If you’re an employer, employee, or health and safety professional in the UK, understanding Level 3 First Aid at Work is essential. Whether you’re refreshing your qualifications or exploring training for your team, this guide answers the most common questions people have about First Aid and Level 3 First Aid at Work.
What is Level 3 First Aid at Work?
Level 3 First Aid at Work is a regulated qualification designed for individuals who wish to act as a first aider in the workplace. Accredited by First Aid Awards (FAA), this course meets the Health and Safety Executive’s (HSE) guidelines and covers emergency first aid, treatment for a range of injuries and illnesses, and the management of incidents.
The full specification can be found on the FAA website.
Who is the Level 3 First Aid at Work course for?
This course is ideal for:
- Employees designated as workplace first aiders
- Managers responsible for health and safety compliance
- Team leaders in environments with higher health risks
- Organisations operating in manufacturing, construction, warehousing, or customer-facing roles
Essentially, any employee in a medium to high-risk environment should consider this training.
Why is Level 3 First Aid at Work important for both employers and employees?
For Employers:
Under the Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981, employers are legally required to provide adequate first aid provision. The HSE’s L74 guidance outlines how to meet these obligations, including appropriate training and facilities. Selecting a qualified training provider is crucial, and the GEIS3 document supports employers in making informed choices.
For Employees:
Having qualified first aiders in the workplace creates a safer environment, boosts staff confidence, and can save lives. Workers equipped with Level 3 First Aid skills are valuable assets, especially in sectors where incidents are more likely.
Which roles require Level 3 First Aid at Work?
Although every workplace is different, these roles often require Level 3 First Aid training:
- Site supervisors and managers in construction
- Factory line leaders in manufacturing
- Security personnel
- School staff and caretakers
- Warehouse operatives
- Hotel managers
- Event coordinators
- Fitness and leisure centre staff
A proper risk assessment, as recommended in HSE documents L74 and GEIS3, will help determine how many first aiders your workplace needs.
How long does the Level 3 First Aid at Work qualification last?
Once completed, the Level 3 First Aid at Work qualification is valid for three years. HSE strongly recommends annual refresher training to maintain skills and knowledge, especially for first aiders in high-risk environments.
What are the duties and responsibilities of a first aider?
A qualified first aider is expected to:
- Respond promptly and effectively to emergencies
- Provide appropriate first aid until professional help arrives
- Maintain first aid equipment and records
- Communicate clearly with colleagues and emergency services
- Follow infection control procedures
- Remain calm and professional under pressure
These responsibilities ensure a safe, responsive workplace environment.
Who has legal responsibilities for first aid in the workplace?
Employers have the legal duty to:
- Assess first aid needs in the workplace
- Provide the correct equipment, facilities, and trained personnel
- Keep records and ensure training is up to date
Employees must cooperate with their employer’s health and safety policies and inform them of risks or issues that may impact first aid provision.
What will I learn in a Level 3 First Aid at Work course?
The course includes:
- Managing incidents and conducting primary surveys
- CPR for adults, children, and infants
- Use of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs)
- Dealing with bleeding, burns, fractures, and medical emergencies
- Recognising and treating shock, seizures, and allergic reactions
- Legal responsibilities, accident reporting, and hygiene
It’s a comprehensive course that prepares participants for real-life scenarios.
What should I learn after completing Level 3 First Aid at Work?
To build on your skills, you might consider:
- Paediatric First Aid (Level 3) – ideal for school and nursery settings
- Mental Health First Aid – increasingly important in modern workplaces
- First Aid for Outdoor Activities – useful for instructors or field workers
- Health and Safety in the Workplace (Level 3) – broadens your understanding of workplace risk
Continuous learning ensures you’re prepared for a wider range of situations and increases employability.
Why choose My Go To for your Level 3 First Aid at Work training?
My Go To is a trusted name in vocational training across the UK. Here’s why organisations consistently choose us:
- Expert instructors: With years of industry experience and a focus on quality.
- Flexible delivery: On-site or at our centres, with weekday and weekend options.
- Up-to-date content: Always aligned with current regulations and best practices.
- Outstanding support: From your initial enquiry to post-training assistance.
Conclusion
Investing in Level 3 First Aid at Work training is a smart and essential decision for any responsible employer or professional. It promotes a safer, more confident work environment, ensures legal compliance, and prepares individuals to respond when it matters most.
At My Go To we can help equip you with the first aid skills you need to be safe at work. View our range of first aid courses here, including Level 3 First Aid At Work.
