In the UK, the legal framework governing First Aid at Work is set out by the:Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981. These regulations require employers to provide adequate and appropriate first aid provisions—including trained first aiders—based on their workplace risk assessment.
In the event of injury or sudden illness, failure to provide first aid could result in a casualty's death. The employer should ensure that an employee who is injured or taken ill at work receives immediate attention.
The First Aid at Work (FAW) course is an in-depth, three-day training program designed to provide participants with comprehensive skills and knowledge to handle a wide range of first aid situations in the workplace. It covers emergency response techniques such as CPR, using an AED, and managing unconscious casualties, as well as dealing with fractures, burns, poisoning, and other specific medical conditions. The course includes both theoretical and practical sessions, ensuring participants are well-prepared to act in emergencies. Upon successful completion, participants receive a certificate valid for three years, complying with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) requirements for higher-risk workplaces, thus enhancing workplace safety and preparedness.
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.
