First-aid training in the workplace can save lives. It can also mean staff receive proper treatment for work-related injuries quickly which can have a number of benefits including a faster recovery time and a more productive workplace.
Generally, there is a growing need for fully-trained first-aiders in many workplaces but the time and costs involved in training staff can be off-putting. However, in this blog post, we look at some of the reasons why having trained first-aiders is beneficial to both employees and employers.
Why provide first-aid training?
Having first-aiders working for you isn’t just something that you should aspire to. It is a legal requirement. The Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981 state that employers must “provide, or ensure that there are provided, such equipment and facilities as are adequate and appropriate” to allow first-aid to be carried out where required.
It also states that employers must “ensure that there is provided, such number of suitable persons as is adequate and appropriate in the circumstances for rendering first-aid to his employees” in case a member of staff is injured or becomes ill at work.
What does first-aid training cover?
First-aid training is a structured educational program designed to equip staff with the ability to provide immediate assistance to someone experiencing a medical emergency, injury or illness. It can encompass a wide range of topics, including:
- CPR training. CPR can be life-saving – even if CPR does not lead to the resuscitation of an injured worker, it could keep them alive until trained paramedics arrive.
- Choking training. Dealing with choking incidents swiftly and correctly can prevent suffocation.
- Controlling bleeding. Various methods for controlling bleeding are covered, from applying direct pressure to using tourniquets. This can be critical in preventing significant blood loss.
- Managing burns. Trainees learn how to assess and treat different types of burns and scalds which can reduce pain and lower the risk of infection.
- Fractured bone training. If a broken bone is treated incorrectly, it could cause further problems for the injured party. As such, first-aid training helps staff know what to do and what not to do if a fracture is suspected.
- Managing other medical emergencies. First-aid training also covers a wide range of other emergencies such as dealing with allergic reactions, seizures, strokes and diabetic emergencies.
As you can see, a number of different medical emergencies could be dealt with by a workplace first-aider provided they have received the proper training.
Providing a swift response to emergencies
In the event of a workplace accident or medical emergency, the first few minutes are often the most critical. In some cases, prompt and effective first-aid can be the difference between life and death, or between a full recovery and a long-term disability.
Staff who are not trained in first-aid might panic in the immediate aftermath of a workplace accident which can cause the injured party to suffer more than they need to. On the other hand, fully trained employees can respond quickly and confidently in an effort to stabilise the injured party until they can be treated by a medical professional (paramedic, doctor etc.).
This swift response can:
- Save lives.
- Prevent injuries worsening.
- Reduce pain and suffering.
- Minimise recovery time.
Hopefully, this section has demonstrated the benefits to injured workers when they are treated by a trained first-aider rather than an inexperienced colleague.
How does first-aid reduce the severity of injuries?
As we touched upon in the previous section, prompt first-aid not only addresses immediate life-threatening situations but can also play an important role in minimising the long-term consequences of injuries. By taking appropriate action early on, first-aiders can:
- Prevent infection. If a wound is not kept clean, any dirt, debris or germs could lead to an infection which could cause serious health complications.
- Promote healing. The risk of risk of long-term complications can be reduced if a first-aider. For example, immobilising a fracture could help the bones to heal correctly and reduce any future disability.
- Reduce pain and discomfort. Being treated by a trained first-aider can significantly reduce the amount of pain endured by the injured party. Conversely, treatment provided by an untrained colleague could have the reverse effect.
- Reduce scarring. The correct treatment of scalds and burns can help minimise scarring and improve cosmetic outcomes.
Reducing the severity of a worker’s injuries is another way first-aiders can benefit the company. Again, providing fast and efficient first-aid following an accident at work could help to ensure the injured party is available to work sooner rather than later.
How does first-aid training create a safer workplace?
First-aid training is not just about reacting to emergencies, it also plays an important role in preventing them.
Staff trained in first-aid become more alert to potential hazards, enabling them to identify risks and take proactive measures to prevent accidents. Additionally, they are more likely to report even minor injuries promptly, allowing the company to intervene early and prevent minor incidents from escalating into serious problems.
Ultimately, a workplace with trained first-aiders is not only better prepared to handle emergencies but also creates a safer environment where employees know who to turn to for help and can trust in their colleagues’ ability to respond effectively.
Boosting employee confidence and morale
Investing in first-aid training not only enhances physical safety but also positively impacts employees’ state of mind. Knowing that they have the skills to handle emergencies effectively can empower them and boost their confidence. Additionally, first-aid training often involves group activities and simulations, fostering teamwork and communication among workers, which contributes to a happier and more cohesive workforce.
The presence of adequately trained first-aiders can result in staff being less stressed about the risk of being injured at work. Employees who feel safe whilst they are working are more likely to be satisfied with their jobs and committed to their employer.
As discussed in this section, the benefits of first-aid training extend beyond immediate physical health. Improving staff confidence and morale are significant non-tangible advantages that provide a strong incentive to invest in a comprehensive first-aid training program.
Legal and financial benefits
Failing to comply with the Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981 can result in fines and legal action. By investing in first-aid training, employers can:
- Ensure legal compliance. Providing adequate first-aid training and products can help companies meet the statutory requirements for first-aid provisions in the workplace.
- Avoid fines and penalties. Large fines may be issued to companies who can’t prove that they’ve met the requirements of workplace safety legislation.
- Reduce insurance premiums. Fewer accidents and workplace injuries might lead to lower insurance premiums over a period of time with the same insurer.
- Minimise productivity losses. As we’ve touched upon already, injured workers may need extended periods away from work to recover. If they are treated correctly at the time of their accident, their recovery time could be greatly reduced.
Additionally, if you are responsible for your employee’s accident, they could be entitled to start a personal injury claim against you. The amount of compensation a company might need to pay if the claim is won could be reduced if adequate first-aid was performed to reduce the extent of their worker’s injuries.
Enhanced corporate image
Your company’s reputation is paramount. In the world of social media and online reviews, a company with a high number of workplace accidents could face a lot of negative press which can spread like wildfire.
One way to potentially avoid negative exposure and enhance your company’s image is by providing first-aid training. This demonstrates a commitment to your employee well-being and safety, which can attract and retain high-quality employees. On the flip side, a poor reputation for staff welfare might deter potential candidates from applying for roles.
Another negative is that customers who read negative articles about your company’s health and safety record might consider reducing the level of business they put your way.
On the plus side, you could use press releases to highlight the positive impact first-aid training has had on your business. This could result in a much more positive view of your company for customers, potential employees and the general public.
Not only that, but investors may be more likely to get involved with your company if they can see that you put the safety of your employees at the heart of everything you do.
While first-aid training should not be offered simply to enhance your corporate image, there’s no doubt that if things are done correctly, it won’t do any harm to your company at all!
Conclusion
By investing in first-aid training, employers not only fulfil their legal obligations but can also demonstrate a genuine commitment to the well-being of their workforce. This investment can pay dividends in the form of increased productivity, reduced costs and a positive corporate image.
In reality, first-aid training can be a win-win situation for both employers and employees because it creates a safer and more resilient workplace for everyone.
