address these concerns? Conclusion: The decision to lock or unlock first aid kits in schools requires careful consideration of the specific context. A balanced approach that prioritises both accessibility and the prevention of misuse is crucial. We generally believe that first aid kits should be obvious, well signed and unlocked at all times. Our opinion is that it is important to ensure that the equipment can be easily accessed in an emergency, however, you know your setting better than us and we acknowledge that there are some rare circumstances where items need to be restricted.  We’re happy to work with you in this instance to find a way of enabling quick access for those who need it whilst addressing any concerns you may have over unauthorised access. Need Help? So, if you are still unsure what is the right approach for you, or want some advice please get in touch: hello@OodlesTraining.com Keywords: FirstAid, First Aid Kits, First Aider, Schools, Workplace, FAW, EFAW, First Aid at Work, Emergency First Aid at Work, First Aid Training

It’s great that, not only have you got a first aid certificate, but you are willing to support your new organisation in this way. You might be asking yourself, "Is my first aid qualification transferable?" In many cases, this is possible, but it will depend on a few things: Time Limits: First aid certificates don't last forever. They typically have an expiry date, usually three years from the date of training if they are courses such as FAW (First Aid at Work) or EFAW (Emergency First Aid at Work) , but it could be only a year for course like the Automatic External Defibrillator (AED) course. If your qualification has expired, it's no longer valid, and you'll need to renew your training. Even if your certificate is still technically valid, some employers or organisations might prefer you to refresh your skills sooner, especially if it is near the renewal date. The Type of First Aid Certificate: Different courses cover different aspects of first aid. A basic first aid awareness course isn't the same as a comprehensive First Aid at Work qualificatio n. The more comprehensive the training, the more likely it is to be accepted in different settings. For instance, an (Emergency) First Aid at Work certificate  is often a requirement for certain workplaces and is more likely to be transferable between similar roles, whereas, a shorter, more general first aid course might not meet those specific legal requirements. The Awarding Body: Look for training providers that adhere to recognised guidelines, such as those set by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), as these ensure quality and consistency in first aid training. Certificates from recognised courses and organisations (such as Oodles Training) are more likely to be accepted than those from less well-known providers, or that come from in house training. Workplace Requirements: Each workplace has its own specific needs and risk assessments, which determine the level of first aid cover required. Even if your first aid qualification is from a reputable provider, your new employer might require you to complete their own first aid training to ensure it aligns with their specific procedures and equipment. This is particularly common in high-risk environments. Voluntary Organisations: Many voluntary organisations, such as sports clubs or community groups, have their own first aid requirements. They might accept your existing certificate if it meets their standards, but they could also require you to undergo their own specific training.  I have lost My First Aid Certificate… At Oodles Training we believe it’s your  qualification - after all, you worked hard to get it!  So we will always send certificates to you as well as your employer. If you completed your training with us but you’ve lost your certificate and your old employer hasn’t given you a copy just get in touch and we’ll send you a digital replacement certificate.  No cost, no bother, that just seems fair! So, What Should You Do? Check your certificate : Look for the awarding body, the type of course, and the expiry date. Contact your potential employer or organisation : Ask them directly about their first aid requirements and whether your current certificate is acceptable. Don't assume it will be. Be prepared to update your training : Even if your certificate is technically valid, refreshing your skills is always a good idea. First aid techniques evolve, and regular updates ensure you're providing the best possible care. Need Help? If you are still unsure, or want some advice please get in touch: hello@OodlesTraining.com Keywords: FirstAid, First Aid Kits, First Aider, Schools, Workplace, FAW, EFAW, First Aid at Work, Emergency First Aid at Work, First Aid Training First Aid Certificate

