Once you know which first aid course your team needs, the next question is who should deliver it. There are lots of providers, and the choice is yours. Here is what employers need to know.
Short answer: The HSE no longer approves first aid training providers, so it is up to you as the employer to check that yours is competent. Ask who accredits the course, what experience the trainers have, how much is hands-on practice, and whether the length matches the HSE’s three-day minimum for First Aid at Work.
What the law expects of you
Since 1 October 2013, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) no longer approves first aid training providers. Instead, employers must make sure the provider they choose is competent to deliver the training. Depending on the provider you choose, that may mean carrying out due diligence, which simply means making reasonable enquiries into how they will deliver the course. The HSE cannot advise on the quality of individual providers.
Questions worth asking
- Who accredits or quality assures the course, and can they show you evidence of it?
- What qualifications and experience do the trainers have?
- Does the course length and content match what you are paying for? The HSE says a First Aid at Work course should run over a minimum of three days.
- How much of the course is hands-on practice, such as CPR on a manikin?
- Is the provider insured, and how are certificates issued and recorded?
- Can they come to your workplace, or where will the training take place?
Keep a record of your decision
It is sensible to keep a short note of why you chose a provider and what you checked. If you are ever asked how you decided, you will have an answer.
About our courses
H2H Training courses are FAIB-accredited, and we are happy to answer any of the questions above. You can see the courses we offer on our first aid courses page. Not sure which one you need? Our guide to EFAW or FAW is a good place to start. This article is general guidance rather than legal advice.
Written by Graham Hepburn and Rachel Hawkins, FAIB-registered trainers at H2H Training. Last reviewed October 2026. Graham on LinkedIn Rachel on LinkedIn
