Are you a first-aider?

What is a first-aider?

A first-aider is someone who has undertaken training and has a qualification that HSE approves. This means that they must hold a valid certificate of competence in either:

• first aid at work, issued by a training organisation approved by HSE; or
• emergency first aid at work, issued by a training organisation approved by HSE or a recognised Awarding Body of Ofqual/Scottish Qualifications Authority.

You can view the list of our recommended training organisations.

Employers can use the findings of their first-aid needs assessment to decide whether first-aiders should be trained in first aid at work or emergency first aid at work.

• Emergency first aid at work (EFAW) training enables a first-aider to give emergency first aid to someone who is injured or becomes ill while at work.
• First aid at work training includes EFAW and also equips the first-aider to apply first aid to a range of specific injuries and illness. 

To help keep their basic skills up to date, it is strongly recommended that first-aiders undertake annual refresher training.

How many first-aiders does an employer need?

The findings of an employer's first-aid needs assessment will help them decide how many first-aiders are required. There are no hard and fast rules on exact numbers and they will need to take into account all the relevant circumstances of their particular workplace.

The table in the leaflet First aid at work: your questions answered, provides general guidance on how many first-aiders or appointed persons might be needed. They can also use the First aid at work assessment tool.

Can legal action be taken against first-aiders?

It is very unlikely that any action would be taken against a first-aider who was using the first-aid training they have received. HSE cannot give any specific advice on this issue as it does not fall within HSE's statutory powers.

It is recommended that you seek legal advice, or advice from your employer's insurance brokers on whether their policies cover first-aiders' liability.