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Update on Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Home First Aid Training Info for Participant... Infection Control

Updated 20 October 2022

In mid-October COVID restrictions in relation to face masks and isolating after a positive test result were eased.  The safety of our students remains of the highest priority to St John however, and we will continue to maintain high levels of infection control, with the following applying to first aid classes:

  • While no longer mandated, the wearing of face masks when unable to physical distance is strongly recommended by the Victorian government.  During practical first aid exercises students will be encouraged by their trainer to wear face masks, both to protect our students and to reinforce the sound infection control practices a first aider must perform.
  • In line with the government’s recommendation, we strongly encourage students who have tested positive for COVID in the previous 5 days to isolate, and to rebook their class for a later date. This will be offered at no charge to the student.

In addition, reasonable adjustments related to COVID-19 infection control are no longer permitted by training regulators, and students will be required to make physical contact with other students in order to demonstrate first aid skills, for example, bandaging, anaphylaxis, etc.

100% online classes continue to be available for both public students and corporate bookings:  https://www.stjohnvic.com.au/online-courses/ .

Updated 8 July 2022

First aid training

In line with the easing of COVID restrictions in the community and within adult education, the following applies to our face to face classes:

  • Students are no longer required to present evidence of vaccination for public first aid classes (vaccination requirements may apply to Certificate III and Diploma courses).
  • Standard assessment practices during classes may include the requirement for students to make physical contact with each other while performing first aid skills.  A reasonable adjustment can be applied if a student would prefer not to make physical contact, students should discuss this with their trainer on the day of the class.
  • Students will be required to wear a mask (unless they are exempt) and perform hand hygiene during any assessments where physical distancing cannot be maintained.
  • 100% online classes continue to be available for both public students and corporate bookings:  https://www.stjohnvic.com.au/online-courses/

Updated 27 October 2021

FIRST AID TRAINING

Further to the easing of restrictions at the 80% vaccination target, as of 6pm Friday 29th October all students of higher education and skills providers are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 to attend onsite training. This means the following:

  • As of Saturday 30th October all students visiting our public training venues must present evidence they are fully vaccinated, unless they have evidence of a medical exemption

Updated 25 October 2021

FIRST AID TRAINING

With the roadmap to reopening and restrictions easing, we welcome students back to our public training venues in Metropolitan Melbourne as well as throughout Regional Victoria. Details are as follows:

  • First Aid training classes at public venues in Metropolitan Melbourne resumes Tuesday 26th October, pending venue availability. 
  • First Aid training will continue for onsite classes in Metropolitan Melbourne for all industries and occupations.
  • First aid training classes either onsite or public in regional Victoria continue unless local venue restrictions apply.
  • Small class sizes apply to ensure density requirements are met.
  • All students are required to wear masks in our training venues.
  • All students are required to check in via the Services Victoria app.
  • All staff have been vaccinated against COVID.
  • COVID vaccinations are strongly encouraged for students.
  • From 26th November onwards all students at our public classes are required to be fully vaccinated, this date is likely to be brought forward. However Bendigo and Cheltenham require all students to be fully vaccinated by 29th October, more venues may follow.

Updated 21September 2021

FIRST AID TRAINING

In line with the latest restrictions announced, the following will apply to First Aid Training:

  • First Aid training classes at public venues in Metropolitan Melbourne are postponed until 26 October. Virtual options are available. 
  • First Aid training will continue for onsite classes in Metropolitan Melbourne for authorised occupations and activities only: https://www.premier.vic.gov.au/sites/default/files/2021-08/20210805%20Restrictions%20Change.pdf
  • First aid training classes either onsite or public in regional Victoria continue unless local lockdowns or venue restrictions apply.

Affected students who wish to reschedule from a face-to-face to a virtual class can do so here. Those who wish to reschedule to a face-to-face class can do so here. If you need assistance please phone 1300 360 455.

