Due to its potential to cause more harm than good in the wrong hands, First Aid is a subject that can only be taught by suitably qualified and HSE registered persons.
The main aims are to:
- Preserve life
- Prevent the condition worsening
- Promote recovery
First Aid must only be carried out by qualified persons who have been trained to the standards as laid down under the Health & Safety (First Aid) Regulations.
There are three categories of First Aid personnel:
- First Aider - Full qualification
- Appointed person - Part qualification for emergency
- Appointed person - Non qualified usually takes charge in the event of an emergency, calls ambulance etc and takes care of the equipment.
A First Aider may assume the position of the lower qualified persons.
Employers must assess their First Aid needs in the light of their particular circumstances - such as the risk of injury and ill health, and the number of people that may be affected.
Employers should remember to take into account the age and health of employees and their disability needs. Allowances have to be made for staff holidays and sickness to ensure cover for all periods of operation.