Popular Questions  

Here are popular FAQ questions for First Aid at Work that are commonly asked by employees and employers:

What is First Aid at Work?

First Aid at Work (FAW) is the immediate care given to someone who is injured or becomes ill at work until professional medical help arrives. It includes CPR, treating wounds, burns, fractures, choking, and managing serious conditions like heart attacks.

Is First Aid at Work training mandatory?

Employers must provide adequate and appropriate first aid arrangements. This doesn’t always mean a full FAW trained First Aider is required - it depends on the results of a first aid needs assessment.

How many First Aiders are required in a workplace?

There is no fixed number. The required number depends on:
  • Workplace size
  • Number of employees
  • Risk level (low-risk office vs high-risk construction site)
  • Shift patterns and absence cover
High-risk environments generally require more qualified first aiders.

How long is a First Aid at Work certificate valid?

A FAW certificate is valid for 3 years. After that, the individual must complete requalification training.

What is the difference between FAW and Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW)?

  • EFAW – 1-day course covering emergency life-saving skills (CPR, choking, bleeding, shock).
  • FAW – 3-day course covering a broader range of injuries and illnesses.
Higher-risk workplaces usually require full FAW training.

Who can become a workplace First Aider?

Any employee can become a First Aider if they:
  • Are physically able to perform CPR
  • Can remain calm under pressure
  • Are willing to take responsibility
They must complete accredited training.

What should be included in a workplace First Aid kit?

A typical kit includes:
  • Sterile dressings
  • Bandages
  • Plasters
  • Gloves
  • Eye pads
  • Safety pins
  • Cleansing wipes
The contents should reflect workplace risks (e.g. burn dressings in kitchens etc.).

Where should First Aid kits be located?

They should be:
  • Easily accessible
  • Clearly marked
  • Available on every floor or work area
  • Close to high-risk zones

Do small businesses need a First Aider?

Even small, low-risk businesses must have at least an appointed person responsible for First Aid arrangements. A full FAW qualification may not always be required.

What records should be kept after administering First Aid?

Employers should record:
  • Date and time
  • Name of injured person
  • Details of injury
  • Treatment given
  • Name of first aider
Serious incidents may need reporting under RIDDOR (Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 2013).

What are an employer’s legal responsibilities?

Employers must:
  • Conduct a First Aid needs assessment
  • Provide trained personnel
  • Supply appropriate equipment
  • Inform employees of arrangements
  • Review provisions regularly

Do we need to report all workplace injuries?

Not all injuries must be reported externally. Minor injuries only need internal recording. Certain serious injuries, work-related diseases, and dangerous occurrences must be reported under RIDDOR.

How often should First Aid kits be checked?

Kits should be inspected:
  • Monthly (recommended)
  • After any use
  • Before high-risk activities
Expired or used items must be replaced immediately.

Is CPR included in First Aid at Work training?

Yes. CPR and use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) are core components of both FAW and EFAW training.

Do workplaces need an AED?

AED's are not legally mandatory in most workplaces, but they are strongly recommended, especially in larger workplaces or high-footfall areas. Early defibrillation greatly improves survival rates.

When is a dedicated First Aid room required?

A First Aid room may be required in:
  • Larger workplaces
  • Higher-risk environments
  • Sites with significant hazards
It must be clearly signposted and accessible.

How often should First Aid needs assessments be reviewed?

They should be reviewed:
  • Annually (best practice)
  • After significant changes (staffing, layout, new hazards)
  • Following a serious incident

What happens if a First Aid certificate expires?

The individual can no longer act as a qualified First Aider until they complete requalification training.

Are mental health First Aiders legally required?

There is no legal requirement for mental health first aiders. However, employers still have duties under health and safety law to protect employees’ mental wellbeing.

What should I do if someone collapses at work?

  1. Check for danger
  2. Check responsiveness
  3. Call emergency services (999 in the UK)
  4. Begin CPR if necessary
  5. Use an AED if available
  6. Continue until help arrives