Health and Safety First Aid Regulations
This is Health and Safety First Aid Regulations: What Every UK Employer Must Know
Understanding your obligations under the health and safety first aid regulations is essential if you’re an employer in the UK. Failing to provide adequate first aid arrangements in the workplace isn’t just a legal risk—it’s a business risk too. At EBS Law, we advise employers, managers, and business owners daily on how to stay compliant while protecting staff and business operations.
What Are the Health and Safety First Aid Regulations?
The Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981 require employers to provide adequate and appropriate first aid equipment, facilities, and trained personnel to ensure employees receive immediate attention if injured or taken ill at work. These regulations apply to all workplaces—no matter the size or sector.
What Does ‘Adequate and Appropriate’ Mean?
This is where many employers get stuck. What counts as “adequate” depends on the nature of your work, the size of your team, and the level of risk involved. For example, a low-risk office might only need a basic first aid kit and one appointed person, while a construction site requires trained first aiders and more advanced equipment.
Do You Need a Trained First Aider?
Not all businesses need a qualified first aider, but many do. The law requires a risk-based approach. For higher-risk environments, having a certified first aider on-site at all times is strongly recommended—and often necessary for compliance.
Low-risk workplaces may only require an ‘appointed person’ who takes charge during emergencies, but this person is not legally required to be formally trained. That said, training is always advisable.
What’s Required in a Workplace First Aid Kit?
There’s no mandatory list, but HSE guidance recommends your kit include items such as:
- Individually wrapped sterile plasters
- Sterile eye pads and bandages
- Disposable gloves and cleansing wipes
Remember, this is the minimum—your kit should reflect the hazards of your specific workplace.
Carrying Out a First Aid Needs Assessment
The first step toward compliance with health and safety first aid regulations is to complete a first aid needs assessment. This helps determine:
- What hazards exist in your workplace
- Who might be at risk
- What equipment, facilities, and training are needed
Document this assessment thoroughly and review it regularly, especially after changes to staffing or workplace conditions.
Remote Workers and First Aid Obligations
If you have employees working remotely or off-site, your responsibilities don’t stop at the office door. You must ensure they still have access to first aid advice and equipment, even if that means providing portable kits or digital access to help.
First Aid Training: How Often and What Type?
It’s essential to choose the right training for your team. There are typically two levels:
- Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW): A one-day course for low-risk workplaces
- First Aid at Work (FAW): A three-day course for higher-risk environments
Refresher training is advised annually, with a full requalification every three years. Always keep certificates up to date and records accessible.
Why Compliance with Health and Safety First Aid Regulations Matters
Besides the obvious moral obligation to protect your employees, compliance also shields your business from legal and financial consequences. Failing to meet the standards set by the health and safety first aid regulations can result in:
- Enforcement notices from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE)
- Potential fines or prosecution
- Increased liability in the event of a workplace accident
Worse still, poor first aid provision can damage staff morale and your company’s reputation.
Free First Aid Guidance for Employers
If you would like free advice, John Bloor and the team are here to help. Call John today on 01625 874400 or email enquiries@ebslaw.co.uk for tailored support.
Include in Your First Aid Policy
Every employer should have a written health and safety policy, and that includes a dedicated first aid section. Your policy should cover:
- Who your first aiders or appointed persons are
- Location of first aid kits and equipment
- Procedures for dealing with accidents or illnesses
This not only demonstrates compliance but ensures clarity across your business when emergencies arise.
First Aid for Non-Employees and the Public
While the regulations are focused on employees, if your business is open to the public—like a shop, restaurant, or event venue—you should also consider how first aid will be provided to visitors. It’s not a legal requirement, but it’s a best practice that reflects well on your business.
How EBS Law Can Help You Stay Compliant
At EBS Law, we work directly with business owners and managers to assess their risks, review current practices, and implement practical, compliant first aid policies. We simplify the legal jargon and provide real-world solutions that protect your people—and your business.
Whether you’re unsure how to conduct a first aid needs assessment, need help sourcing training, or want to review your documentation, we’re here to guide you.
Next Steps for Employers
Health and safety isn’t just box-ticking—it’s about actively safeguarding your team and business. Staying on top of the health and safety first aid regulations is easier when you have the right legal partner by your side.
Contact John Bloor today for expert support at EBS Law. We’re here to ensure your business stays protected every step of the way. Call 01625 874400 or email enquiries@ebslaw.co.uk.
Further Reading from EBS Law
Looking to understand your broader health and safety duties? Check out these helpful guides: