Due to changes in health & safety (first aid) 1981, employers MUST provide adequate first aid provisions, this also includes workplaces with 5 or less employees. First Aid at Work training enables a first-aider to give emergency first aid to someone who is injured or becomes ill while at work, giving peace of mind for fellow employees as well as insurance benefits for an employer. First Aid at Work training includes Emergency First Aid at Work and also equips the first-aider to apply practiced knowledge to a range of specific injuries and illnesses.
First Aid at Work training involves theory and practical instruction on a range of medical issues, as well as teaching CPR (cardio pulmonary resuscitation), dealing with unconsciousness casualties and controlling cuts & bleeds. Training organizations offering these courses need to be approved by HSE (health & safety executive) for this purpose. First Aid at Work courses are certificated and registered with the HSE, and enables a qualification that lasts 3 years.
The HSE strongly recommends that first-aiders undertake annual refresher training during any three-year First Aid at Work/Emergency First Aid at Work certification period.
The Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981 require employers to provide adequate and appropriate equipment, facilities and personnel to ensure their employees receive immediate attention if they are injured or taken ill at work. These Regulations apply to all workplaces including those with less than five employees and to the self-employed. Detailed information can be found in First aid at work. The Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981 Approved Code of Practice and guidance.
What is 'adequate and appropriate' will depend on the circumstances in the workplace. This includes the size of the workplace, number of personnel, nature of work being carried out, what should be included in a first-aid box and if a first-aid room is required. Employers should by law carry out an assessment of first-aid needs to determine what to provide.
