THE IMPORTANCE OF HAVING FIRST AIDERS IN THE WORKPLACE

Firstly, having First Aiders within the workplace is a legal requirement and there are many benefits of having multiple people First Aid trained within the workplace. The Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations (1981) states that a workplace must have in place adequate First Aiders as well as having the appropriate First Aid equipment so that if a member of staff becomes ill or has an injury in the workplace there are people First Aid trained and ready to assist in emergency situations. 

The First Aider is at the scene during the first few crucial minutes of an injury or illness within the workplace, therefore they can prevent minor injuries from becoming a major injury and prevent a situation from getting worse. It is important to practice safety at all times to prevent emergencies and accidents in the workplace, for example having a First Aider means First Aid kits are used properly and there is an appointed person to ensure that they are kept stocked up. Having people who are First Aid trained within the workplace encourages healthy and safe living, as well as reducing the number of accidents in the workplace. And it is a life-saving skill!

WHAT IS THE MINIMUM FIRST AID PROVISION IN ANY WORKPLACE?

The provision for First Aid needs should be available at all times within the workplace. HSE outline the minimum first aid provision for any workplace, which consists of the following:

1. A suitably stocked First Aid kit

2. An appointed person to take the lead in first-aid arrangements

3. And information for employees about first-aid arrangements

FIRST AID NEEDS ASSESSMENT

Each workplace is different and therefore each workplace will have different First Aid needs to be met. Employers are required to carry out the First Aid needs assessment which considers all workplace hazards and risks, the size of the workplace, and other relevant factors involving the First Aid needs, which helps in determining what First Aid equipment and supplies they need to meet their First Aid needs. 

If you need some support in what to do for your workplace First Aid Needs Assessment then head over to the HSE who provide in-depth information on what you should consider when completing a First Aid Needs Assessment- click here to go to the HSE. 

DO YOU NEED FIRST AID TRAINING?

If you would like or require First Aid training but are unsure of what course is best for you then please get in touch with us or start a live chat with us today. Additionally, our other blog post which explains the differences between the First Aid courses may be useful- click here to go to the blog post on the differences between the courses.