As an employer it is your duty to assess the first aid needs of your organisation. Even if there doesn't seem to be a large amount of consideration to be taken you have to at least appoint one person to take care of the role of providing first aid arrangements. This person becomes the 'appointed person' and will need to receive first aid training in order to fulfil their duties.
You can become the appointed person yourself or you can give the role to another member of staff. The appointed person will need to look after the facilities in your premises, such as the first aid kit and any paper work. First aid kits have to contain the minimum suggested items. These include:
- 20 sterile plasters of assorted sizes
- eye pads that are sterile
- 6 safety pins
- 2 large sterile wound dressings
- disposable gloves
- medium sized sterile dressings
- first aid guidance leaflet such as the one provided by the Health and Safety Executive
The Appointed Person's Role
They will be responsible for providing limited care to anyone that is injured or who falls ill. The role also includes making sure they contact the right help if necessary, such as calling the emergency services. The appointed person may also have to provide cover if they are away and that can require an additional person or persons having the right training. Training takes a small amount of time, and the cost of the first aid courses is very affordable. The courses are widely available, but you need to make sure that the content of the course is based upon the requirements that are decided by the Health and Safety Executive.
Book a First Aid Course
If you or one of your employees requires training you can book a place on a first aid course. The courses cover everything required by the HSE and a certificate is provided to prove that the person has received the training.