Posted by: CTC Training
Safety should always be a top priority. And one crucial aspect of workplace safety is having an adequate number of trained first aiders on hand.
But how many first aiders does your workplace actually need? In this article, we uncover the factors that determine the right number of first aiders for your organisation.
Minimum Requirements for Workplace First Aiders
The Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981 require all employers to provide adequate and appropriate first-aid equipment, facilities and personnel to ensure their employees receive immediate attention if they are injured or taken ill at work. But what does “adequate and appropriate” mean in practice?
As a general rule, the minimum requirements are:
- A designated person to take charge of first-aid arrangements
- A suitably stocked first-aid kit
- Information for all employees about first-aid arrangements
For low-risk workplaces like small offices, shops or libraries with fewer than 25 employees, having one appointed person to take charge of first-aid arrangements might be sufficient. However, for larger workplaces or those with higher risks, you’ll need more trained first aiders.
Factors Impacting the Number of First Aiders Required
The number of first aiders your workplace needs isn’t a one-size-fits-all situation. Several factors come into play:
1. Workplace Hazards
The nature of work activities and potential risks play a significant role. A construction site will need more first aiders than an office environment.
2. Number of Employees
Generally, the more employees you have, the more first aiders you’ll need. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) provides some guidelines:
- Low-risk workplaces (e.g. offices, shops):
- Less 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
- Higher-risk workplaces (e.g. light engineering, warehousing):
- Less than 5 employees: At least one appointed person
- 5-50 employees: At least one first-aider trained in EFAW or FAW
- More than 50 employees: At least one first-aider trained in FAW for every 50 employees
4. Work Patterns
If you have shift workers or employees working outside normal hours, you’ll need to ensure first-aid cover during all working hours.
5. Workplace Layout
The size and layout of your workplace can affect how quickly a first aider can reach an injured person. Multiple buildings or floors might require additional first aiders.
6. History of Accidents
Past incidents can indicate areas of higher risk that may require more first-aid coverage.
How to Become First Aid Qualified
Becoming a qualified first aider is an excellent way to contribute to workplace safety. The process typically involves completing a training course approved by the HSE. There are two main levels of workplace first-aid qualifications:
Level 3 Award in Emergency First Aid at Work
This is a one-day course that covers essential first-aid skills.
Level 3 Award in First Aid at Work
This is a more comprehensive three-day course that covers a wider range of first-aid scenarios.
Both courses involve a mix of theory and practical sessions.
What Courses Are Required to Become First-Aid Qualified?
To become first-aid qualified, you’ll need to complete one of the following courses:
Level 3 Award in Emergency First Aid at Work
This course covers:
- Role of the first aider
- Managing an emergency
- Communication and casualty care
- Dealing with an unresponsive casualty
- CPR and AED use
- Choking
- Wounds and bleeding
- Minor injuries
Level 3 Award in First Aid at Work
This course covers everything in EFAW, plus:
- Fractures
- Sprains and strains
- Head injuries
- Chest injuries
- Burns and scalds
- Eye injuries
- Sudden poisoning
- Anaphylaxis
- Major illnesses
Both qualifications are valid for three years, after which a requalification course is required to maintain the certification.
Does the Environment Impact How Many First Aiders are Required?
Absolutely! The working environment plays a crucial role in determining the number of first aiders needed. High-risk environments such as construction sites, factories or workplaces dealing with hazardous materials will require more first aiders than low-risk environments like offices.
Prioritising Safety in Your Workplace
Determining the right number of first aiders for your workplace involves careful consideration of various factors. While the HSE provides guidelines, it’s crucial to conduct a thorough first-aid needs assessment for your specific workplace.
Remember, having trained first aiders is not just about meeting legal requirements — it’s about creating a safer work environment for everyone. By ensuring you have the right number of qualified first aiders, you’re taking a significant step towards protecting your most valuable asset: your employees.
Are you looking to enhance your workplace safety with first aid training? CTC Training offers comprehensive first-aid courses tailored to your needs.
Get in touch today to find out how we can help you create a safer workplace!
About CTC Training
CTC Training provides professional development and education courses for businesses and individual learners. They are market leaders in online learning. CTC Training's wide range of courses offer valuable qualifications in areas such as education, assessment and vocational training.
