What is a First Aider?
In the workplace, it cannot be overstated how valuable it is to have trained first-aiders. With 561,00 non-fatal injuries at work occurring in 2022/23, having the ability to provide a rapid response can mean the difference between life and death, or quick recovery and long-term disability.
But what exactly is a first aider and what do they do? In this blog, we will dive into the role, their responsibilities and why you need one.
What is a first aider?
A first aider has been trained to provide effective and prompt basic first aid assistance to someone who has suffered an accident or emergency.
With this training, individuals have the confidence and knowledge to assist in various situations. This includes helping someone who is choking, fainting, having an allergic reaction, experiencing a seizure, and more.
They can also support and keep someone stable until a more experienced first aider arrives, or emergency services are available.
Does your workplace need a first aider?
Having a first aider in your workplace is, not only, a way to meet your moral and legal obligations but also provides a first line of response.
A recent study has shown that ‘lives are at risk due to lack of first aiders’ with less than half of people surveyed believing there was no designated first aider in their workplace. With 147 deaths occurring each year at work, many of these tragedies could have been prevented if there had been a first aider on site.
These findings highlight the importance of having a designated first aider in the workplace and ensuring information is effectively communicated to all staff.
How many first aiders do you need?
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) does not specify the exact number of first aiders required, but it is recommended that companies perform a first aid needs assessment.
In low-hazard workplaces, with fewer than 25 employees, one first aider may be sufficient. However, high-risk environments may require multiple first aiders with higher qualifications.
What are the responsibilities of first aiders?
- Be able to assess an emergency safely
- Protect the casualty and others from any danger
- Administer first aid treatment
- Arrange further assistance if necessary
- Record and report accidents
How to become a First Aider
To become your workplace’s first aider, you must have the right skills to administer first aid duties by attending an accredited course.
That’s where we can help.
Our 1-day accredited Emergency First Aid at Work course is perfect for low-risk working environments. It provides trainees with practical and hands-on experience in delivering first aid in real-life situations.
Our 3-day accredited First Aid at Work course is better suited to higher-risk working environments. This course builds on the skills learned in the Emergency First Aid at Work course to include how to assist with more serious accidents.
By attending any of our courses, participants will be given a certification that remains valid for 3 years.
Ready to book your course?
Can’t attend our open courses?
No problem, contact us here to see if we can deliver training at your site.
