Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) Training | HSE-Compliant One-Day Workplace First Aid Course

In the UK, workplace first aid provision is governed by the Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981. These regulations require employers to ensure adequate and appropriate first aid arrangements are in place, based on the findings of a suitable and sufficient risk assessment. This includes providing trained first aiders, suitable equipment, and clear procedures for responding to incidents.

If an employee suffers an injury or sudden illness at work, immediate and effective first aid can be critical in preventing deterioration or loss of life. Employers have a legal duty to ensure that prompt assistance is available and that casualties receive appropriate care without delay.

The Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) course is a one-day, HSE-compliant programme designed for low-risk workplaces or as part of a broader first aid provision. It equips delegates with the essential knowledge and practical skills to respond to common workplace emergencies. Training includes primary survey and incident management, CPR and AED use, recovery position, choking, bleeding control, shock, minor injuries, and basic treatment of burns.

Delivered through a combination of theoretical instruction and hands-on practical assessment, the course ensures learners can act confidently and competently in an emergency. Successful candidates receive a certificate valid for three years, enabling employers to meet their statutory first aid obligations while improving overall workplace safety and resilience.

As an employer in the UK, assessing your first aid at work needs is a legal requirement under the Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you carry out a First Aid Needs Assessment:

1. Evaluate Workplace Hazards and Risks

• Consider the nature of your work. Are there high-risk activities like working with machinery, hazardous substances, or at height?
• Identify potential injuries or illnesses that could occur in your workplace.

Example: A construction site would likely need more comprehensive first aid provisions than a small office.

2. Consider Your Workforce

• How many employees do you have?
• Do you have any lone workers, shift workers, or employees with specific health conditions or disabilities?

If you have young or inexperienced workers, you may need more robust first aid measures.

3. Workplace Environment

• How spread out is your workplace (multiple floors, sites, remote areas)?
• Are emergency services easily accessible?

Remote or isolated locations may require extra first aid cover or training.

4. Review Previous Incidents

• Look at your accident records.
• What types of injuries have happened before? How were they handled?

This helps you predict and plan for future incidents.

5. First Aid Equipment and Facilities

• Do you have suitable and well-stocked first aid kits?
• Is there a dedicated first aid room, especially in high-risk workplaces?

Also consider if you need equipment like defibrillators (AEDs).

6. Decide on First Aiders

• Do you need Appointed Persons, Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) trained staff, or First Aid at Work (FAW) certified first aiders?
• Think about how many first aiders are needed per shift or per site.

Consider coverage for absences, holidays, or shift work.

7. Document Your Assessment

• While there’s no legal requirement to write it down, doing so helps demonstrate compliance—especially in the event of an incident.

8. Review and Update

Regularly review and update your first aid needs assessment, especially after changes in staff, procedures, or workplace layout.

What Should Be in a Workplace First Aid Kit?

Your first aid kit should be stocked based on the findings of your first aid needs assessment. As a general guide, in low-risk environments—such as office or desk-based roles—a basic first aid kit might include the following essentials:

• A leaflet with general guidance on first aid
• Sterile plasters and dressings
• Bandages and eye pads
• Disposable gloves
• Antiseptic wipes
• Scissors and tape
• First aid guidance leaflet

Kits should be checked regularly and restocked as needed. Larger or high-risk workplaces may require multiple kits or additional equipment like burn dressings or defibrillators.