GEIS3 is the HSE’s guidance document designed to assist employers in selecting a competent and compliant first aid training provider.
The First Aid Training Provider compliance checklist outlines the essential criteria for assessing the suitability and compliance of first aid training providers in line with statutory requirements for First Aid at Work (FAW) and Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) training.
Key compliance areas
Training Quality Standards
- Course content aligns with HSE and Resuscitation Council UK guidelines.
- Training includes sufficient hands-on practice and interactive learning.
- Class sizes are limited (typically 12 learners per trainer) to ensure quality.
Trainer and Assessor Competency
- Instructors hold recognized teaching qualifications (e.g. Level 3 AET).
- Competence is verified through internal or external quality assurance.
- Ongoing continuing professional development (CPD) is required.
Quality Assurance Systems
- Providers must have documented quality assurance procedures.
- Records of assessments, feedback, and complaints are maintained.
- Standardisation ensures consistent delivery across courses.
Certification
- Certificates must state key information (learner and provider names, course title, duration, and expiry date – usually 3 years).
Learning Outcomes and Assessment
- Learners must complete both practical and theoretical assessments with clear pass/fail criteria.
Administrative Practices
- Advance provision of course materials and instructions.
- Full attendance and assessment records kept.
Tailored Training (if applicable)
- Training should reflect the specific risks identified by the employer’s workplace assessment, with optional modules for high-risk environments.