Definitions

First Aid at Work

The First Aid at Work training course provides a comprehensive set of practical skills needed by first aiders in most workplaces to become a confident first aider at work, giving both the ability and knowledge to deal with first aid emergencies.  It meets the standards required to help comply with Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981.  The initial qualification course is normally of three days duration; retraining and requalification must take place every three years by attending a 2-day course.

This course is suitable for providing first aid to adults only. If children may be present in the workplace, see Schools First Aid or Early Years (Paediatric) First Aid.

Emergency First Aid at Work

This one-day course covers emergency protocols only and is suitable for smaller low risk environments.

This course is suitable for providing first aid to adults only. If children may be present in the workplace, see Schools First Aid or Early Years (Paediatric) First Aid.

Appointed Person

Someone who is not qualified as a first aider but who is nominated to:

• Look after first aid equipment and facilities including restocking the first aid box(es).
• Take charge when someone becomes injured or taken ill in the absence of a first aider.
• Call an ambulance or other professional help as needed.
• Record incidents and details of treatment given.

Appointed persons are not “First Aiders” and should not give treatment for which they have not been trained.

Schools First Aid

A one-day course will give staff a good knowledge of first aid to cover common risks for school students aged 5 and over.  It is ideal for supplementing statutory First Aid at Work or Emergency First Aid at work training.

This course should be attended by those already trained in statutory First Aid at Work or Emergency First Aid at Work who wish to supplement their training to include the provision of first aid to children.

This course is not suitable as a standalone qualification and must be completed in conjunction with either the 3-day First Aid at Work, or 1-day Emergency First Aid at Work training.

Courses are also available from some providers for dealing with Anaphylaxis.

Early Years (Paediatric) First Aid (EYFS)

A two-day Paediatric First Aid course focuses on emergency scenarios that face those looking after young children and infants, including day nurseries, schools, pre-schools, before and after school clubs for children in the early years age group. St John Ambulance recommends attending this training for supporting the first aid requirements of children aged 0 – puberty.

The Paediatric First Aid course meets the Ofsted and the EYFS Framework.

Nurses

Practising nurses registered with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) and who work to the NMC Standards of Proficiency updated and brought into use in January 2019, may be regarded as First Aiders.

Matron / Welfare Officers

School Matrons / Welfare officers are usually responsible for the health and well-being of the pupils.  Matron / Welfare officer will need as a minimum, a standard First Aid at Work qualification and experience of working with children.

Designated First Aider

A qualified First Aider at Work or Emergency First Aider at Work is paid an allowance by the council, for acting as a Designated First Aider in the workplace.  

The allowance should be paid to first aiders where it is regarded as an additional responsibility.  Where the assessment shows that first aider(s) with a first aid at work qualification is needed then they must all be designated and receive the appropriate payment.  Consideration should also be given to designating and paying those trained to emergency first aid level if appropriate.

The service or local manager is responsible for designating an appropriate number of first aiders and/or emergency first aiders via the First Aid Risk Assessment (see Appendix 1) and for arranging payment. The payment comes out of the service or local manager’s salary budget.