First aid isn’t something you think about until you need it. But when something goes wrong in the workplace, having someone trained to respond quickly can make all the difference. Whether you run a small shop or manage a busy warehouse, first aid provision is a legal requirement and a practical necessity.
What the Law Requires?
Under the Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981, all UK employers must provide “adequate and appropriate” first aid equipment, facilities and people. What this looks like depends on your workplace. You’ll need to carry out a first aid needs assessment to decide what’s required. This considers:
The size of your workforce
The nature of your work and any specific risks
Previous accident records
The layout of the site
Distance to emergency services
From this, you can decide if you need an appointed person, an emergency first aider or someone fully trained in First Aid at Work.
Who Counts as a First Aider?
There are a few options, depending on the outcome of your risk assessment.
Appointed person – Someone responsible for managing first aid equipment and calling emergency services but not trained to give first aid.
Emergency First Aider at Work – Someone who’s completed a one-day training course covering key skills such as CPR, recovery position and wound management.
First Aider at Work – Someone who’s completed a three-day course, covering a broader range of injuries and conditions, ideal for higher-risk environments.
Do Small Workplaces Need a First Aider?
Yes, even if you only have a handful of staff. You might not need someone with the full First Aid at Work qualification but you will need an appointed person at a minimum. If your work involves tools, machinery or manual handling, you should strongly consider formal first aid training. Many small businesses opt for Emergency First Aid at Work training, which gives staff the skills to respond to the most common incidents.
First Aid Courses for Organisations: Why They Matter
Organisations of all sizes benefit from first aid training. Here’s why:
Faster response time – Trained staff can act immediately while waiting for emergency services.
Fewer complications – Quick intervention can prevent minor injuries from becoming serious.
Employee confidence – Staff feel more secure knowing someone is capable of helping in an emergency.
Legal protection – Training demonstrates that your organisation takes health and safety seriously.
Better culture – It sends a clear message that you care about your team’s well-being.
How Many First Aiders Should You Have?
There’s no fixed rule but here’s a common guide:
Low-risk environments (offices, shops):
Fewer than 25 employees: one appointed person
25–50 employees: one trained emergency first aider
Over 50: at least one First Aid at Work trained person per 100 staff
High-risk environments (construction, manufacturing):
Fewer than 5 employees: one appointed person
5–50 employees: at least one trained first aider
Over 50: one first aider per 50 staff
This isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. Always assess your own risks.
What’s Covered in First Aid Courses?
Typical courses for organisations cover practical skills, including:
Managing an unresponsive casualty
CPR and AED (defibrillator) use
Burns, bleeding and fractures
Choking and breathing difficulties
Shock, seizures and allergic reactions
The First Aid at Work course includes more advanced content such as spinal injuries, chest pain and illness management.
How Often Should First Aid Training Be Renewed?
Certificates are valid for three years but many organisations opt for annual refreshers to keep skills current. In high-risk settings or where staff turnover is high, regular training is especially important.
Can First Aid Courses Be Tailored to Our Workplace?
Yes. First aid courses for organisations can be adapted to your industry. Whether you work in childcare, hospitality, construction or logistics, trainers can include examples and scenarios relevant to your environment. This makes the training more practical and improves retention.
Choosing the Right Training Provider
When selecting a provider, look for:
CPD-accredited training
Qualified, experienced trainers
Clear course outlines and practical sessions
Certificates are included in the price
Flexible delivery (on-site or online options)
It’s worth asking whether the provider offers support with your first aid needs assessment and helps you choose the right course based on your risk level.
Why First Aid Training Shouldn’t Be an Afterthought
First aid training isn’t a box to tick — it’s a practical step towards a safer, more capable team. Whether you're in a low-risk office or a high-risk industrial site, having trained staff on hand means you're better prepared for whatever comes your way. It also shows your team that their well-being is more than just a policy, it's a priority.
If you're reviewing your workplace training or need to get started, The Leicestershire Training Team can help. We’ll guide you through the process, help you choose the right course and deliver training that’s clear, relevant and engaging. Get in touch to speak with our team or book your first aid training today.
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