Benefits of first aiders in the workplace

A 2022 HSE report shows that every year 565,000 workers in the UK sustain nonfatal injuries within the workplace. The majority of these injuries (30%) are caused by slips, trips or falls on the same level, followed by (18%) caused by handling, lifting, or carrying goods. This is why, in any workplace, safety and first aid should be a top priority.

Medical emergencies and accidents can occur at any time, in any sector, and these incidents can be mitigated by having first-aid trained staff members who are able to manage injuries until medical professionals arrive or a further decision is made on what to do next.

First-aiders across the country need to be well trained in order to fully serve the workplace as necessary and today we will explore the various benefits of having first-aid-trained staff in the workplace and how they can improve working conditions.

1. Rapid response to emergencies

One of the most prominent advantages of having first-aid trained staff in the workplace is their ability to respond quickly and effectively in case of an emergency. Whether it’s staff or customers, a well-trained first-aid responder can save lives.

When accidents happen a quick response is crucial to help minimise further injury, stabilise the current injury, and ensure the necessary treatments are administered before professional medical help arrives, all of which can make a difference to the outcome of the patient.

2. Minimising workplace injuries

It may seem obvious but when first aid responders and steps are in place, the workforce becomes more aware of potential hazards and can be more proactive when it comes to dealing with personal injuries.

A first aid training programme in the office means that all staff understand safety protocols better and can administer risk assessments as necessary to prevent any injuries or accidents throughout the day. Furthermore, first aid training in the workplace can reduce the number of injuries and the chance of legal action being taken that can damage the reputation and income of the business.

3. Improves company culture

Companies large and small are currently offering first aid training as a corporate benefit for new starters and main staff alike. This offering shows that employees care deeply about the well-being of their workforce and their potential inside and outside of work. First aid training is always a valuable skill to have at any point and can improve the confidence of individuals in a variety of situations.

First aid training courses can also be a positive way to incorporate more team building into your workforce and raise company morale, as the ‘hands-on’ methods of administering first aid can create bonds and a better understanding of the team overall. By learning together, the team can also feel that their wellbeing is secure in the hands of their colleagues and give them peace of mind that if an incident does occur – they will be well cared for.

4. Cost savings for the company

Workplace incidents and injuries can become a financial issue for companies of any size. Whether it’s staff or customers that have been injured there is always a chance that the business will be responsible for medical expenses, legal fees, and potential compensation claims made against them.

By having first aid trained staff, companies can minimise the severity of injuries and reduce recovery time, which is time that can often create the prolonged issue of redesignating workload. This can further help to lower the overall costs associated with workplace incidents such as legal fees or medical expenses.

5. Prompt and effective response to common medical conditions

While first aid can be beneficial in rare and unlikely accidents and emergencies, in some cases such as in the event of a heart attack, heat stroke, allergic reaction, or other common health condition, first aid can be just as useful.

A 2022 report indicates that correctly performing CPR could double the chances of a cardiac arrest patient’s survival which highlights the importance of thorough first aid training for all staff members as it can increase the chances of saving a life.

6. Legal compliance and accreditation

In the UK, workplaces are legally required to have a designated number of first-aid trained staff members at any time on the premises, this standard depends on the size of the team, the availability of staff, and the nature of the business or sector.

By ensuring compliance with these regulations, companies avoid potential legal issues and ensure a safer environment for employees and visitors alike. With standards ever increasing, many places now include mental health support training as an option. This helps to ensure that they have the best support available for their team and the correct accreditation to be seen as an organisation committed to improving the conditions of their workplace.

Finding the right first aid training course

Incorporating first-aid-trained staff members into the workplace is a wise investment that brings many benefits. From ensuring a rapid response to emergencies to fostering a culture of safety and compliance.

By prioritising safety and empowering staff with first aid training, companies demonstrate their commitment to their corporate welfare. Finding the right course that fits your schedule and the scale of your business is the crucial first step.

At Penshaw View we offer a variety of certified courses such as first aid training for work, manual handling, and fire marshal training to ensure that your team feels confident and prepared to use their skills whenever they’re needed.

Get in touch today to book your corporate course!