AED There are no major changes to the sequence of actions for AED users in the guidelines. However research has shown AED can be used safely and effectively without previous training. Training should however be encouraged to help improve the time to shock delivery and correct pad placement. X Adventure Activities will now include this training as part of the 3-day First Aid at Work course.   When will the new BSI standard come into force? BSI kits are effective from 30th June 2011, with a transitional introduction period until 31st December 2011. The HSE position The Health and Safety Executive have been closely involved in the creation of this standard, being members of the BSI standards committee. Why did we need a new standard? Despite many EU states having a national standard for workplace first aid kits, until now, the UK did not. The BHTA guidelines, established in 1997 were in need of revision because training protocols have changed, there are heightened concerns with infection control, and new technology is now available at affordable prices. There were only one pair of gloves in a 10 person kit – yet 33 dressings. There were 4 triangular bandages – even though the training protocols no longer indicate their use for immobilisation of lower limb fractures. Burns gel dressings are extensively used in first aid – now very available and affordable. The new kits have good quantities of plasters and wipes, a common criticism of the old ones. Contact X Adventure for advice on what should now be in a first aid kit     News New BSI standards for first aid kits. The items now found within first aid kits have changed and work places need to have these in place before January 2012 X Adventure Activities Ltd, 21 Shire Close, Chelmsford, Essex, CM1 6FW