Why do First Aid Skills Need Refreshing?

In an emergency situation, knowing what to do can make the difference between life and death. Whether you're a designated first aider at work, a parent, or someone who simply wants to be prepared, keeping your first aid skills up to date is essential. In the UK, regular refreshers aren't just best practice—they're often a legal or regulatory requirement.

Why do First Aid Skills Need Refreshing?

1. Skills Fade Over Time

Research shows that without practice, first aid knowledge significantly declines within 6 to 12 months of training. Even trained first aiders may forget crucial steps, hesitate in an emergency, or be unaware of updated protocols.

2. Guidelines Change

First aid guidance evolves based on the latest medical research. For instance, changes in CPR ratios, the use of defibrillators (AEDs), and treatment approaches for conditions like sepsis, anaphylaxis, or catastrophic bleeding are reviewed and updated regularly by bodies such as the Resuscitation Council UK and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

3. Legal and Workplace Requirements

Employers have a duty under the Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981 to ensure that first aid provision is appropriate. The HSE recommends annual refresher training for qualified first aiders and a full requalification every 3 years. Failure to meet this standard can have serious legal consequences in the event of an incident.

The Best Ways to Your First Aid Knowledge Current

1. Annual Refresher Training

While not mandatory, the HSE strongly recommends annual 3-hour refresher courses for those with a First Aid at Work (FAW) or Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) qualification. These help keep confidence high and knowledge sharp.

2. Requalification Every 3 Years

FAW and EFAW certificates are valid for 3 years. To remain qualified, you must complete a requalification course before your certificate expires. If it does lapse, you may be required to retake the full course.

3. CPD and Online Learning

Supplement your knowledge with continuous professional development (CPD). Many providers offer short online courses on topics like CPR updates, managing asthma attacks, or dealing with mental health crises. This is especially useful for teachers, sports coaches, and parents.

4. Practice Makes Perfect

Use training manikins, role-play scenarios, or simulated exercises to keep your practical skills alive. Community groups, workplaces, or voluntary organisations like St John Ambulance and British Red Cross often run practice sessions.

5. Stay Informed

Subscribe to updates from Resuscitation Council UK

They regularly publish changes to procedures, emerging risks (e.g., new drug-related emergencies), and training advice.

Final Thoughts

First aid is a vital skill that saves lives, but it needs to be current to be effective. Whether it’s part of your job, a duty as a parent, or a personal commitment to being prepared, keeping your first aid training up to date is a smart and responsible choice.

Make it a habit. Make it a priority. Because when seconds count, what you know—and remember—matters most- learn how to save a life.