Updated 16 September 2021

FIRST AID TRAINING

In line with the latest restrictions announced, the following will apply to First Aid Training:

  • First Aid training classes at public and onsite venues in Shepparton resume from Thursday 16th September, subject to venue availability. Some students may be affected due to maximum class sizes capped at 10 students. Affected students will be contacted to reschedule.
  • First Aid training classes at public venues in Ballarat is now postponed until Thursday 23rd September.
  • First Aid training classes at public venues in Metropolitan Melbourne remains postponed until Thursday 23rd September.
  • First Aid training will continue for onsite classes in Metropolitan Melbourne for authorised occupations and activities only: https://www.premier.vic.gov.au/sites/default/files/2021-08/20210805%20Restrictions%20Change.pdf

Affected students who wish to reschedule from a face-to-face to a virtual class can do so here. Those who wish to reschedule to a face-to-face class can do so here. If you need assistance please phone 1300 360 455.

Updated 8 September 2021

FIRST AID TRAINING

In line with the latest restrictions announced, the following will apply to First Aid Training:

  • First Aid training classes at public and onsite venues in Regional Victoria (excluding Shepparton) will resume on Friday 10th September, subject to venue availability. Some students may be affected due to maximum class sizes capped at 10 students. Affected students will be contacted to reschedule.
  • First Aid training classes at public venues in Metropolitan Melbourne remains postponed until Thursday 23rd September.
  • First Aid training will continue for onsite classes in Metropolitan Melbourne for authorised occupations and activities only: https://www.premier.vic.gov.au/sites/default/files/2021-08/20210805%20Restrictions%20Change.pdf

Affected students who wish to reschedule from a face-to-face to a virtual class can do so here. Those who wish to reschedule to a face-to-face class can do so here. If you need assistance please phone 1300 360 455.

Updated 1 September 2021

FIRST AID TRAINING

In line with the latest restrictions announced, the following will apply to First Aid Training:

  • First Aid training classes at public venues in Metropolitan Melbourne will be postponed until Thursday 23rd September. Affected students will be contacted with further details.
  • First Aid training classes at public venues in Regional Victoria will be postponed until Thursday 9th September. Affected students will be contacted with further details.
  • First Aid training will continue for onsite classes for authorised occupations and activities only: https://www.premier.vic.gov.au/sites/default/files/2021-08/20210805%20Restrictions%20Change.pdf
  • It is strongly recommended all students book Virtual First Aid Training due to the uncertainty of future restrictions easing beyond 23 September. For those with existing bookings for face-to-face training, it is recommend to transfer to a Virtual class rather than wait for face-to-face training.

Affected students who wish to reschedule from a face-to-face to a virtual class can do so here. Those who wish to reschedule to a face-to-face class can do so here. If you need assistance please phone 1300 360 455.

Updated 23 August 2021

FIRST AID TRAINING

In line with the latest restrictions announced, until 11:59pm on Thursday 2nd September, the following will apply to First Aid Training:

Affected students who wish to reschedule their training can do so here or phone 1300 360 455 for assistance

Updated 16 August 2021

FIRST AID TRAINING

In line with the latest restrictions announced, until 11:59pm on Thursday 2nd September, the following will apply to First Aid Training:

  • First Aid training classes at public venues in Metropolitan Melbourne will be postponed until Friday 3rd September. Affected students will be contacted with further details.
  • First Aid training classes at public and onsite venues in Regional Victoria will continue.
  • First Aid training will continue for onsite classes in Metropolitan Melbourne for authorised occupations and activities only: https://www.premier.vic.gov.au/sites/default/files/2021-08/20210805%20Restrictions%20Change.pdf

Affected students who wish to reschedule their training can do so here or phone 1300 360 455 for assistance.

Updated 11 August 2021

FIRST AID TRAINING

In line with the latest restrictions announced, until 11:59pm on Thursday 19th August, the following will apply to First Aid Training:

  • First Aid training classes at public venues in Metropolitan Melbourne will be postponed until Friday 20th August. Affected students will be contacted with further details.
  • First Aid training classes at public and onsite venues in Regional Victoria will resume.
  • First Aid training will continue for onsite classes in Metropolitan Melbourne for authorised occupations and activities only: https://www.premier.vic.gov.au/sites/default/files/2021-08/20210805%20Restrictions%20Change.pdf

Affected students who wish to reschedule their training can do so here or phone 1300 360 455 for assistance.

