Seven Essential First Aid Skills Every Workplace Needs

Workplace accidents happen every 7 seconds in the UK, costing billions annually. Proper first aid training can reduce injuries by 25% and even save lives. Here’s a quick overview of the 7 essential first aid skills every workplace needs:

1. Assessing Emergencies: Use the DRSABCD method to evaluate danger, check response, and manage the situation.
2. CPR and AED Use: CPR can double survival rates, and AEDs are crucial for cardiac emergencies.
3. Stopping Major Bleeding: Learn the ABC method – Alert, Bleeding, Compress – and use tools like tourniquets effectively.
4. Choking Response: Master the Heimlich manoeuvre and modify techniques for pregnant or obese individuals.
5. Burn Treatment: Treat thermal, chemical, and electrical burns quickly and correctly.
6. Fractures and Sprains: Use immobilisation and the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) for injuries.
7. Recognising Medical Emergencies: Identify heart attacks, strokes, allergic reactions, and diabetic issues using clear protocols.

Why It Matters

• Proper first aid boosts employee safety, satisfaction, and productivity.
• HSE compliance and training reduce liability and workplace injuries by up to 50%.

Invest in training, maintain updated first aid kits, and conduct regular drills to create a safer workplace.

How to Use an AED on an Adult

1. How to Assess Emergency Situations

Taking quick, organised steps can safeguard both victims and responders during emergencies.

The “DRSABCD” action plan is a globally accepted method for evaluating workplace emergencies:

1. Check for Danger

Look for any risks in the area, such as electrical issues, chemicals, structural damage, or active threats.

2. Check Response

Use the ‘shout-tap-shout’ method to check if the person is responsive. If there’s no response, contact emergency services right away.

3. Send for Help

Assign someone to call emergency services. When making the call, provide the following details:

Information to Provide	Example
Location	Building name, floor, and specific area
Nature of Emergency	Type of injury or incident
Number of Victims	How many people are affected and their condition
Hazards Present	Any dangers responders need to know about
Contact Person	Your name and phone number

Once help is on the way, move to check the airway and breathing.

4. Check Airway and Breathing

Look for chest movement and listen for breathing sounds. If the person is unconscious but breathing, position them in recovery mode. If they’re not breathing, start CPR.

5. Assess Circulation

If there’s major bleeding, apply direct pressure to control it while waiting for emergency responders.

Critical Warning Signs

Be alert for these signs of immediate danger:

• Changes in consciousness
• Trouble breathing
• Chest pain or pressure
• Sudden weakness
• Heavy bleeding
• Symptoms of shock

Handling Multiple Casualties

In situations with multiple victims, use the START triage system tos care:

• Red (Immediate): Critical injuries needing urgent attention.
• Yellow (Delayed): Serious injuries that can wait for a short time.
• Green (Minor): Minor injuries; victims can walk and wait.
• Black (Deceased): No signs of life.

Document all actions and observations during the emergency for future reference.

Personal Protection

Always use proper protective gear to keep yourself safe to ensure effective infection control:

• Disposable gloves
• Face masks (if available)
• Eye protection for splashes
• Protective clothing for contamination risks

2. CPR and Heart Emergency Response

Once the initial emergency assessment is complete, knowing how to perform CPR is the next step in handling cardiac emergencies effectively.

Performing CPR can double or even triple survival rates during workplace cardiac emergencies. Employees need to be well-trained to act quickly and confidently.

Recognising Cardiac Emergencies

Watch for these warning signs of a heart attack in coworkers:

• Chest discomfort that feels like pressure or squeezing
• Pain radiating to the arms, neck, or jaw
• Sudden shortness of breath
• Cold sweats, often with nausea
• Lightheadedness or dizziness

Women might show less obvious symptoms, such as shortness of breath, nausea, or jaw pain.

Modern CPR Technique

Follow these updated chest compression guidelines for effective CPR:

Component	Specification	Key Details
Rate	100–120 per minute	Match the beat of “Stayin’ Alive”
Depth	At least 5-6 cm	Ensure full chest recoil
Position	Center of the chest	Between the nipples
Interruptions	Minimise	Avoid unnecessary pauses

Using Workplace AEDs

When using an AED:

1. Turn it on and attach the electrode pads to the exposed chest.
2. Stand clear while the AED analyses the heart rhythm.
3. If a shock is recommended, deliver it.
4. Resume CPR immediately after the shock.

AEDs are a critical part of the workplace response system and can save lives when used correctly.

Workplace Chain of Survival

The workplace chain of survival involves these key steps:

1. Early Recognition: Train employees to identify cardiac emergencies and activate the workplace emergency response system.
2. Immediate CPR: Start chest compressions without delay.
3. Rapid Defibrillation: Make AEDs easily accessible and clearly marked for quick use.

Special Workplace Considerations

Certain work environments require extra precautions:

• Electrical Work: Use insulated tools and follow electrocution safety protocols.
• Remote Locations: Plan evacuation routes and designate meeting points.
• Multi-Level Buildings: Place AEDs on each floor for easy access.
• Shift Work: Ensure trained responders are available 24/7.

Training Requirements

To maintain readiness, workplaces should:

• Renew CPR certifications every year.
• Perform monthly AED inspections.
• Conduct quarterly emergency drills.
• Keep records of all training and certifications.
• Ensure that the instructor teaching the course, has the correct first aid instructor rating from an established company like ITG Instructor Training.

3. How to Stop Major Bleeding

After addressing heart emergencies, controlling heavy bleeding is the next priority. Containing blood loss quickly can save lives in workplace emergencies. Studies show that uncontrolled bleeding causes 35% of pre-hospital deaths and 40% of deaths within the first 24 hours of injury.

The ABC Method for Bleeding Control

The “ABC” method provides straightforward steps to manage severe bleeding:

• Alert: Activate your workplace’s emergency protocol.
• Bleeding: Identify where the bleeding is coming from.
• Compress: Apply firm, steady pressure to the wound to slow blood loss.

Direct Pressure Technique

Direct pressure is one of the most effective ways to handle severe bleeding. Here’s how to do it properly:

Step	Action	Notes
1	Put on disposable gloves	Protects both responder and victim
2	Apply firm, continuous pressure	Hold pressure for at least 15 mins
3	Use sterile gauze or a clean cloth	Add layers if blood soaks through
4	Elevate the injured area if possible	Only if it doesn’t worsen the pain

Advanced Bleeding Control Methods

If direct pressure isn’t enough, consider these additional measures:

• Haemostatic Dressings: Products like Woundlot or Celox are effective for areas where tourniquets can’t be used.
• Tourniquet Application: Place a tourniquet 2–3 inches above the wound. Tighten until the bleeding stops and note the time of application. Proper use has a 78–87% success rate for controlling severe limb bleeding.

Workplace-Specific Considerations

Different environments call for tailored bleeding control strategies:

• Industrial Settings: Keep trauma kits near machinery prone to accidents.
• Remote Locations: Stock extra supplies, including hemostatic agents.
• Office Environments: Ensure first aid stations are easy to find with clear signage.

Updating Workplace First Aid Kits

Make sure your workplace first aid kits include:

• Sterile gauze and trauma pads in various sizes
• Hemostatic gauze or agents
• Commercial tourniquets
• TourniKEY or improvised tourniquet
• Compression bandages or wraps
• Trauma shears for cutting clothing or bandages

Training for Bleeding Control

Hands-on training is essential for effective bleeding management. Safety programs should include practice with wound simulators, regular drills, and refresher courses.

Integrating these techniques into workplace safety plans enhances overall emergency readiness.

4. Choking Response and Rescue

Choking is a leading cause of unintentional injury deaths, with 20% of cases occurring in workplace settings.

