First Aid at Work: Ensuring Safety and Compliance in the UK

In the United Kingdom, ensuring a safe and healthy work environment is important. One vital aspect of workplace safety is the provision of first aid. Accidents and emergencies can happen anytime, anywhere, and being prepared to respond effectively can make a significant difference in preventing further harm and saving lives.

FRS will guide you through the essential aspects of first aid at work.

The Legal Framework: Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981

The Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981 serve as the primary legislation for first aid provision in the UK. The regulations apply to all workplaces, regardless of their size or sector, and outline the legal requirements for first aid arrangements.

Employer Key Responsibilities

Under the Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981, employers have a legal duty to provide adequate first aid facilities, equipment, and personnel within their workplaces. 

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct a First Aid Needs Assessment: Employers must assess the first aid needs specific to their workplace. The assessment considers factors such as the nature of the work, the number of employees, and potential risks or hazards present.
• Appoint a Competent First Aid Provider: Based on the first aid needs assessment, employers must appoint one or more competent individuals to take charge of first aid arrangements. These individuals are commonly known as first aiders.
• Provide Sufficient First Aid Equipment and Facilities: Employers must ensure that adequate first aid equipment, such as first aid kits, is readily available and properly maintained. Additionally, there should be suitable facilities for first aid treatment, including a designated first aid room if required.
• Provide Training: Employers must provide appropriate first aid training to the appointed first aiders. Training should cover essential skills and knowledge to respond to common workplace incidents and emergencies effectively.
• Inform Employees: Employers must inform employees about the first aid arrangements in place, including the location of first aid equipment, facilities, and the identity of appointed first aiders.

First Aid at Work Courses

To comply with UK legislation, first aiders must complete an approved First Aid at Work (FAW) course. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) approves organisations to deliver these courses, which typically include:

• First Aid at Work (FAW): This three-day course provides comprehensive training on how to respond to a wide range of workplace emergencies. It covers topics such as resuscitation, treatment of major and minor injuries, and managing medical conditions.
• Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW): This one-day course is suitable for low-risk workplaces with fewer employees. It covers basic first aid skills, including CPR, dealing with wounds, and recognising and managing common workplace illnesses.
• First Aid at Work Requalification: FAW certificates are valid for three years. To maintain their qualification, first aiders must attend a two-day requalification course before their certificate expires.

Conclusion

First aid at work is a critical aspect of workplace safety in the United Kingdom. By complying with the Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981, employers demonstrate their commitment to providing a safe environment for their employees. 

Remember, accidents can happen at any time, and having well-trained first aiders equipped with the necessary skills and resources can make all the difference in ensuring a swift and effective response. 

By taking first aid seriously, employers play a crucial role in protecting their workforce and promoting a culture of safety in the workplace.

Contact FRS Health & Safety

We recommend following applicable government bodies in the news, their websites and on social media. Subscribing to podcasts and keeping an eye on blogs is also a great way to stay up to date. 

At FRS we offer a wide range of training courses for a multitude of health and safety needs, from first-aid training to fire safety in the workplace. We also offer mental health first aid training courses for individuals and businesses. You can browse our website or get in touch for more information.