First aid cover

It has also advised employers that if first aid cover for their business is reduced because of coronavirus, or they are unable to get the first aid training they need, they should review their first aid needs assessment and decide if they can still provide the cover needed for the workers that are present and the activities they are doing.

If there are fewer people coming into the workplace, it advises, it may still be safe to operate with reduced first aid cover. Employers could stop high risk activities or share first aid cover with another business where they have suitable knowledge, experience and availability. Shared first aiders must be aware of the type of injuries or illnesses identified in the first aid needs assessment and have the training and skills to address them; know enough about the work environment and its first aid facilities; and be able to get to the workplace in good time if needed.

“Whoever provides the temporary cover must make sure they do not adversely affect their own first aid cover,” it adds.

HSE advice on qualifying for three-month extensions for first aid certificates (see page 227 below) that expire on or after 16 March 2020 where requalification cannot be accessed due to coronavirus, and on interrupted first aid training, can be found on the HSE website.