The HSE has announced that from 31st December 2016 all First Aid at Work training courses must include training in the use of AED (Automatic External Defibrillator).
AED’s are becoming more commonplace, with London Underground Stations and large workplaces installing them for use in emergency situations. Whilst their use is generally reserved for those with appropriate training, as of 31st December this will include anyone who has successfully completed a First Aid at Work course.
Lazarus Training Ltd, a HSE approved provider of a range of First Aid Training courses, tells us why training in the use of an AED is so important:
“Automated External Defibrillator training is quickly becoming common in the workplace. Heart disease is one of the main causes of death in the UK. In event of someone collapsing following a heart attack, they may be in cardiac arrest in which case time is life. The quicker this person receives a controlled electrical shock the higher their chances of survival. More and more workplaces are starting to include Automated External Defibrillator [AED] training in the first aid training for their staff.
United Kingdom Resuscitation Council guidelines emphasise the importance of early defibrillation as part of the chain of survival in victims of cardiac arrest. Whilst AEDs are becoming simpler, the additional confidence from AED training can result in workplace first aiders being able to administer a shock quicker than those untrained in the use of an AED.”
With the new requirements coming into force at the end of this year, now may be a good time to refresh or make additions to your employee’s training. Having trained First Aiders in the workplace is a requirement of British law under The Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981, for those with OHSAS 18001, and is becoming more commonplace in other Certifications.
For guidance on legal requirements, Health & Safety and International Standards, contact us:
http://assentriskmanagement.co.uk/ 020 3432 2854
For Information on a wide range of First Aid Training in the UK and internationally, contact Lazarus Training:
http://lazarustraining.co.uk 0800 2425210