What is this document?
INDG214 is the HSE's introductory guide to first aid provision in the workplace. It answers the most common questions employers have about their first aid duties under the Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981.
The guide provides practical advice on assessing your first aid needs, deciding how many first aiders you require, and what equipment and facilities should be in place. It includes a helpful checklist for establishing appropriate first aid provision.
Who needs to read this?
- Small business owners who need to understand their first aid duties
- Care providers managing first aid arrangements for staff and service users
- Office managers responsible for workplace safety
- Health and safety representatives setting up or reviewing first aid provision
- Anyone employing staff who needs to meet first aid requirements
- Self-employed people working with others on site
Key points covered
The guide answers fundamental questions about workplace first aid:
- What first aid at work means and the difference between first aid and emergency first aid
- Legal requirements under the first aid regulations
- Assessing your needs based on workplace hazards, workforce size, and work patterns
- Who can be a first aider and the training they need
- First aid kit contents and what should be included
- Appointed persons and their role when trained first aiders are not required
- Information for employees about first aid arrangements
- Record keeping for first aid incidents
How this applies to you
Start by assessing your workplace to determine what first aid provision you need. Consider the nature of your work, the hazards present, the number of employees, and whether you have shift workers or lone workers.
Low-risk workplaces like offices may only need an appointed person and a basic first aid kit. Higher-risk environments or larger workforces will need trained first aiders and possibly a first aid room.
Make sure all employees know who your first aiders or appointed persons are and where to find first aid equipment. Display this information clearly, and review your arrangements when your workforce or activities change.
For guidance on managing other workplace health and safety matters, see our workplace safety topic guide. If your work involves specific hazards, you may need additional first aid measures as part of your risk assessment.