Basic first aider training: what does the law say?

Anyone who becomes a first aider at work starts with basic first aider training. But what exactly does the law say about the content, the duration and refresher training? The Belgian Code on well-being at work is fairly specific. An overview.

At least 15 hours of basic training

Basic training covers at least 15 teaching hours of 60 minutes, not counting the exam. These hours are spread over three blocks (Annex I.5-1).

What does basic first aider training cover?

Basic principles – at least 3 hours

• the role of the first aider;
• the equipment;
• record keeping;
• hygiene;
• raising the alarm;
• evacuation.

Vital functions – 6 hours

• unconsciousness, including seizures;
• breathing problems, including choking;
• chest pain;
• CPR with an AED.

Other injuries – 6 hours

• bleeding;
• wounds;
• injuries to bones, muscles and joints;
• head injury, including suspected spinal injury;
• burns;
• eye injuries, including eye rinsing.

Small groups and a certificate

There are at most 15 trainees per instructor. After an evaluation you receive a certificate (art. I.5-10). That leaves time to really practise every skill.

Refresher training: at least 4 hours a year

A certificate is not the finish line. First aiders follow at least 4 hours of refresher training every year (art. I.5-9).

• After a risk analysis and advice, the employer can reduce this to once every two years.
• A missed refresher must be made up within 12 months.
• If not, you take the full course again.

Why that rhythm matters: How often should you repeat your first aid training?.

Recognised training centres

Anyone trained by an organisation on the list of the FPS Employment is presumed to have the required knowledge. That gives employer and employee certainty that the training meets the law.

Specific risks require additional knowledge

Every company is different. Do you work with chemicals, at height or with machinery? Those specific risks require additional knowledge (art. I.5-13). Basic training is then the foundation, not the whole story. See First aid in the office versus on site.

The register of interventions

First aiders keep a register of every intervention (art. I.5-6 §3). They record:

• the name of the first aider;
• the name of the casualty;
• the place, date, time and description of the accident;
• the nature, date and time of the intervention;
• the witnesses.

Who can become a first aider?

How does a first aider differ from a designated person? Read First aider, designated person or EHBO: who is who?. And for the right number: How many first aiders does my company need?.

You can follow this training at P12 Training, a recognised training centre (included on the list of the FPS Employment, Labour and Social Dialogue). In Dutch, French or English, on site at your premises. Request a quote.

Source: FPS Employment – First aid (NL)