Recognising Choking Signs

Look for these signs to identify choking:

• Hands held to the throat (the universal choking sign)
• Difficulty speaking or breathing
• Wheezing or noisy attempts to breathe
• Skin turning blue
• Weak or ineffective coughing

Standard Response Protocol

Five back slaps followed by five abdominal thrusts are the primary response for conscious adults. Follow these steps:

Step	Action	Details
1	Position	Stand behind the person and wrap your arms around their waist.
2	Hand placement	Make a fist, place it above the navel, and hold it with your other hand.
3	Thrust technique	Deliver strong, upward abdominal thrusts.
4	Continue	Repeat until the object is dislodged or the person’s condition worsens.

Adjust your method based on the individual’s needs.

Special Circumstances

Some situations call for modified techniques:

Pregnant or Obese Individuals: Use chest thrusts instead of abdominal thrusts. Place your hands in the center of the breastbone and apply quick, backward thrusts.

Infants Under One Year:

• Support the infant face-down on your forearm.
• Give 5 back blows between the shoulder blades.
• Turn the infant face-up and perform 5 chest thrusts if needed.
• Alternate between back blows and chest thrusts until the blockage is cleared.

Unconscious Victim Protocol

If the person becomes unconscious:

1. Call emergency services immediately.
2. Start CPR with chest compressions.
3. Check the mouth for visible obstructions between compressions.
4. Continue until help arrives.

These steps highlight the importance of proper first aid training in workplaces.

Workplace Implementation

In June 2022, employee in Columbus, saved a customer’s life using abdominal thrusts. This real-world example shows why choking response should be part of workplace first aid training.

Key measures to put in place:

• Display choking response posters in eating areas and break rooms.
• Organise practical training sessions with certified instructors.
• Keep emergency response protocols updated.
• Record all choking incidents and responses.
• Schedule regular training refreshers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these errors during choking emergencies:

• Placing thrusts too high or low on the abdomen.
• Using insufficient force during the abdominal thrusts.
• Performing the abdominal thrusts on someone who can still cough effectively.
• Delaying the call to emergency services.
• Misplacing hands when assisting an infant.

5. Burn Care and Treatment

Quick and appropriate action can significantly reduce the damage caused by burns, which make up 5% of workplace injuries – 70% of these involve hands and arms. Knowing the types of burns that occur in the workplace is key to responding effectively.

Types of Workplace Burns

Burn Type	Common Sources
Thermal	Hot surfaces, steam, flames
Chemical	Corrosive substances
Electrical	Live wires, equipment

• Thermal burns cause visible skin damage like redness.
• Chemical burns continue to harm tissue until properly neutralised.
• Electrical burns may result in hidden internal injuries, making them especially dangerous.

Assessing Burn Severity

After identifying the type of burn, evaluate its severity using the rule of nines. This method divides the body into sections, each representing 9% of the total surface area. Seek immediate medical care if:

• Burns cover more than 10% of the body
• Burns occur on the face, hands, feet or genitals
• Electrical burns are present, due to possible internal injuries

Immediate Response Protocol

Thermal Burns:

• Move the person away from the heat source.
• Run cool water over the burn for at least 20 minutes.
• Remove jewelry and loose clothing near the area.
• Cover the burn with sterile gauze.
• Watch for signs of shock.

Chemical Burns:

• Rinse the affected area with cool water for at least 20 minutes.
• Remove contaminated clothing while continuing to flush the area.
• Check the MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) for neutralisation steps.
• Get medical help immediately.

Essential First Aid Kit Components

Every workplace should have a burn care kit that includes:

• Sterile gauze in multiple sizes
• Non-stick dressings
• Burn gel
• Clean cloths for cooling burns
• Disposable gloves
• Saline solution
• Burn blankets

Real-World Example

In June 2022, a worker at ABC Manufacturing suffered a partial thickness burn from hot metal splatter. The first aid team acted quickly, cooling the burn with running water for 15 minutes and applying a sterile non-stick dressing. Their swift response cut the worker’s recovery time from 4 weeks to 2 weeks.

Critical Mistakes to Avoid

• Never apply ice directly to burns.
• Avoid using butter, oils, or home remedies.
• Do not remove clothing stuck to the burn.
• Leave blisters intact – don’t pop them.
• Always seek medical care for severe burns without delay.
• Don’t underestimate small burns that are deep.

