The Ultimate Guide To First Aid Training In The Workplace

First Aid
First Aid

Workplaces may expose employees to hazardous risks, which vary depending on the nature of the work. Even though businesses typically aim at maximizing productivity, it shouldn’t put employees at risk. Every business must have robust systems to prevent work-related injuries.

One of the best ways to go about it is by training the employees on safety and first aid. When an accident happens at work, it’d be best to try and contain it before seeking medical assistance. The guide below gives insights on first aid training in the workplace:

Advantages Of Training Your Employees

Accidents are unpredictable, so it’s best to always be prepared. That’s why it’s essential to train your employees to give first aid to their colleagues. The training depends on the risks the staff is exposed to. In addition, getting appropriate training from qualified first aiders may be necessary. And as part of the coaching program, your employees can watch a training video for more insights. Some benefits of training your employees on handling first aid include the following:

  • The work environment becomes better and safer since everyone is aware of the risks and safety protocols
  • Quick responses to threats
  • It reduces further injuries after an accident

It’s best to incorporate first-aid training into your business culture. If you keep revising the safety standards with lessons and guidance, your employees’ skills will be at par.

Identifying Your Training Needs

The first step to implementing first aid training is assessing the types of risks and their immediate consequences in your workplace. You can conduct a business threat assessment that helps you understand the safety hazards in your organization. For instance, if you run a construction company, your employees are exposed to different threats than those working in a chemical plant. Thus, it’s necessary to identify your safety needs first. From there, you’re able to offer the proper training.

Common First Aid Emergencies At The Workplace

Again, the emergencies depend on the nature of work. That said, some common first aid emergencies at the workplace are:

  • Burns
  • Cuts
  • Falling from heights
  • Sprained muscles
  • Seizures
  • Allergic reactions
  • Falling objects

These emergencies are classified as low-risk and high-risk. The former refers to minor hazards that first aid can take care of. The latter requires medical attention. But first aid can help make the situation better before seeking professional help.

Essential First Aid Equipment You Should Have In Your Workplace

Providing critical equipment to your employees goes a long way toward making the training productive. Thus, your first-aid kit should have the necessary equipment for faster response to emergencies. On that note, your first aid kit shouldn’t miss the following:

  • Surgical tapes
  • Antiseptic wipes
  • Antiseptic solution
  • Band-aids
  • Resuscitation face shield
  • Adhesive dressing
  • Disposable gloves
  • Sterile eye pads

On top of this, you should also have an introductory leaflet on the guiding principles of first aid. It helps when an emergency happens, and those around don’t know how to go about it.

Tips For Creating A Safe Workplace

Creating a safe working space is crucial. It reduces the chances of accidents and injuries happening as your employees work. Here are some safety tips that you can use for your workplace:

  • Have clear and defined safety responsibilities. In other words, every department should have official policies and procedures to promote workplace safety.
  • Have regular inspections on your first aid equipment to ensure they work well. The last thing you’d want to happen in the workplace is not being able to respond to accidents because the equipment isn’t working.
  • Partner with training providers to ensure regular first-aid training for your employees. The good thing about working with experts is that they can tailor programs that address your situation.
  • It’d be best if you allowed your employees to communicate any health-related issues, such as allergies.

These tips guarantee safety at your workplace. Even if accidents happen, your team is well-equipped to respond to emergencies.

Health Safety Regulations At The Workplace

First aid training should comply with typical rules and regulations outlined by local authorities. It’s the employer’s responsibility to ensure that the workplace is safe for their employees. According to health and safety laws, you’re supposed to provide enough equipment to facilitate first aid. Additionally, you should ensure your employees get medical attention if an accident happens at work. You could be sued and face the law if you neglect them after getting injured. You’re also required to have a first aider in your workplace. Another condition you must adhere to is the number of first-aiders present at your workplace, depending on the number of workers. Some of these conditions for low-risk workplaces include:

  • One aider for 5 – 50 workers
  • Additional one for every 100 workers

For high-risk workplaces:

  • One for 25 workers
  • Two for 26 – 50 workers

Such safety regulations ensure your workers are safe from workplace accidents and injuries. With the correct number of first aiders, you’ll improve work productivity since your employees can work without worrying about getting injured.

Conclusion

The responsibility of protecting your workers lies with you. The best you can do is prepare them for accidents if they happen. First aid training is an excellent way to ensure they have what it takes to handle an emergency before medics arrive. You can save lives and prevent severe damage with first aid treatment. On the same note, you must ensure your first-aid kit is regularly inspected. That way, they’re helpful if needed.