Do you have trained first aiders present?

Many employers are inadvertently breaching health and safety laws by not training enough staff in first aid, according to St John Ambulance.
Research by the first aid charity found that 79 per cent of businesses experienced periods of time where no trained first aiders were present.

“It's vital people have first aid skills in the workplace at all times” said Clive James, training and development manager at St John Ambulance. “In the case of cardiac arrest, if someone is not there to start CPR before an ambulance arrives, the chance of survival is very remote.”

A company without a recognised trained first aider puts the wellbeing of staff at risk and there is always a possibility of accidents or sudden illness in the workplace. Inadequate cover could mean an employer is in breach of legal obligations research suggests the HSE's new guidance is yet to be fully embraced.

Many companies may still be under the impression that an Appointed persons course alone provides adequate cover. But, HSE guidance states that the role of Appointed person 'includes looking after the first aid equipment and facilities and calling the emergency services when required, The Appointed person should not attempt to give first aid for which they have not been trained.'

The HSE approved one day Emergency first aid at work course replaces the Appointed persons course for training first aiders. It is the minimum St John Ambulance recommends in a workplace of five or more employees. Courses taken before October 2009 are still valid for three years from the date of qualification, but requalification should now be on the one day Emergency first aid at work course.

To find out more and check how many qualified first aiders your workplace needs, use the Workplace training guide at www.sja.org.uk/comply.