Prevention and Training

To reduce burn injuries, workplaces should provide regular first aid training that includes:

• Hands-on sessions with certified instructors
• Scenario-based exercises tailored to workplace risks
• Clear, step-by-step protocols for each burn type
• Periodic skill refreshers
• Convenient placement of burn care supplies

Well-executed burn care not only minimises injury but also strengthens workplace safety practices. Even small burns can become serious without prompt treatment^[8].

6. Broken Bone and Sprain Care

Musculoskeletal injuries make up 30% of workplace incidents that require time off work. Quick identification and proper care are key to better recovery.

How to Tell Fractures from Sprains

Injury Type	Key Symptoms	Response
Fractures	Severe pain, visible deformity, grinding sensation	Immobilise immediately, seek emergency care
Sprains	Swelling, limited motion, possible popping sound	Follow the RICE method, consult a doctor
Open Fractures	Bone protrusion, bleeding	Control bleeding, get urgent medical help

Immediate Care Steps

For different injuries, use these immobilisation tips:

Arm Injuries: Use a sling to support the arm, immobilise above and below the injury, and remove any jewelry to prevent complications.

Leg Injuries: Keep the person still, apply rigid supports along the leg, and pad bony areas to minimise discomfort.

The RICE Method for Sprains

The RICE method is a simple and effective way to manage sprains:

• Rest: Stop using the injured area immediately.
• Ice: Use cold packs for 15–20 minutes every 2–3 hours.
• Compression: Wrap the area with elastic bandages, but not too tightly.
• Elevation: Raise the injured area above heart level to reduce swelling.

Must-Have First Aid Supplies

A well-equipped workplace first aid kit should include:

• Sterile gauze in various sizes
• Triangular bandages for slings
• Cold packs or instant cold compresses
• SAM splints for versatile support
• Elastic compression wraps

These items are crucial for effective first aid, as shown in the following example.

Real-Life Example

A manufacturing plant in Ohio reduced lost workdays by 40% and saved about £130,000 in productivity costs after introducing a focused training program for handling musculoskeletal injuries.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Never try to realign or “set” a suspected fracture.
• Don’t apply heat to a fresh sprain – it can worsen swelling.
• Always address numbness or tingling; ignoring it can lead to serious complications.

Preventing Injuries at Work

While avoiding mistakes is important, prevention is even better. The average recovery time for sprains and strains is 12 days. Reduce risks with these safety measures:

• Conduct regular hazard assessments.
• Train employees on proper lifting techniques.
• Ensure adequate lighting throughout the workplace.
• Apply non-slip treatments to floors.
• Keep walkways clear of obstacles.

For suspected spinal injuries, it’s critical to keep the person still and wait for professional medical help.

7. Spotting Common Medical Emergencies

Recognising the signs of medical emergencies quickly can save lives. In fact, for some conditions, every minute of delay can reduce survival chances by 7–10%. Knowing how to identify and respond to these situations is a key part of maintaining workplace safety.

Critical Signs of Major Emergencies

Emergency Type	Key Signs	Immediate Action
Heart Attack	Chest pressure, arm/jaw pain, shortness of breath, cold sweat	Call emergency services, help the person rest, and give aspirin if allowed
Stroke (FAST)	Face drooping, arm weakness, speech difficulty	Note when symptoms started and call emergency services
Severe Allergic Reaction	Difficulty breathing, throat swelling, widespread hives	Use an epinephrine auto-injector if available and call emergency services
Diabetic Emergency	Confusion, sweating, weakness (low blood sugar) or extreme thirst with fruity breath (high blood sugar)	Provide a fast-acting sugar source if conscious; call emergency services if unconscious

Below, you’ll find more details on how to recognise and respond to these emergencies effectively.

Heart Attack Recognition

While chest pain is a common symptom, women may experience less typical signs such as nausea, extreme fatigue, dizziness, or pain in the back or jaw. Always call emergency services immediately – never attempt to transport the person yourself.

