Sometimes it’s the less commonly used arrangements we overlook at Work. When it comes to first aid at work we are often asked what people should have - because they’ve (luckily!) never had the need for anything. So here it is, what you need to do and have as a business under the First Aid at Work Regulations...
As a business owner you should make sure that your employees can receive immediate attention if they are injured or taken ill at work. If your premises is frequently visited by members of the public or customers, its recommended that they also benefit from this arrangement.
Psst. The five or more rule does not apply to first aid – expectations are for you to make arrangements even where there are less (even if self-employed).
The easiest thing to do is complete a ‘First Aid Needs Assessment’. This will enable you to consider what arrangements are in place, what you need, and whether you should make special arrangements for any particular hazards or business niches.
If you are a small, low risk business such as an office, it should be enough to have a first aid kit and an ‘appointed person’. This person will be in charge of maintaining your first aid kit and ensuring that basic first aid treatment is provided or the emergency services are called (where needed). Your appointed person does not need specific training. If your work is a tad more hazardous e.g. using tooling or chemicals, then you should consider having somebody trained. This will ensure that the business is equipped to deal with whatever injury is presented or at least give individuals the confidence to handle them.
Last but not least, communicate, make sure your employees understand the arrangements made - theres no point having them if no one knows about them.
If you are still unsure of the requirements and need a helping hand completing your assessment, feel free to call or email a member of the HSW family.
