At OHSS, we specialise in providing expert Health and Safety Training in the North West of England, supporting businesses across Cheshire, Merseyside, Lancashire, Greater Manchester, and Cumbria. This blog answers your key questions about health and safety training, helping you stay compliant with UK Health and Safety legislation and protect your workforce.

How should health and safety training be given to employees?

Health and safety training should be delivered in a way that is clear, practical, and relevant to your industry and workplace. At OHSS, we provide Health and Safety Training in the North West using a mix of methods, including:

  • Classroom-based training at your site or ours

  • Practical, hands-on sessions

  • Toolbox talks and safety briefings

  • Online and blended learning options

Training must be easy to understand, with content tailored to the specific risks in your workplace.

How often does health and safety training need to be done?

There is no fixed timeframe under UK law, but Health and Safety Training in the North West should be provided:

  • At induction for new employees

  • When new risks arise, such as introducing new equipment or processes

  • After incidents or near-misses

  • Periodically, as refresher training – best practice suggests annual reviews for most workplace risks

Regular health and safety training updates help ensure ongoing compliance and safety awareness.

How often should first aid training be completed in the UK?

In the UK, the Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981 require employers to ensure that first aiders receive regular training to maintain their skills and knowledge.

The recommended frequency is:

✅ First Aid at Work (FAW) – Every 3 years (full 3-day requalification)
✅ Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) – Every 3 years (1-day refresher)
✅ Annual refresher training (3-hour session) – strongly recommended by the HSE to keep skills up to date between formal courses.

Employers should review their first aid needs assessment regularly, as workplace changes (e.g., new equipment or processes) might mean more frequent training or additional first aiders are needed.

How long does health and safety training last?

The length of health and safety training depends on the topic:

  • Basic Health and Safety Awareness: Half-day

  • Manual Handling: Half to one day

  • First Aid at Work: Three days

  • Refresher courses: Shorter sessions, typically 2–4 hours

At OHSS, we design training to suit your business needs, ensuring it’s time-efficient and effective.

What health and safety training is mandatory in the UK?

Employers must provide mandatory health and safety training based on their risk assessments. This typically includes:

  • Health and Safety Induction for all staff

  • Manual Handling Training for those handling loads

  • Display Screen Equipment (DSE) Training for office workers

  • Fire Safety Training and Fire Marshal Training

  • First Aid Training (with trained first aiders on-site)

  • COSHH Training for hazardous substances

  • Asbestos Awareness and Work at Height Training where relevant

We offer all these mandatory health and safety courses across the North West, ensuring businesses remain compliant.

What does health and safety training include?

Our Health and Safety Training in the North West covers:
✅ Legal responsibilities under the Health and Safety at Work Act
✅ Identifying and managing risks
✅ Emergency procedures and reporting
✅ PPE use and maintenance
✅ Safe working practices specific to your sector

Training is designed to be practical, engaging, and industry-relevant.

What is health and safety training in the workplace?

Health and safety training equips employees with the knowledge and skills to:

  • Identify hazards

  • Reduce risks

  • Follow safe systems of work

  • Respond to emergencies

It’s a legal requirement under UK legislation and an essential part of running a safe and successful business.

Who needs health and safety training?

All employees require health and safety training, including:

  • New starters and apprentices

  • Managers and supervisors

  • Contractors and agency workers

  • Self-employed workers on your site

We provide tailored health and safety training in the North West to suit your workforce and industry.

Why is health and safety training important?

Health and safety training is vital to:
✅ Prevent accidents and injuries
✅ Ensure legal compliance
✅ Protect employee wellbeing
✅ Reduce costs from claims and lost time
✅ Promote a strong safety culture

Businesses in the North West can rely on OHSS for expert training solutions that make a real difference.

Ready to Book Health and Safety Training in the North West?

Contact OHSS today for tailored Health and Safety Training across Cheshire, Merseyside, Lancashire, Greater Manchester, and Cumbria.

✅ Accredited trainers
✅ Flexible delivery options
✅ Practical, industry-relevant content

Let us help you meet your legal obligations and protect your team.