The level of first aid provision you need in your UK workplace will depend on the size and nature of your workplace. However, there are some general requirements that all employers must comply with.

The Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981 state that employers have a legal duty to provide adequate and appropriate first-aid equipment, facilities and personnel for their employees. This means that employers must:

• You should carry out a first aid needs assessment to identify the risks and hazards in their workplace and the level of first aid provision that is required.
• Provide first aid equipment and facilities that are appropriate for the needs of their workplace.
• Appoint a sufficient number of first aiders to provide first aid to their employees.
• Ensure that first aiders are adequately trained and equipped.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) recommends that employers have at least one first aider for every 50 employees. However, this is just a guide, and the number of first aiders required will depend on the specific circumstances of the workplace.

Employers should also consider the following factors when determining the level of first aid provision required in their workplace:

• The size and nature of the workplace.
• The number of employees.
• The types of hazards present in the workplace.
• The location of the workplace.
• The distance to the nearest medical facilities.

Employers can provide first aid provision in several ways, including:

• Training their employees to be first aiders.
• Hiring first aid contractors.
• Joining a first aid scheme, such as the St John Ambulance First Aid at Work scheme.

It is important to note that employers are not required to provide first aid for minor injuries or illnesses. However, employers are encouraged to provide first aid for minor injuries and illnesses where possible, as this can help to reduce the risk of the injuries or illnesses becoming more serious.

Here are some additional tips for providing first aid in the workplace:

• Make sure that first aid equipment is easily accessible and well-maintained.
• Display first aid signs in prominent locations.
• Train all employees on basic first aid procedures.
• Have a clear first aid plan and communicate it to all employees.
• Conduct regular first aid drills to ensure everyone knows what to do in an emergency.

By following these tips, employers can help to ensure that their employees have access to the first aid that they need in the event of an injury or illness.

Shop for First Aid Signs at The Sign Shed.