One of the most common questions we get asked is, “Do I legally need a first aider in my workplace?”
The short answer is yes. Every employer has a legal responsibility to make sure there are appropriate first aid arrangements in place. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean every workplace needs the same level of training or the same number of first aiders.
The type of business you run, the number of employees you have and the risks involved all play a part in deciding what first aid provision is suitable.
What Does the Law Say?
The Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981 require employers to provide adequate and appropriate first aid equipment, facilities and trained personnel where needed.
Rather than giving every business a set number of first aiders, the law expects employers to carry out a first aid needs assessment. This helps you decide what level of first aid cover your workplace requires.
What Is a First Aid Needs Assessment?
A first aid needs assessment is simply a way of looking at the risks within your business and deciding what first aid arrangements are appropriate.
Things to think about include:
- How many people do you employ?
- Is your workplace low risk or high risk?
- Do you have staff working alone or on shifts?
- Do you have members of the public visiting your premises?
- Have you had accidents or incidents in the past?
- Are there any employees with medical conditions that may require additional consideration?
For example, an office with ten staff will usually have different first aid requirements from a busy warehouse, construction site or nursery.
Which First Aid Course Is Right?
Once you’ve completed your needs assessment, choosing the right course becomes much easier.
For many offices and lower-risk workplaces, an Emergency First Aid at Work course is suitable.
Higher-risk workplaces will often require First Aid at Work training, while childcare settings usually need Paediatric First Aid. Healthcare professionals may also require Basic Life Support (BLS) training.
If you’re unsure which course is right, it’s always worth asking. We’d much rather help you choose the correct course than have you spend money on training you don’t actually need.
Is First Aid Training Just About Meeting the Law?
Not at all.
Having trained first aiders in your workplace can make a huge difference if someone becomes ill or injured. It gives staff the confidence to act quickly while waiting for the emergency services and can help reduce the seriousness of an injury.
It also shows your employees that their wellbeing is important, helping to create a safer and more positive working environment.
Don’t Forget About Renewals
Most workplace first aid certificates are valid for three years, but that doesn’t mean people remember everything for three years.
We always recommend regular refresher training where possible. It helps keep skills fresh, builds confidence and ensures staff stay up to date with the latest first aid guidance.
Need Some Advice?
Every workplace is different, so there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to first aid training.
At First Stop Safety Training, we work with businesses of all sizes to help them choose the most appropriate training for their staff. Whether you need Emergency First Aid at Work, First Aid at Work, Paediatric First Aid or Basic Life Support, we’re always happy to point you in the right direction.
If you’re not sure what your workplace needs, get in touch with us. We’ll happily talk you through your options and help you make sure your business has the right first aid provision in place.
