About this departmental advice
This non-statutory advice from the Department has been produced to summarise the key points in the guidance available from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) on first aid.
Expiry/review date
This document will be reviewed in 2013, or following any change to the related legislation.
Who is this advice for?
This advice is primarily for school leaders (including governors) and staff.
Key points
The Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981 set out first aid provision in the workplace and require employers to provide adequate and appropriate equipment and facilities. When assessing first aid needs it is recommended that the likely risk to pupils and visitors as well as staff are included, taking into account: the size of the school, the health and disability needs of the pupils, any specific hazards, the school premises and location; and considering the full range of both on-site and off-site activities.
Schools must have a room appropriate and readily available for caring for sick or injured pupils, containing a wash basin and reasonably near to a WC, under the Education (School Premises) Regulations 1999.
As in other employment sectors, unless first aid cover is part of a staff member’s contractual duties, first-aiders are selected on a voluntary basis and all first-aiders must complete HSE-approved training. Schools should keep records of any first aid treatment given by first-aiders or appointed persons.
Employers of ten or more staff must keep accident records and certain accidents are reportable to the HSE under the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 1995 (RIDDOR).
Community and voluntary-controlled schools should also follow their LA’s procedures.
