First Aid at Work

Preparation and Proficiency in Workplace First Aid

What is a First Aid at Work Course?

The First Aid at Work course is an in-depth, three-day program specifically tailored to enhance participants' capabilities in addressing and managing medical emergencies within workplace environments. This extensive training equips learners with essential skills to competently handle a wide array of workplace incidents—from minor injuries to life-threatening situations. Key areas of focus include the administration of CPR, the strategic use of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs), and the application of critical emergency protocols for managing severe bleeding, burns, shock, and spinal injuries. The curriculum is designed to provide both practical hands-on experience and theoretical knowledge, ensuring participants are fully prepared to act as effective first aiders in their respective workplaces, promoting safety and readiness throughout their organisations.

Course Content

Entry Requirements

Assessment & Certification

How is the First Aid at Work course assessed?

The assessment process for the First Aid at Work course is designed to ensure that participants can apply their knowledge and skills effectively in real-world situations. Here’s what the assessment involves:

Practical Skills Evaluation: Participants must successfully demonstrate their ability to handle a variety of emergency scenarios, such as performing CPR on a manikin, using an AED, and managing cases of severe bleeding and shock. These practical evaluations are observed and critiqued by certified instructors to ensure techniques are performed accurately and confidently.
Written Examination: A comprehensive multiple-choice test assesses understanding of key concepts, procedures, and regulatory compliance related to workplace first aid. This exam ensures that all participants have grasped the theoretical aspects of the course content thoroughly.
Continuous Observation: Throughout the course, instructors continuously assess participants' approach to various first aid techniques during role-play exercises and practical drills. This ongoing observation helps in providing immediate feedback and guidance, enhancing the learning experience and ensuring mastery of essential first aid skills.

These multifaceted assessment methods are crafted to confirm that all participants leave the course not only with knowledge but with the confidence to act decisively and effectively in emergency situations at work. Upon successful completion of these assessments, participants receive a certification that validates their competence as workplace first aiders for three years.

Certification

Participants receive a certificate valid for three years, acknowledging their capability to function as qualified first aiders at work. To retain certification, individuals are advised to undergo periodic refresher courses. This certification affirms your ability to handle first aid at work, making it an essential qualification for safety-conscious workplaces.

Progression

FAQs

Available training dates

Search below to browse through thousands of course dates across the UK.

Find a training date

FAQs

What is the legal requirement for First Aid at Work?

The legal requirements for first aid at work vary by country and sometimes even within regions of a country. However, general principles tend to be consistent across many jurisdictions. Here’s a broad overview of these requirements:

Employer Responsibility: Employers are typically required to ensure that there are adequate and appropriate equipment, facilities, and personnel to ensure employees receive immediate attention if they are injured or taken ill at work.
Risk Assessment: Employers must conduct a risk assessment to determine the first aid needs of their workplace. Factors to consider include the size of the workforce, the nature of the work, the workplace layout, and the proximity to emergency services. This assessment helps determine the number of first aiders needed, the type of training they require, and the first aid equipment necessary.
Appointed Persons and First Aiders: Depending on the outcome of the risk assessment, employers might need to appoint one or more trained first aiders. In smaller or lower-risk environments, an appointed person to manage first aid arrangements may be sufficient.
Training and Certification: First aiders must undergo a training course from a recognised organisation and obtain certification. This training should be regularly updated with refresher courses.
Accessibility and Information: First aid equipment, facilities, and personnel should be readily available during all working hours, and employees should be informed about the first aid arrangements.
Record Keeping: It's important for employers to record any incidents requiring first aid treatment to help in future risk assessments and potential legal requirements.

In the UK, for example, the Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981 and the Approved Code of Practice (ACOP) provide detailed guidance to employers about their obligations regarding first aid at work. Employers must ensure they are compliant with these regulations to avoid legal consequences and to ensure the health and safety of their employees.

How many employees before you need a First Aider?

The requirement for how many first aiders are needed in a workplace depends on several factors including the size of the workforce, the nature of the work, and the specific risks associated with the work environment. Here are some general guidelines based on the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) for the UK, which can serve as a reference point. However, specific requirements can vary by country and region, so it's important to consult local regulations.

Low-risk environments (e.g., offices, shops):

Fewer than 25 employees: At least one appointed person.
25-50 employees: At least one first aider trained in Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW).
More than 50 employees: At least one first aider trained in First Aid at Work (FAW) for every 100 employees.

Medium-risk environments (e.g., light engineering and assembly work, food processing, warehousing):

Fewer than 20 employees: At least one appointed person.
20-100 employees: At least one first aider trained in EFAW or FAW depending on the results of the risk assessment.
More than 100 employees: One additional first aider trained in FAW for every additional 100 employees.

High-risk environments (e.g., construction, chemical manufacturing, use of machinery):

Fewer than 5 employees: At least one appointed person.
5-50 employees: At least one first aider trained in FAW.
More than 50 employees: One additional first aider trained in FAW for every 50 employees.

Appointed person:

An appointed person is someone who takes charge of first-aid arrangements, including looking after equipment and facilities and calling the emergency services when required. An appointed person does not need to be trained to administer first aid, but training is highly recommended.

It’s critical for each employer to assess their specific workplace needs based on the factors mentioned and adjust their first aid provision accordingly. Always ensure compliance with local health and safety regulations to maintain a safe work environment.