In today's competitive job market, gaining relevant work experience is essential. But with many people vying for the same opportunities, how can you make yourself stand out? A first aid qualification can be really helpful on your CV, especially for many of the jobs that offer great work experience or temporary paid work. How Long Will It Take Me To A First Aid Qualification It won’t take you as long as you might think to get a first aid qualification, and there are many flexible ways to get one. There are some quick, online courses that offer a basic certificate in First Aid. There are also some industry recognised courses, such as the half day ‘ Basic Life Support’   or the one day ‘ Emergency First Aid at Work’ . If you are interested, and want more information, drop us an email ( hello@OodlesTraining.com ) Why First Aid Skills Are Valued by Employers Employers across various sectors recognise the importance of having staff with first aid knowledge. It demonstrates: Responsibility and Care : A willingness to learn first aid shows that you are responsible and care about the well-being of others. Practical Skills : First aid training equips you with practical skills that can be applied in real-life situations, demonstrating your ability to handle pressure and make quick decisions. Health and Safety Awarenes s: It shows that you are aware of potential hazards and committed to maintaining a safe environment. Teamwork and Communication : First aid often involves working with others and communicating effectively in stressful situations, highlighting valuable teamwork skills. How a First Aid Qualification Can Help You Get Work Experience Here are some ways a first aid qualification can enhance your work experience opportunities: Volunteering:  Many charities and non-profit organisations require volunteers with first aid skills. This can be a great way to gain experience in a variety of settings, from community centres to outdoor events. Sports and Leisure : Sports clubs, gyms, and leisure centres often need first aiders to cover training sessions and events. If you are helping with Sports Coaching, you are often required to have a certificate too. Education : Schools and other educational institutions value staff with first aid qualifications, particularly for roles involving children or vulnerable adults. Healthcare : While a basic first aid qualification might not be sufficient for clinical roles, it can be a stepping stone to gaining experience in healthcare settings, such as care homes or hospitals. Making the Most of Your First Aid Qualification Highlight it on your CV : Make sure your first aid qualification is prominently displayed on your CV and any application forms. Network:  Let people know about your qualification. You never know when someone might need a first aider for an event or activity. Volunteer:  Actively seek out volunteering opportunities where your first aid skills will be valuable. Be proactive:  If you're interested in a particular organisation or sector, contact them directly and inquire about work experience opportunities. How to get a First Aid Qualification Oodles Training ( www.oodlestraining.com ) offers a range of first aid courses to suit various needs and career aspirations. We can help you gain the qualifications and confidence to make a difference and enhance your employability. Contact us today to find out more about our courses and how they can help you achieve your goals. hello@OodlesTraining.com Keywords : First Aid, Employability, Schools, Work Experience, EFAW, Basic First Aid, First Aid Training

It's a question we get asked all the time: "What should be in my first aid kit?" The honest (but not very helpful) answer is... it depends! The specific contents of your first aid kit should be determined by a thorough risk assessment  of your workplace. In fact, it's a legal requirement for every workplace in the UK to have a first aid risk assessment. This document helps you determine: How many first aid kits you need:   Different areas may have different needs. What goes in each kit:  This will vary depending on the specific hazards and risks in each area. Required first aid training:  Your risk assessment will clarify how many staff members need basic first aid training, paediatric first aid, and the full 3-day First Aid at Work qualification. Starting with the British Standard A great starting point for your first aid kits is to ensure they meet British Standard (BS8599) . This standard provides a comprehensive list of essential items, including: Guidance Booklet HSE Medium Dressing (12 x 12cm) HSE Large Dressing (18 x 18cm) Triangular Bandages Sterile Finger Dressing Conforming Bandages Eye Pad Dressings Eye wash Plasters Wound Cleansing Wipe Microporous Tape Nitrile Powder-Free Gloves Resuscitation Aid / Barrier Foil Blanket Burn Dressing Shears Customizing Your Kit Once you have a BS8599 compliant kit, you can add or substitute items based on your risk assessment. For example, people often add items like: Ice packs Large plaster/adhesive dressing pads Tweezers Top Tip:  Look for kits that offer extra space! We sell BS8599 kits in a 'small' size packed into a 'medium' box, giving you room to add those extra essentials. Remember:  Not every first aid kit needs to be identical. The risks in some areas of your school or business are different, so adjust your kits accordingly! Need Help? If you are still unsure, feel free to send us your existing documents or policies for review. We also offer a comprehensive consultancy service to help schools develop robust risk assessments and first aid policies. Do get in touch: hello@OodlesTraining.com