First Aid

How Long is First Aid Certification Good For

Ricky Kambray
Ricky Kambray

Many people frequently ask how long first aid certification is good for. Depending on the types of first aid (ACLS, Basic first aid and CPR, NRP, PALS), first aid certification can last up to two to three years. But it needs to be renewed after this period. According to Campaign Live, first aid could save up to 140,000 lives each year.

First Aid Certification is a necessary step on the path to becoming a fully qualified medical practitioner. Keep reading this blog; you can find your desired answer about how long is first aid certification good for

Group of people with the instructor performing CPR first aid training on a dummy

 

How Long is First Aid Certification Good for?

First aid certification is a necessary qualification for healthcare professionals. First aid is a tool which we need in medical emergencies. As per HSE, Certificates for first aid at work last for three years.

Before their certificates expire, first-aiders must undertake a requalification course to obtain another three-year certificate. Once credentials have passed, the first aider is no longer considered competent to act as a workplace first aider.

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So, it’s essential to regularly check the expiry date of your certificate to access immediate first-aid assistance in times of need. There are three first-aid certification types, and these three have time limits. Depending on the type of qualification, your first aid certificate will be valid for different lengths of time. For example,

ACLS: Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) usually takes one day to complete. Your certification will need to be renewed every two years.

Basic First Aid and CPR: In this CPR training class, you can earn your certificate through online courses. Basic online training certification takes roughly an hour to finish and is valid for three years.

NRP: Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) certification is for healthcare professionals who help deliver babies. There are two options: self-paced online training and in-person classes taught by an expert instructor. This is also valid for two years.

PALS: Pediatric Advanced Life Support; this first aid certification is also for medical personnel and healthcare professionals who work with paediatric emergencies. Most PALS certification courses take approximately two days. It is valid for two years; you’ll need to renew your certificate after that.

Two female paramedics with an emergency first aid bag stand by an ambulance

 

CPR Refers to medical procedures and techniques that solve problems to treat life-threatening cardiac emergencies such as cardiac arrest and stroke. CPR Plus includes- Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), Automated External Defibrillator (AED) and First Aid training.

Here we also share with you some recognised institutes for CPR courses. For example-

  • American Heart Association (AHA)
  • American Red Cross
  • The British Red Cross
  • Australian Red Cross

You can take a Pet First Aid and CPR course at Study Plex. This comprehensive course will teach you the theory of effective pet care or animal care practice. It equips you with the essential skills, confidence, and competence to assist you in the pet or animal care industry.

Top quality service concept on screen

 

How Long is the CPR Certificate Valid?

Validity of the CPR certificate varies on the standard and the country where you were trained. CPR certifications can last from one to two years. It Observe the deadline for renewing your certification so you can enrol in any additional classes or updates required to keep it current.

As a trainer, you must also ensure that those certified under you have the necessary certifications. So, don’t forget to update your CPR certificate.

First Aid Renewal & Recertification

HSE suggests that first-aiders undergo annual refresher training. It takes over half a day during any three-year certification period. In addition, it will help qualified first-aiders retain their basic skills and remain updated with first-aid procedures. 

Complete 2-day refresher training to renew your First Aid at Work Certificate; you can also brush up on your knowledge by recertification online classes. However, CPR Classes are also available online. So easily you can refresh your CPR skills and learn new techniques during the online CPR certification renewal.

First aid certificate template

 

How can I Use my First Aid Certification?

You have a first aid certificate, congratulations. Now you possess a unique skill set. With your certification, you can work in various settings with real-life situations.

Here are some places are given below-

  1. Offices 
  2. Schools or colleges
  3. Health organisations 
  4. Volunteer with local organisations 
  5. hospitals and fire departments 
  6. Construction site

Your first aid certification provides you with endless possibilities!

Conclusion

So, there you have it! You get the most desired answer, how long is first aid certification good for? It is a standard procedure to help injured people. It can be an adult or a child. You will receive a certificate upon completion of each course. So, saving someone else’s life and honouring it is easy. So, think about it carefully and become a rewarding and honourable person. Thanks for reading!

 

Frequently Asked Questions [FAQ]

 

Do first aid qualifications expire?

Yes, after two or two-three years, it will expire. It helps qualified first-aiders maintain their basic skills and keep up to date with any changes in first-aid procedures. 

What does recertification mean for first aid?

First aid recertification classes allow you to refresh your memory and skills, learn new techniques, and keep your memory sharp – so that you’re ready to respond in an emergency.

Can I perform first aid if my certificate has expired?

No, According to The Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981, employers must ensure that employees receive immediate attention if they are injured at work. For example, if your first aid certificate expires and your company has no other trained first aiders, then the employer may violate these regulations. 

Is first aid a skill or a qualification?

First aid is considered a skill or qualification, especially in work.

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Ricky Kambray

Hey this is Ricky Kambray an award-winning first-aid trainer with over 20 years of healthcare and teaching expertise. Highly certified general nurse regularly appears in the press discussing accident prevention and first aid advice.