Employee First Aid Training: Where to Start – A Guide for HR and Safety Managers
Why First Aid Training is Essential for Employees
Emergencies can happen at any time, and a workplace that lacks first aid-trained employees is unprepared for critical situations. Whether it’s a cardiac arrest in an office in London, a serious fall in a warehouse in Manchester, or a burn incident in a restaurant in Birmingham, proper first aid training can save lives, reduce recovery time, and minimise workplace disruption.
A First Aid at Work Course provides employees with the knowledge and confidence to handle medical emergencies before professional help arrives. For HR professionals and safety managers, knowing where to start when implementing first aid training is key to building a safer, legally compliant workplace.
Legal Requirements for First Aid Training in the Workplace
Under the Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981, employers in Leeds, Bristol, and Brighton must ensure that their workforce has adequate first aid provisions, which include:
✅ Appointing trained first aiders through a First Aid at Work Course.
✅ Stocking and maintaining first aid supplies.
✅ Providing employees with access to emergency procedures.
Failing to meet these legal requirements can lead to HSE fines, increased liability, and reputational damage.
Step 1: Conduct a Workplace First Aid Needs Assessment
Before enrolling employees in a First Aid at Work Course, businesses must determine:
- The number of employees who require training.
- The level of risk in the workplace (e.g., low-risk offices vs. high-risk factories).
- The accessibility of emergency services in the area.
For example, a large construction site in Hassocks will require more first aiders compared to a small corporate office in London.
Step 2: Choose the Right First Aid Training Course
HR teams should select the appropriate training course based on workplace needs.
Types of First Aid Training Courses
- First Aid at Work Course – A comprehensive, Ofqual-regulated course for workplaces with higher risks, covering:
- CPR and AED use.
- Treating severe wounds, burns, and fractures.
- Managing seizures, strokes, and heart attacks.
- Emergency First Aid at Work Course – A shorter course for low-risk workplaces, focusing on basic life-saving skills.
- Paediatric First Aid Course – Essential for employees working in schools, nurseries, and childcare settings.
Employers in Manchester, Bristol, and Brighton must ensure that their employees receive the right training for their specific work environment.
Step 3: Determine Who Needs First Aid Training
The number of employees needing first aid training depends on workplace size and industry risk level.
Recommended First Aid Training Guidelines
| Workplace Type | Number of Employees | Required First Aid Training |
|---|---|---|
| Low-risk office (e.g., marketing firms, retail shops) | 1-50 | At least 1 trained first aider |
| Medium-risk workplace (e.g., schools, warehouses) | 25-50 | 1 first aider per 25 employees |
| High-risk workplace (e.g., construction, manufacturing) | 5-50 | 1 first aider per 10 employees |
Companies in Leeds, Hassocks, and London must follow these recommendations to ensure compliance and employee safety.
Step 4: Schedule Training and Ensure Compliance
Key Considerations When Scheduling Training
✅ Ensure all shifts have trained first aiders (including night and weekend shifts).
✅ Book first aid training as part of new employee onboarding.
✅ Schedule refresher courses every three years to maintain compliance.
Businesses in Birmingham, Manchester, and Bristol must ensure training is updated regularly to stay compliant with HSE regulations.
Step 5: Communicate First Aid Procedures to Employees
Even after employees complete their First Aid at Work Course, HR must:
✅ Display first aid notices around the workplace.
✅ Inform employees of who the designated first aiders are.
✅ Ensure employees understand where first aid kits are located.
Benefits of First Aid Training for Employees
1. Faster Emergency Response Times
Employees trained in first aid can act immediately, preventing minor injuries from worsening and increasing survival chances in critical situations.
2. Improved Workplace Safety Culture
A well-trained workforce in Brighton, Leeds, and London is more aware of potential hazards, reducing workplace accidents.
3. Compliance with UK Regulations
Enrolling employees in a First Aid at Work Course helps businesses avoid legal penalties and remain fully compliant.
Next Steps for Employers
To ensure first aid compliance, HR teams should:
✅ Book a consultation to assess workplace first aid needs.
✅ Get a free risk assessment to ensure compliance.
✅ Claim free staff training to improve workplace safety.