New guidance on first aid at work

The HSE has updated its guidance on how to deal with accidents and illness at work*. The leaflet is designed to be a useful reference point for trained first aiders, explaining how to resuscitate a casualty and deal with severe bleeding, broken bones, burns and eye injuries. It has been revised in line with the latest recommendations on first aid practice from the European Resuscitation Council (ERC). The main change is a return to the recovery position recommended by the ERC in 1992.

Employers have a duty, under the Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981, to assess what first aid provision is needed in their workplace. They must provide suitable facilities, equipment andpersonnel to enable first aid to be administered.

*The new leaflet 'Basic Advice on First Aid at Work' (INDG215) (rev 2), and 'First Aid at Work - Your Questions Answered' (IND(G)214L) is available from HSE Books. 26/4/99.
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