Adequate first aid needed for workplaces

WorkCover NSW is reminding businesses of the importance of proper first-aid procedures in reducing workplace injuries.

General manager of WorkCover’s Work Health and Safety Division John Watson said many businesses and workers took for granted the importance of proper amenities and first aid.

“Every worker should go home safely at the end of the day and under NSW work health and safety laws businesses must provide adequate amenities and first aid,” Watson said.

“If a worker is injured, first aid can reduce the severity of the injury and, in extreme cases, a quick response can mean the difference between life and death.

“First aid requirements vary depending on the nature of work carried out, including the size and location, the number and composition of workers and hazards at the site.

“Every business must provide first-aid equipment and ensure that each worker has access to equipment and facilities to administer first aid. They must also ensure there is an adequate number of workers trained to administer first aid that workers have access to them.”

Watson said workers should have a clear understanding of first aid in their workplace.

“Under work health and safety laws, workers must comply with any reasonable instruction and cooperate with any reasonable policy or procedure relating to health and safety at the workplace, including first aid and the reporting of injuries and illnesses,” he said.

“A business should also regularly review their first-aid arrangements in consultation with workers to ensure they remain adequate and effective.”

A draft code of practice, First Aid in the Workplace, provides practical guidance for the provision of appropriate first aid in the workplace including first-aid training, first-aid kits, procedures and facilities.

For more information about first-aid requirements visit the WorkCover website or call 13 10 50.