Adequate first aid provision on construction sites saves lives. The Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations require employers to provide sufficient first aiders, first aid kits, and facilities based on a needs assessment considering the number of workers, the hazards present, and the site location. On high-risk construction sites, appointed first aiders must hold a valid three-day First Aid at Work certificate. Knowing where the first aid kit is and who the first aiders are should be the first thing every worker learns on arrival.
Key Hazards
Delayed treatment from insufficient first aiders or inaccessible first aid equipment
Expired or depleted first aid kit contents reducing the quality of emergency treatment
Workers unable to identify the first aiders because their roles are not communicated
Remote site locations extending ambulance response times beyond critical treatment windows
Control Measures
Complete a first aid needs assessment considering workforce numbers, site hazards, and location.
Appoint sufficient trained first aiders to provide coverage during all working hours and shifts.
Position first aid kits at accessible locations across the site and display their positions on signage.
Check first aid kit contents weekly and restock any used or expired items immediately.
Display the names, photographs, and locations of appointed first aiders in welfare and work areas.
Provide a suitable first aid room on larger sites with a treatment couch, sink, and privacy.
Ensure first aiders hold current three-day First Aid at Work certificates renewed every three years.
Brief all workers on the location of first aid kits and the identity of first aiders during induction.
Provide additional specialist equipment such as burns kits and eye wash where specific hazards exist.
Remember
Knowing where the first aid kit is and who the first aiders are must be your first priority on any site.
First aid kit contents must be checked weekly and restocked immediately after any use.
First aiders on construction sites must hold a three-day First Aid at Work certificate as minimum.
The number of first aiders required depends on the workforce size, hazards, and site remoteness.
Display first aider names and photographs prominently so every worker can identify them instantly.
On remote sites, enhanced first aid provision compensates for longer ambulance response times.
Applicable Legislation: Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981 · CDM Regulations 2015 · Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974