Why You Need This Checklist

Law 5239/2025 is now in effect and inspections have begun. This free compliance checklist guides you step-by-step to full compliance for your business, avoiding fines from €500 to €50,000. Follow each step carefully to be fully compliant.

Law 5239/2025 Compliance Checklist

Step 1: Count Your Employees

Calculate your average headcount over the last 12 months. If the number is 50 or more, training is mandatory. Note the exact number so you can calculate how many need to be trained.

Common mistake: Many companies count only full-time staff. The law refers to the total workforce, including part-time, seasonal, and contract workers. Make sure you have counted everyone.

Documents you'll need: Staff register for the last 12 months, employment contracts, time-sheet evidence.

Step 2: Calculate How Many Need to Be Trained (50%)

The law requires at least 50% of total staff to hold first aid certification. For example:

50 employees → 25 to be trained
100 employees → 50 to be trained
200 employees → 100 to be trained

Tip: It's recommended to train 60-70% instead of the minimum 50%, to cover absences, leave, and turnover. A trained employee who leaves creates a gap that must be filled.

Cost estimate: €80-120 per person for ERC certification. For 50 people, budget €4,000-€6,000. PulseGuard offers group discounts.

Step 3: Check Existing Certificates

Many employees may already hold certification from a previous job or personal training. Gather all existing certificates and verify:

Are they from a recognized body (ERC, Red Cross, etc.)?
Are they still valid (the 3 years haven't expired)?
Do they cover CPR, AED, and choking?

Common mistake: First aid certificates from the military or from university courses are not always recognized. Make sure the certificate is from a recognized provider.

Step 4: Choose a Certified Training Provider (ERC)

Choosing a provider is critical. Prioritize:

ERC-certified instructors with a medical background.
Experience in corporate programs.
On-site training at your premises.
Full equipment (manikins, AED trainers, tourniquets).

Caution: Avoid trainers offering "certification in 2 hours" or who don't have a medical background. The quality of training determines whether your staff will be able to respond in a real incident.

Step 5: Schedule the Training

Book a date at least 2 weeks in advance. Consider:

Shift schedules (for 24/7 operations).
Available space for training (20-30 sqm).
Number of sessions (if multiple are needed).

Deadline: For businesses with 100+ employees, the deadline is March 31, 2026. For businesses with 50-99, the deadline is June 30, 2026.

Step 6: Install an AED

If you don't already have an AED, procure and install a defibrillator in an accessible location. Remember:

1 AED per 50 people or per 2,500 sqm.
Access < 3 minutes from any point.
International signage (green cross).
Maintenance program.

Cost: A quality AED costs €1,200-€2,500. PulseGuard offers supply + installation + maintenance packages.

Step 7: Train the Staff

Training lasts 4-6 hours and includes:

CPR and AED use.
Choking management.
Bleeding control (optional).

All participants must be assessed practically. Don't accept theoretical training without hands-on practice on manikins and AED simulators.

Step 8: Receive ERC Certificates

After training, you receive digital certificates with:

Certificate number and QR code.
Issue date and expiration date.
Certification level.

Keep records for every inspection. Build an electronic archive with all certificates and expiration dates.

Step 9: Plan Renewal (Every 3 Years)

Certificates are valid for 3 years. Schedule refresher training at least 3 months before expiration. PulseGuard sends reminders automatically.

Tip: Schedule refresher training during a low-activity period to avoid disrupting business operations.

Timeline and Deadlines

Law 5239/2025 has a specific implementation timeline. Meeting the deadlines is critical to avoiding fines:

January 1, 2026: Law enters into force.
March 31, 2026: Deadline for businesses with 100+ employees.
June 30, 2026: Deadline for businesses with 50-99 employees.
Every 3 years: Certification renewal.

Documents You Must Keep

Maintaining an organized archive is essential for every inspection. Keep the following documents in electronic form: a register of trained staff with certification dates, copies of all certificates, AED installation records, AED maintenance contract, the refresher schedule and proof of completion. PulseGuard provides every client with a complete digital compliance archive.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake 1: Choosing a cheap provider with no recognition. The certificates may not be accepted during inspection.
Mistake 2: Training only the minimum 50%. If a trained employee leaves, you drop below the threshold.
Mistake 3: Lack of AED maintenance. A defibrillator without a battery is useless.
Mistake 4: Losing certificates. Without evidence, you cannot prove compliance.

Need Help?

PulseGuard offers a free compliance assessment for every business. Our specialists will review your current status, identify any gaps, and present you with a tailored action plan with timeline and cost. Don't leave your business exposed to fines and legal risk.

Contact us so we can help you complete this checklist without stress. Request a free assessment or call us to discuss your needs.

Law 5239/2025 Compliance Checklist | PulseGuard

Why You Need This Checklist