Low-Risk Businesses: Legal Requirements

---

As you’d expect, the HSE recommends a higher number of first aider at work personnel for more hazardous workplaces. Examples include businesses in sectors such as forestry, agriculture, construction, catering, or engineering, particularly where employees handle chemicals or use machinery.

For these employers, the recommended number of first aid personnel is outlined below.

No of employees                                                         Number of first aid personnel (minimum)

Fewer than 5                                                                  1 appointed person

5 to 50                                                                               1 EFAW trained first aider or 1 FAW trained first aider

50+                                                                                     1 FAW trained first aider per 50 people 

The message is clear: the more hazards present, the more likely accidents are to occur.

Additionally, as the number of personnel increases, so does the likelihood of emergencies such as anaphylaxis or heart attacks. In both scenarios, it’s wise to exceed the minimum requirements by having extra staff with FAW training.

It’s also important to remember that a three-day First Aid at Work course may not be sufficient for every workplace. You may need to consider specialist training if you identify specific risks, such as working with certain chemicals.

While the HSE's recommended numbers are helpful, you need to balance them against several factors during your first aid needs assessment.

Here are some key considerations:

• Number and Layout of Sites: Ensure there are enough first aiders at each site. Can at least one first aider quickly reach any part of the workplace in an emergency?
• Different Activities: If your workplace has varied activities, such as a factory with attached offices, you’ll likely need more first aiders in the factory. Conduct separate needs assessments for each area.
• Previous Accidents and Illnesses: If certain types of accidents or illnesses have occurred before, ensure you have first aiders trained to handle these situations. Also, consider staff with specific health needs or disabilities.
• First Aid Equipment: You need suitably stocked first aid boxes, ideally meeting British Standard BS 8599-1, and additional items for identified hazards. If you have specialised equipment like a defibrillator, ensure enough first aiders are trained to use it.
• Specific Injuries: Identify potential injuries like burns, scalds, falls, or poisoning, and ensure you have first aiders with appropriate training and equipment.
• Proximity to Emergency Services: If your workplace is far from emergency services, have additional first aiders with more specialist training. Inform emergency services of any specific hazards in advance.
• Visitors: While not obligatory, it’s sensible to have first aid provision for visitors. If children often visit, consider having staff trained in Paediatric first aid.
• Sufficient Coverage at All Times: Ensure you have the right number of first aiders available during all operating times, considering shift work, out-of-hours operations, and absences.
• 
  

By planning in advance and assessing your specific needs, you can guarantee continuous first aid coverage and not compromise the health and safety of your employees.