Annual First Aid Refresher

First aid skills fade. This session makes sure they don't.

Holding an EFAW certificate is just the beginning. Research consistently shows that first aid confidence and recall decline significantly within 12 months of training without practice, the skills that could save a colleague's life become hesitant and uncertain when it matters most.

The HSE strongly recommends that all certified first aiders attend an annual refresher session, even though full recertification is only required every three years. Our half-day refresher is a focused, hands-on practical session that re-sharpens the skills your team already hold CPR technique, AED confidence, casualty management, and more.

There's no theory module, no pre-learning, and no exam. Just a practical, expert-led session that leaves your team genuinely more confident than when they walked in.

What the session covers

• CPR technique refreshing adult technique, common errors, and building muscle memory
• AED practice hands-on defibrillator use with realistic scenario work
• Primary survey scene safety, responsiveness, and calling for help
• Recovery position correct technique and when to use it
• Choking response adult technique, reinforcing correct procedure
• Shock and bleeding management and when to escalate
• Scenario practice realistic first aid situations to build confidence under pressure
• Q&A candidates can raise situations they've encountered or are concerned about

Session format

Who should attend?

This session is ideal for anyone who holds a current EFAW or FAW certificate and wants to maintain their confidence and competence. It's equally valuable for those whose certificate has recently lapsed a refresher can re-establish skills quickly ahead of a full recertification, or simply keep skills sharp while you arrange the next full course.

For businesses, booking an annual refresher for your first aiders is one of the most cost-effective ways to demonstrate ongoing due diligence and ensure your team can act effectively in an emergency not just on the day they were tested.

If your team's certificates have lapsed entirely and they need full recertification, we'd recommend the EFAW course instead. Not sure which is right for your situation? Give us a call we'll advise you honestly.

Frequently Asked Questions