What Are the Legal First Aid Training Requirements for Businesses?
Every employer in the UK has a legal responsibility to provide appropriate first aid cover in the workplace. But the exact requirements can sometimes feel confusing – especially for smaller businesses or those without obvious health and safety risks.
So, what does the law actually say, and what training should your business have in place?
The Law: Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981
The Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981 require all employers to:
Provide adequate and appropriate first aid equipment.
Ensure there are enough trained people to give first aid at work.
Provide information to employees about first aid arrangements.
What’s considered “adequate and appropriate” depends on the nature of your workplace.
How to Decide What You Need
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) recommends carrying out a first aid needs assessment. This looks at factors such as:
Workplace hazards (e.g. machinery, chemicals, high-risk environments).
Number of employees.
Location (e.g. remote or near emergency services).
History of accidents/incidents in your business.
Whether members of the public visit your site.
To make this process easier, we’ve created a free First Aid Needs Assessment template, which you can download and use in your workplace. It’s fully in line with HSE regulations and helps you identify exactly what level of first aid provision you need.
👉 Download your free First Aid Needs Assessment template here
Which First Aid Courses Do Businesses Need?
Most businesses will benefit from one of the following:
Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) – 1-day course, suitable for lower-risk workplaces such as offices, shops, and schools.
First Aid at Work (FAW) – 3-day course, recommended for higher-risk environments such as manufacturing, construction, or larger sites.
Paediatric First Aid – Required for early years providers to meet Ofsted and EYFS requirements.
Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Training – Increasingly expected in workplaces with public access.
How Often Should Training Be Renewed?
EFAW & FAW certificates last 3 years.
The HSE strongly recommends annual refresher training to keep skills sharp.
AED and CPR training should also be refreshed every year, particularly if staff don’t use the skills regularly.
The Business Benefits of First Aid Training
It’s not just about ticking a compliance box. Businesses that invest in first aid training often see:
Reduced accidents and incidents thanks to increased awareness.
Lower absenteeism as minor injuries are treated effectively.
Greater employee confidence in dealing with emergencies.
Improved reputation with clients, customers, and staff.
Local Support for Businesses
At First Steps First Aid Ltd, we deliver training across Hampshire and surrounding counties – including Dorset, West Sussex, Wiltshire, Surrey, and Berkshire.
Our trainers are registered paramedics, bringing real-world expertise into your workplace. We can deliver training on-site at your business or at our dedicated training venue in Portsmouth.
Stay Compliant – Protect Your Business and Your Team
Make sure your workplace is covered and compliant with HSE requirements.
👉 Book workplace first aid training with First Steps First Aid Ltd
