Why does my business need a first aider?

The Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981 requires all 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.

Accidents can happen at any time within the workplace and first aid can save lives and prevent minor injuries from becoming major ones.

Employers must make appropriate first aid arrangements for the workplace. When completing a needs assessment, the health and safety risks of the workplace will determine what arrangements are required.

Having trained first aider(s) can benefit a business of any size and provide peace of mind in the workplace.

Some small workplaces that are classed as low-risk may only need a first aid box and a person appointed to take charge of stocking the first aid box, looking after any other equipment and calling the emergency services when required. 

Workplaces with more significant health and safety risks are more likely to need a trained first-aider on the premises at all times.

A first aider is someone who has been trained by a competent first aid training provider in First Aid at Work, Emergency First Aid at Work, or any other appropriate level of training that qualifies them to give first aid treatment in the event of an injury or illness.

Becoming a First-Aider

First aiders must be qualified and hold and current certificate in First Aid at Work or Emergency First Aid at Work.

Becoming a first aider could make a life-saving difference. 

Risks of not having a First-Aider

 If your first aid needs assessment determines that first aiders are required on-site, you must ensure the necessary measures are in place to ensure the health and safety of your employees. If, in the event of injury or illness there is no first-aider on site, you are liable and could be prosecuted. It is also important for first aiders to be adequately trained.

Having first aiders on-site who are able to respond immediately when an incident occurs reduces the risk for employees.

More Information

If you would like more first aid tips or information about training, check out our Twitter page @imptraining and a member of the team will happily assist you.