Under the Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981, UK employers are legally required to provide adequate and appropriate first aid equipment, facilities and trained personnel. The level of first aid provision depends on the workplace size, location and identified risks.

What the Law Requires

• Suitable Training: Employers must ensure that nominated first aiders receive accredited training. Common courses include Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) and First Aid at Work (FAW).

• Risk Assessment: Conduct a thorough assessment of workplace hazards to determine the necessary level of first aid coverage, including the number of trained staff.

• Accessible Equipment: First aid kits should be clearly marked and easily accessible, with sufficient supplies based on the number of employees and risk factors.

• Record-Keeping: Maintaining accurate records of all workplace injuries and first aid treatments can help identify recurring risks and streamline health and safety planning.

Why It Matters

Providing comprehensive first aid training not only meets legal obligations but also helps protect employees from serious harm. Rapid, effective treatment can reduce the severity of injuries, improve recovery times and prevent minor incidents from escalating.