Updated 27 July 2021

First Aid Training

In line with the latest restrictions announced, from Wednesday 28th July, the following will apply to First Aid Training:

  • Training at our public venues throughout Metropolitan Melbourne and Regional Victoria will recommence with a maximum of 10 students per class.  This is subject to venue availability and our Customer Service team will contact students individually if there is a need for them to be rescheduled to an alternative date.
  • Training onsite at client workplaces may recommence throughout Metropolitan Melbourne and Regional Victoria, depending on group size and venue restrictions, to be assessed by the client.
  • Masks are required to be worn at all metropolitan, regional and onsite classes
  • We will be observing a density quotient of 1 person per 4 square metres in all classes

Updated 20 July 2021

FIRST AID TRAINING

In line with the latest restrictions announced, until 11:59pm on Tuesday 27th July, the following will apply to First Aid Training:

Affected students who wish to reschedule their training can do so here or phone 1300 360 455 for assistance.

Updated 15 July 2021

FIRST AID TRAINING

In line with the latest restrictions announced, from 11:59pm on 15th July until 11:59pm on 20th July, the following will apply to First Aid Training:

Affected students who wish to reschedule their training can do so here or phone 1300 360 455 for assistance.

Updated 16 June 2021

FIRST AID TRAINING

In line with the latest restrictions announced, from Friday 18th June, the following will apply to First Aid Training:

  • Training at our public venues in Metropolitan Melbourne will increase to a maximum of 20 students per class
  • Masks remain a requirement at all metropolitan, regional and onsite classes
  • We will be observing a density quotient of 1 person per 4 square metres in all classes

Updated 9 June 2021

FIRST AID TRAINING

In line with the latest restrictions announced, from Friday 11th June, the following will apply to First Aid Training:

  • Training at our public venues in Metropolitan Melbourne will recommence with a maximum of 10 students per class.   Our Customer Service team will contact students individually if there is a need for them to be rescheduled to an alternative date.
  • Training in Regional Victorian classes will be capped at 20 students, unless additional restrictions apply at a particular training facility.
  • Training onsite at client workplaces may recommence throughout Metropolitan Melbourne and Regional Victoria, depending on group size and venue restrictions, to be assessed by the client.
  • Masks are required to be worn at all metropolitan, regional and onsite classes
  • We will be observing a density quotient of 1 person per 4 square metres in all classes

Updated 2 June 2021

First Aid Training

In line with the recent extension of restrictions in Victoria, there are several updates regarding first aid training in Metropolitan Melbourne and Regional Victoria.

Metropolitan Melbourne:

Affected students, please submit your details to register for a new class after the 10th of June here or phone 1300 360 455 for assistance.

Regional Victoria:

  • Public and corporate classes will proceed in Regional Victoria from 11:59PM Thursday 3rd June, observing all current restrictions
  • As per the government requirements students will must wear masks indoors
  • Our public classes are open only to students who reside in Regional Victoria. Trainers will be checking student ID on arrival, so please bring photo ID with proof of address.

Updated 25 May 2021

All First Aid Training is still scheduled to continue at all of our Victorian venues, including group onsite training at workplaces at this time. We have strict COVID Safe measures in place, and staff and students in Greater Melbourne will be required to wear face masks in line with new restrictions.

Important changes:

Be assured we are continuing to monitor all latest advice and will keep you up to date should the situation change.

Updated 16 April 2021

In line with recent changes to Coronavirus restrictions, training classes are now capped at 19 students per class.

Updated 17 February 2021

As of the 18th February, all commercial First Aid Training will resume.

  • First Aid training classes at public venues in Victoria will go ahead from the 18th February onwards. Students who are booked into classes on the 18th February can attend as scheduled.
  • First Aid training will continue for onsite classes in Victoria.

Updated 12 February 2021

FIRST AID TRAINING

In line with the latest Stage 4 restrictions announced, from 11:59pm on 12th February until 11:59pm on the 17th February, the following will apply to First Aid Training:

Updated: 11 December 2020

First Aid training class sizes will increase inclusive of 1.5m physical distancing and density quotient of 2m2.

