First aid training teaches employers and employees the skills to handle emergencies professionally. Selecting the right course depends on understanding your organisation’s specific needs, including the type of work, the level of risk (high or low), the number of employees, and the workplace size.
How many First Aiders are Required for a Workplace
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) provides the following recommendations:
Low-risk workplaces (e.g., offices) with 25 to 50 employees: At least one person should be trained in Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW).
Low-risk workplaces with more than 50 employees: One person trained in First Aid at Work (FAW) is required for every 100 staff members.
High-risk workplaces (e.g., construction sites or factories): Due to the increased likelihood of serious incidents, additional training and a greater number of first aiders are required.
Providing first aid training is not only a legal obligation for employers in the UK but also an ethical one. Having trained staff can save lives, reduce workplace injuries, and create a safer working environment
Who is a First-Aider?
A first aider is trained to help sick or injured people until professional medical help arrives. In emergencies, first aiders are often the first to respond, ensuring the safety and calmness of those involved until further help arrives. Anyone can become a first aider by learning these skills, making it a valuable way to contribute to the safety of their workplace or community.
What are the Levels of First-Aid Training
Qualified first aiders undergo one of two main types of training; FAW and EFAW training. EFAW stand for Emergency First Aid at Work course and is for lower-risk workplaces like offices or retail shops.
This one-day training covers basic CPR, managing bleeding and wounds, treating minor injuries, and handling choking incidents or other emergencies. Upon completion, participants receive a certificate valid for three years.
The First Aid at Work qualification, or FAW course, is more detailed for higher-risk workplaces. This three-day training includes everything in EFAW, along with additional topics such as managing seizures, heart attacks, diabetic emergencies, and severe allergic reactions. FAW certification is also valid for three years.
Health and safety regulations may not require a trained first aider in smaller businesses. Instead, a responsible person can be appointed to oversee first aid. While formal training isn’t compulsory for these roles, many take a Basic First Aid course to handle minor emergencies confidently. First aiders, regardless of their training level, play an important role in ensuring safety and providing immediate care during emergencies.
Ready to Learn More?
Check which course is right for you by visiting Our First Aid courses offer complete training to help you handle critical situations. Whether you want to improve your skills or workplace safety, these courses help build confidence and expertise. View our Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) and Level 3 First Aid at Work courses. These courses meet the UK legal requirements and help you keep people safe.