Health and Safety First Aid at Work Regulations require that first aid arrangements must be made for all staff. The level of cover needed should be risk assessment based and will depend on the numbers in the workplace and the risks created by work activities, the hours of work and so on. A first aider is someone who has undergone a training course approved by HSE.

Where a risk assessment identifies that a first aider is not necessary, the minimum requirement is to have an appointed person who can take charge when someone is injured or falls ill, including calling an ambulance if required. Appointed persons should not attempt to give first aid for which they have not been trained. Remember that an appointed person should be available at all times people are at work on site - this may mean appointing more than one.

Further assistance can be obtained from HSE Books.

* First aid at work. HSE Books L74, ISBN: 0717610500, £6.75
* First aid at work. HSE Books INDG 214, free for a single copy
* Basic advice on first aid at work. HSE Books INDG215, free for a single copy

To order publications from HSE Books visit www.hsebooks.co.uk

Visit HSE website at www.hse.gov.uk