The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) will no longer approve first aid training and qualifications for businesses under reforms which come into effect next month.
The changes to the Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981, which apply to all UK businesses, means firms are free to select a first aid training provider for themselves.
Ahead of the changes, effective October 1st 2013, the HSE has published guidance to help businesses put in place appropriate arrangements for the provision of first aid.
The regulator said the changes are part of its work to make it easier for businesses to understand how to comply with health and safety law.
Andy McGrory, HSE’s policy lead for first aid, said: “From October, HSE will no longer approve first-aid training and qualifications.
“The guidance documents clarify what the law requires and provide practical help to businesses in assessing and understanding their first aid needs. Where a first aider is required, the guidance documents make it clear that the employer is free to select a training provider who is best suited to those needs.”
The changes have been approved by the HSE Board and by Parliament.
It will still be a legal requirement for employers to ensure they make adequate provision for first aid, in accordance with their first aid needs assessment.
Copyright Press Association 2013