PLEASE NOTE: The information on this page has been superseded by new guidance - please do not follow any advice on this page. To view the latest guidance click here.  

Published 6 April 2022

During the COVID-19 pandemic, RLSS UK has remained committed to supporting the industry, Operators, Trainers, Instructors, Clubs and Training Centres.  We have created guidance by working with our expert advisors and partners and using information from various government groups and other organisations. 

The time has come when COVID-19 guidance from local governments and organisations is reduced and have therefore removed the previous guidance documents and have provided the information below to help and support you to continue to deliver training and assessments. 

Guidance for Training and Assessing  

1. The only adaptation to assessment that will be permitted is for rescue breaths - all other adaptations during assessment have now been removed. Click here for guidance for training and assessing rescue breaths.
   
   
2. Training should continue to include the adaptions to CPR in real life if a casualty is known or suspected to be suffering from COVID-19 (see RCUK link below).
   
   
3. Ensure you comply with general Coronavirus government guidance based on your geographical location.
   
   
4. Ensure the training venue has adequate ventilation (with exception of the swimming pool hall) in line with HSE guidance.
    
5. Ensure a risk assessment is in place and regularly reviewed - considering the changing prevalence of COVID-19 and continuing pandemic. Click here for an example risk assessment for training and assessment during COVID-19.
   
   
6. It is strongly advised that candidates attending training or assessment are encouraged to:
   - if available, take a lateral flow test 24 hours prior to attending a training course.
   - not attend if they have symptoms related to COVID-19 as described by the relevant Department for Health.  
   - wear a face covering when attending training venues (unless medically exempt) particularly, when undertaking close practical work, e.g. placing someone into the recovery position (*face covering must not be worn in the water when there is a risk of the wearer being submerged underwater).
   
   
7. Ensure manikins used for resuscitation are maintained, and control measures (to prevent cross-contamination) are in place. Click here for CPR manikin cleaning, and maintenance guidance during COVID-19 breaths.
   
   
8. Candidate applications for training or assessment should include information about the risk of contracting COVID-19. Click here for sample additional information to be added to the Course or Assessment Enrolment Form(s).

---

Useful links: 

• gov.ie - COVID-19 (Coronavirus) (www.gov.ie) 
• gov.wales/coronavirus 
• www.gov.uk/guidance/covid-19-coronavirus-restrictions-what-you-can-and-cannot-do 
• www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/coronavirus-covid-19-how-stay-safe-and-help-prevent-spread 
• www.gov.scot/coronavirus-covid-19/ 
• Home - First Aid Awarding Organisation Forum (firstaidqualifications.org.uk)  
• COVID-19 Resources: Teaching resuscitation and first-aid techniques | Resuscitation Council UK 
• Resuscitation Council UK Statement on COVID-19 in relation to CPR and resuscitation in first aid and community settings | Resuscitation Council UK 

---

Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us by email at [email protected] or 0300 3230 096.