This is a question we are often asked in the training room. Many learners are happy and keen to assist in an emergency, but those who are new to the world of First Aid may have some reservations about helping, in case they face any legal consequences. In this article we will explore what it means to give First Aid and what protections are in place for First Aiders.
What Does it Mean to Give First Aid?
A First Aider is somebody who has received training to provide initial help for a casualty until somebody more experienced takes over. There are two main levels of First Aid training:
EFAW (Emergency First Aid at Work): this means the First Aider has taken a one-day course covering a range of topics such as CPR, choking, and dealing with wounds and bleeding. This would cover workers in a lower risk environment, such as a shop or a library.
FAW (First Aid at Work): the First Aider has undergone a three-day course covering all of the above and more, including recognising certain medical conditions.
Some First Aiders may have taken a Paediatric First Aid course, which would mean they have learnt about how to care for a child or baby who is ill or injured. In smaller workplaces you may have an 'Appointed Person', who is in charge of First Aid provisions such as the First Aid Kit, and calling 999 in an emergency.
Those who have been trained to give First Aid are all responsible for the following in the workplace:
Assessing the situation, prioritising treatment, and giving initial care.
Calling emergency services.
Keeping the casualty calm, safe, and comfortable.
Recording all accidents and incidents.
Protecting the casualty from cross-infection.
It is important to remember that a First Aider should only provide First Aid within the scope of what they have been taught - if somebody has only taken a Paediatric First Aid course they should only provide First Aid for a child or baby, and if somebody has only taken a one-day Emergency First Aid at Work course they couldn't treat a casualty who suffering from the effects of diabetes, for example, without requesting more experienced help.
Could I be Sued for Giving First Aid?
In short - it is unlikely you will be sued for giving First Aid. There is legislation in place to support First Aiders.
The Social Action, Responsibility, and Heroism (SARAH) Act 2015
This legislation that was brought into effect in April 2015 encourages bystanders at an incident to step in and help in good faith. If the bystander (sometimes referred to as a 'Good Samaritan') were to be sued, the courts in England and Wales must consider if the bystander acted for the 'benefit of society' and took a 'responsible approach'.
This means if the First Aider acts in good faith, and within the level of their First Aid training, it is highly unlikely they will be sued successfully as they are supported by the SARAH Act.
The Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981
These regulations outlines your key responsibilities as a First Aider in your workplace (which are written above). You would be responsible for providing initial care for a casualty until somebody more experienced takes over. It is recommended to refresh your First Aid skills annually, and your training certificate should be renewed every three years.
What if I'm Not First Aid Trained?
If you do not know how to deal with a casualty suffering from an injury or illness you have not been trained in, it is important to call for emergency help straight away. In the UK you can call 999 or 112 in an emergency and you will be helped over the phone until a professional arrives. If it is not an emergency situation but you still require advice you can call 111, the non-emergency line.
We would not recommend you risk helping a casualty when you have no idea what the best practices are, as this could be seen as not acting responsibly and could cause further injury.
What Can I Do to Meet My Legal Requirements?
If you are an employer or self-employed, you must ensure your organisation complies with the Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1974 and Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981. This means you must provide adequate and appropriate facilities, equipment, and trained personnel to ensure your employees receive immediate assistance in a medical emergency.
If you would like to learn more about your requirements, please read our articles on workplace requirements and early years (paediatric) settings requirements.
Berkshire First Aid Training provides courses to cover all levels of First Aid personnel, if you are looking for a training provider please visit our website or get in contact with us.
Comments