Working in Construction: What First Aid Provisions do I need?
In the fast-paced and challenging world of construction, safeguarding the health and safety of workers is not just a priority—it's a fundamental responsibility. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) provides crucial guidelines to ensure that construction workers have the requisite first aid provisions. In this guide, we aim to simplify this vital information, offering valuable insights for small business owners and contractors on first aid training and provisions. As a leader in practical first aid training, First Steps First Aid Ltd is here to guide you through the process seamlessly.
Understanding Your First Aid Needs:
Construction sites present a multitude of potential hazards, from machinery mishaps to falls and injuries. The initial step towards ensuring sufficient first aid provisions is conducting a thorough "First-Aid Needs Assessment." This process tailors first aid measures to your site's unique demands. While the HSE provides information on their website, we've made it even easier for you with a downloadable template and user guide from First Steps First Aid Ltd. Streamline your process and ensure compliance effortlessly.
[Download our First-Aid Needs Assessment Template and User Guide.]
Minimum Requirements for Every Site:
The Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981 outline the minimum requirements for construction sites:
A first aid box equipped for the number of workers on site.
An appointed person in charge of first-aid arrangements.
Clearly communicated information about the appointed person or first aider's identity and location, ideally through a notice in the site hut.
Understanding the Appointed Person:
An appointed person oversees first-aid equipment and facilities, calls emergency services when required, and can provide emergency cover when a first-aider is unexpectedly absent. Importantly, appointed persons do not require formal first-aid training.
Becoming a Certified First-Aider:
To be recognised as a first-aider, individuals must undergo training and hold an HSE-approved qualification. This includes a valid certificate in either first aid at work (FAW) or emergency first aid at work (EFAW) from an approved training organization or a recognized Awarding Body of Ofqual/Scottish Qualifications Authority.
Determining First Aider Numbers:
A First Aid Needs Assessment should guide the determination of first aid provisions. As a general rule, the HSE advises the following:
Fewer than 5 people: At least one appointed person.
5–50 people: At least one first-aider trained in EFAW or FAW.
More than 50 people: At least one FAW-trained first-aider for every 50 employees (or part of 50).
Your Role in First Aid Training:
All contractors/trades should assess their work environments. If routinely working on sites with over 5 people, having at least one first aid trained individual is advisable. Not only does this ensure immediate assistance availability, but it also enhances employ-ability for larger site work. First Steps First Aid Ltd offers comprehensive first aid training—empowering you to protect colleagues and boost your professional credentials.
If you're ready to enhance safety on your construction site, get in touch with First Steps First Aid Ltd. Our expert-led training and user-friendly resources make prioritising first aid provisions a seamless process. Invest in safety, elevate your skills, and build a secure work environment today.
