This update is aimed mainly at HSE approved First Aid at Work (FAW) training providers. It addresses the future fees for approval and monitoring activities and a change to the current requirement to submit course notification forms (MS79s) to HSE.

The Health and Safety (Fees) Regulations 2007

In November 2005, HSE consulted FAW training providers on fees for chargeable activities carried out under the Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981 and the Offshore Installations and Pipeline Works (First-Aid) Regulations 1989. Following consultation, HSE recommended to the Health and Safety Commission that fees for FAW approval, monitoring and certificate renewal should be increased by 12% for 2006/07. At the same time it was noted that future increases at this level would lead to full cost recovery by HSE in 2009/10. HSE is required by HM Treasury guidelines to effect full cost recovery in its statutory charging schemes. The Commission agreed the proposed changes to the fees, which were then submitted to Ministers.

In line with the above, HSE will recommend to the Commission, a 12% increase in the fees for 2007/08 (starting in April 2007). HSE is continuing to consider the future of approval and monitoring and this will include examination of any implications for the fees structure for 2008/09 and beyond.

Course notification forms (MS79s)

In considering the future of approval and monitoring, HSE has reviewed the current requirement for FAW training providers to submit course notification forms to HSE. One particular issue that has been previously raised with HSE by the First Aid at Work Council relates to the need for submitting the forms at least four weeks before the start date of each training course.

In order to further streamline procedures within its First Aid Approval and Monitoring Section (FAAMS), HSE has decided that training providers will no longer be required to submit course notification forms. Therefore, FAW courses can be arranged to run at any time without reference to HSE. It is envisaged that the Contractor who undertakes monitoring activities on behalf of HSE, will contact training providers directly for information on planned courses, when appropriate.

In removing the need to notify HSE of courses, training providers are reminded that they should:

• run at least 6 courses per year to maintain approval status;
• notify HSE at the earliest opportunity of any changes in contact details.

These new arrangements will take effect from 1 December 2006 and update previous guidance for training providers in HSE's publication: 'The training of first aid at work – a guide to gaining and maintaining HSE approval' (HSG212).