  • Public classes at Melbourne CBD and Geelong venues will increase maximum class sizes from 12 to 16
  • All other public classes venues to increase in permissible student maximums from the 4th of January 2020, this will be venue specific because some will not be able to achieve the permissible 2m2 density quotient or 1.5m physical distancing
  • Students will be spaced 1.5 m apart for physical distancing and will be asked to wear a mask when moving from their seat for assessments
  • Onsite Group classes will increase maximum class sizes from 12 to 16 (larger sizes possible and require approval to proceed)

Updated: 11 November 2020

First Aid training class sizes will increase inclusive of 1.5m physical distancing and density quotient of 4m2.

  • Public classes will increase maximum class sizes from 10 to 12
  • Onsite Group classes will still have a maximum of 12 students (larger sizes possible dependent on training space provided)
  • 100% Virtual First Aid classes will still have a maximum of 8 students

Updated: 2 November 2020

First Aid training class sizes will increase inclusive of 1.5m physical distancing and density quotient of 4m2.

  • Public classes will increase maximum class sizes from 8 to 10
  • Onsite Group classes will increase maximum class sizes from 8 to 12 (larger sizes possible dependent on training space provided)
  • 100% Virtual First Aid classes will still have a maximum of 8 students

Updated 26 October 2020

FIRST AID TRAINING

As of 29 October 2020, St John Ambulance Victoria will be reopening commercial training operations in the Melbourne metropolitan area in addition to regional Victoria, consistent with the easing of COVID-19 restrictions. Both onsite and public training is now available to book for all customers.

For the continued safety of staff and students additional measures are in place:

  • Smaller class sizes capped at 8 students
  • PPE including masks and gloves are available at our classes for students
  • Temperature screening will take place for all people entering our training venues
  • No contact first aid training: this means students will not be required to practice first aid techniques on other students or staff, only on themselves or a manikin. For example bandaging, CPR, recovery position and use of EpiPens will not be conducted on others. Students will be directed not to breathe into a manikin at this time.
  • Increased cleaning of our equipment after every class
  • Alcohol based hand sanitiser is available throughout the venue for use upon arrival, during class and departure
  • We discard all bandages, dressings or other class consumables at the end of the class and they are not re-used

Importantly, those who meet the following criteria should not attend any St John Ambulance Training course:

  • Those who are unwell or experiencing any flu-like symptoms
  • Those who have been diagnosed positive for COVID-19 in the last 14 days
  • People who have been overseas in the 14 days prior to their course date
  • Those who have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 14 days

Those who are diagnosed with a confirmed case of COVID-19 within 14 days after attending their St John training course must advise St John Ambulance Victoria immediately on 1300 360 455

Updated: 4 August 2020

In line with the latest Stage 4 restrictions announced, first aid training courses will only continue for the following:

Note the following safety measures apply for classes:

  • Smaller class sizes capped at 8 students (down from 12 students)
  • PPE including masks and gloves are now available at our classes for students to wear if they choose
  • Temperature screening will take place for all people entering our training venues
  • No contact first aid training: this means students will not be required to practice first aid techniques on other students or staff, only on themselves or a manikin. For example bandaging, CPR, recovery position and use of EpiPens will not be conducted on others. Students will be directed not to breathe into a manikin at this time.
  • Increased cleaning of our equipment after every class
  • Alcohol based hand sanitiser is available throughout the venue for use upon arrival, during class and departure
  • We discard all bandages, dressings or other class consumables at the end of the class and they are not re-used

Importantly, those who meet the following criteria should not attend any St John Ambulance Training course:

  • Those who are unwell or experiencing any flu-like symptoms
  • Those who have been diagnosed positive for COVID-19 in the last 14 days
  • People who have been overseas in the 14 days prior to their course date
  • Those who have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 14 days

Those who are diagnosed with a confirmed case of COVID-19 within 14 days after attending their St John training course must advise St John Ambulance Victoria immediately on 1300 360 455.

Updated: 8th July 2020

Further to the recent government announcement, we confirm that first aid training courses for work reasons will be going ahead as scheduled throughout Victoria, regardless of residential postcode or local council zones.

