HSE – Changes in Legislation

From 31st December 2016 the HSE is making changes to the syllabus for EFAW (Emergency First Aid at Work) and FAW (First Aid at Work) first aid training. Under this new revision all workplace first aiders will be required to have had some form of training in the use of automated external defibrillators (AED). So what does this mean?

If you are a training provider you will need to ensure that your syllabus is updated and that from 31st December you include training on defibrillators and assess the skills of course participants in the use of AEDs. Although there is no necessity to adopt this change prior to the end of December, training providers may find that it is advantageous to offer this updated training as soon as possible. Many workplaces are already looking at ensuring their staff attend refresher courses that include this new requirement.

To help you as a first aid training provider to be able to implement the changes as smoothly as possible we have developed a trainer equipment kit. This will provide you will all the essentials to be able to demonstrate and allow participation from delegates on your course, giving them the confidence to use these new skills in the future should the need arise.

SAM 500P Trainer Special OfferThe SAM 500P Trainer unit comes supplied with a remote control, giving you as the trainer full control over the simulation of the unit. Being able to remotely select from six different scenarios will give attendees the best training experience possible. This trainer unit does everything a real defibrillator does except it cannot administer a shock. Providing a learning experience that replicates that of the real life event will build trainees’ confidence and retention of the skills, maximising their effectiveness in the time of need. The kit also includes a preparation kit so that course delegates can really practice what they would do in the event of someone in their workplace suffering from a cardiac arrest, from cutting clothing to free the chest and also chest preparation.

Act now and take advantage of our introductory offer, order your trainer kit before 31st December 2016 and receive a 10% discount by quoting Defib16 at checkout.

For further information call 0800 612 6304 or visit our HeartSine SAM 500p Trainer Special Offer.

Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in Schools

In November 2014, the Department for Education published a set of guidelines relating to purchasing, installing and maintaining an automated external defibrillator (AED) in local authority maintained schools and academies. These guidelines were updated in October 2015 and provide invaluable help to describe what an AED is, why and when it is needed, and correct location and installation.
The Department for Education is encouraging all schools to purchase defibrillators as part of their first aid equipment. Their guide outlines a list of recommended minimum specifications that schools should look for when making their own purchasing arrangements, covering various aspects including the defibrillator’s environmental features, warranty period, facilities and accessories. The Defib Pad offers a wide range of units that comply with the majority of the listed specifications, including the two defibrillator models that are specifically recommended by the Department for Education:
Philips-FRx

Philips HeartStart FRx Defibrillator – robust design and manufactured by one of the largest electronics manufacturers.

Mediana-hearton-a15-defibrillator

Mediana HeartOn A15 Defibrillator – features a unique patient mode switch to easily alter defibrillation treatment for adults or paediatric patients without having to change pads or use a separate infant/child key.

A copy of the guidelines can be seen in the link below:
https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/466876/AED_guide_for_schools.pdf

The guidelines have been developed as an information tool only and advise that the “information provided is not definitive as decisions relating to the purchase and installation of AEDs are entirely for schools to determine.”
Should you require any further advice regarding defibrillators, accessories or training services, please visit our website: www.thedefibpad.co.uk or call 0800 612 6304 where we will be happy to assist.