Every workplace has a responsibility to keep staff and visitors safe. One of the simplest and most effective ways to do this is by ensuring people are trained in first aid.

At localmedic, we provide first aid courses that are both practical and compliant. Our training is regulated by Ofqual and delivered through Qualsafe Awards, one of the UK’s largest awarding organisations for first aid qualifications. That means every certificate we issue carries the assurance of a recognised national standard. Employers can be confident that training has been assessed, moderated, and meets strict quality requirements.

Is first aid training mandatory at work?

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) requires all employers to make adequate first aid provision. This does not always mean a full-time medical team, but it does mean having trained staff who can respond in an emergency. The number of first aiders you need depends on your workplace risk assessment, but in most cases at least one trained person should be present.

Who regulates first aid courses in the UK?

First aid qualifications are regulated by Ofqual, the official regulator for qualifications in England. Localmedic delivers training through Qualsafe Awards, one of the largest awarding organisations in the UK. This ensures every course we run is externally quality assured, moderated, and mapped to national standards.

Who are Qualsafe Awards?

Qualsafe Awards is an awarding organisation approved by Ofqual. When you complete a course certified by Qualsafe Awards, you receive a qualification that is widely recognised and trusted by employers, insurers, and the HSE. Being a registered Qualsafe centre means localmedic is audited regularly to maintain high standards in delivery and assessment.

What first aid courses meet HSE requirements?

The two main regulated workplace qualifications are:

• Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) – a one-day course covering life-saving skills such as CPR, use of a defibrillator, and managing emergencies.
• First Aid at Work (FAW) – a three-day course covering a wider range of injuries and illnesses.

Both meet the HSE’s requirements for approved training.

How long does a first aid certificate last?

Most first aid certificates are valid for three years. After this, you must take a refresher course to keep your qualification valid. The HSE also recommends short annual refreshers to keep skills sharp between re-certifications.

Why choose a regulated course?

Some providers offer unregulated training, often at lower cost. The risk is that these may not meet HSE expectations. If an accident happens, the employer is responsible for proving training was suitable. By choosing a regulated qualification with localmedic, you have a clear audit trail of compliance.

Why train with localmedic?

We are a registered Qualsafe Awards centre, providing trusted, compliant first aid training. Our instructors have real clinical experience and courses are designed to be practical and engaging. With us, you get:

• Certificates valid for three years.
• Training mapped to HSE requirements.
• Nationally recognised certification.
• Peace of mind that your workplace meets legal duties.