Note that we have taken further additional measures as of 9th July for continued safety of staff and students:

  • Smaller class sizes capped at 8 students (down from 12 students)
  • PPE including masks and gloves are now available at our classes for students to wear if they choose
  • Temperature screening will take place for all people entering our training venues
  • No contact first aid training: this means students will not be required to practice first aid techniques on other students or staff, only on themselves or a manikin. For example bandaging, CPR, recovery position and use of EpiPens will not be conducted on others. Students will be directed not to breathe into a manikin at this time.
  • Increased cleaning of our equipment after every class
  • Alcohol based hand sanitiser is available throughout the venue for use upon arrival, during class and departure
  • We discard all bandages, dressings or other class consumables at the end of the class and they are not re-used

Importantly, those who meet the following criteria should not attend any St John Ambulance Training course:

  • Those who are unwell or experiencing any flu-like symptoms
  • Those who have been diagnosed positive for COVID-19 in the last 14 days
  • People who have been overseas in the 14 days prior to their course date
  • Those who have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 14 days

Those who are diagnosed with a confirmed case of COVID-19 within 14 days after attending their St John training course must advise St John Ambulance Victoria immediately on 1300 360 455.

Update: 1st June 2020

UPDATE: BEST PRACTICES FOLLOWED DURING FIRST AID TRAINING TO CONTROL NOVEL CORONAVIRUS

We understand many in the community are concerned about the continuing threat of coronavirus (COVID-19). St John is here to serve those in sickness, distress, suffering and danger and your wellbeing remains our top priority. We continue to monitor the evolving situation and are acting in line with the advice of the Victorian Department of Health and Human Services. We will keep you updated with notifications as we receive them.

We have implemented various precautionary measures across our training classes in response to the current situation. Please see below for more information about training with us and the processes we have put in place.

 

STUDENT ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENTS

To limit the spread of the disease, St John Ambulance (Vic) advises the following:

  • People who have been overseas in the 14 days prior to their course date must not attend any St John Ambulance Training course.
  • Those who have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 should also stay at home (self-isolate) and not attend a St John Ambulance Training course for 14 days after last contact with infected individuals.
  • Those who are diagnosed with a confirmed case of COVID-19 within 14 days after attending their St John training course must advise St John Ambulance Victoria immediately on 1300 360 455.

Courses can be rescheduled at no cost if individuals are required to self-quarantine as a result of COVD-19 concerns. Please phone 1300 360 455 to reschedule your course.

 

NO CONTACT FIRST AID TRAINING

As of 1st June 2020 all face to face First Aid Training will be No Contact training in our public classes.

No Contact First Aid training means students undertaking face to face First Aid training in classrooms will practice and demonstrate their learning on themselves, or on a manikin. Students will no longer practice on other students or staff. Examples of practicals that will be affected by this training style include bandaging, CPR, recovery position and use of EpiPens.

 

TRAINING INFECTION CONTROL

Along with making face to face First Aid Training contact free, we have also implemented the following:

  • Promotion of infection control processes in venues
  • Reduced class sizes by 50% allowing for social distancing (maximum 12 students per public class)
  • Temperature screening of all visitors to our venue upon arrival
  • Increased cleaning of our equipment after every class
  • Alcohol based hand sanitiser available throughout the venue, for use upon arrival, during class and departure
  • Appropriate PPE to be worn by staff where appropriate

These extra safety measures, are on top of the existing infection control practices already in place since March:

  • Observe all federal requirements in relation to indoor gatherings
  • Provide hand sanitizer and encourage students and staff to use it frequently
  • Encourage students and staff to wash their hands frequently with soap and water
  • Encourage students and staff to cough or sneeze into the bend of their arm and avoid touching their face
  • Clean all equipment after each class
  • Discard any bandages, dressings or other class consumables at the end of the class

 

Our manikin management:

  • Students will not perform rescue breaths into manikins
  • Where possible, we allow students to use the same manikin throughout the course and we clean surfaces at the changeover where students are required to share equipment
  • We thoroughly clean manikins and other equipment in accordance with the manufacturer’s directions after every class