Stroke Response: The FAST Method

Stroke symptoms require immediate attention. The FAST method simplifies recognition:

• F (Face): Ask the person to smile; look for one side drooping.
• A (Arms): Have them lift both arms; check for one arm drifting downward.
• S (Speech): Ask them to repeat a simple phrase; listen for slurred or strange speech.
• T (Time): Note the time symptoms began and call emergency services immediately.

If treated within three hours, the risk of long-term disability can be reduced by 30%.

Seizure Management

If someone is having a seizure, focus on keeping them safe:

• Remove objects nearby to prevent injury.
• Protect their head but avoid restraining them.
• Never put anything in their mouth.
• Time the seizure.

Call emergency services if the seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes, the person has multiple seizures, is injured, or if it’s their first seizure.

Heat-Related Emergencies

Heat-related conditions can escalate quickly, so it’s vital to know the warning signs:

• Heat Exhaustion: Symptoms include heavy sweating, cool/pale skin, dizziness, and a fast, weak pulse.
• Heat Stroke: Look for hot, red skin, confusion, loss of consciousness, and a body temperature of 103°F or higher.

For heat stroke, move the person to a cool place immediately and call emergency services.

Workplace Emergency Preparedness

Being prepared for medical emergencies is just as important as having plans for injuries. Make sure your workplace includes:

• An Automated External Defibrillator (AED).
• Emergency contact numbers.
• A list of employees with known medical conditions.
• First aid supplies tailored to workplace risks.

How to Set Up First Aid Training

Creating a solid first aid training program requires careful planning and execution. OSHA regulations emphasise the importance of having accessible first aid supplies and trained personnel on-site ^[6].

Assessing Training Needs

Start by conducting a workplace hazard assessment. This helps identify:

• The number of first aiders needed
• Common injury risks specific to your workplace
• The equipment and supplies required
• Key training modules to focus on

This evaluation shapes the foundation of your training program.

Building an Effective Program

Make sure your program covers the essentials. Below are some core components:

Training Component	Frequency	Key Elements
Initial Certification	New employees	Basic life support, emergency assessment, wound care
CPR/AED Refresher	Every 2 years	Hands-on practice, updated techniques
General First Aid	Annually	Situational training, proper equipment usage
Emergency Response	Regular drills	Team coordination, communication protocols

Using Digital Tools

Digital platforms can simplify training management. For example, the ProTrainings platform helps you:

• Track certification expiration dates
• Maintain attendance records
• Conduct skills evaluations
• Keep compliance documentation organised

Choosing the Right Training Provider

Work with accredited providers like ProTrainings Europe. They offer flexible options, including video modules, blended learning, on-site training, weekly refreshers, and instant certification tracking.

Measuring Success

Evaluate your program’s effectiveness by tracking:

1. Faster response times during emergency drills
2. Fewer severe workplace incidents
3. Increased employee confidence in handling emergencies
4. Adherence to regulatory standards

To highlight the importance of first aid, private industry recorded 2.8 million nonfatal workplace injuries in 2022.

Adapting for Remote Teams

For remote employees, tailor your program with options like:

• Virtual instructor-led sessions
• Personal first aid kits shipped to participants
• Video demonstrations for self-paced learning
• Virtual reality simulations for hands-on practice

Conclusion

First aid preparedness at work is about more than meeting regulations – it’s about protecting employees and ensuring the company can handle emergencies effectively. With a worker getting injured every 7 seconds, it’s clear that being ready to respond is crucial.

Workplaces with AED devices and CPR-trained staff have seen survival rates for cardiac arrest victims climb to as high as 60%. On top of that, 25% of emergency room visits could be avoided with basic first aid. Training employees in first aid not only saves lives but also cuts down on unnecessary hospital trips.

Why First Aid Makes Business Sense

Investing in a solid first aid program provides real advantages:

• Quick responses can limit the severity of injuries
• Boosts employee confidence
• Strengthens overall workplace safety
• Can reduce insurance costs
• Keeps your workplace compliant with HSE standards.

Skills That Go Beyond the Office

First aid training doesn’t just benefit the workplace. These skills prepare employees to handle emergencies in their personal lives and communities as well. By equipping your team with these abilities, you’re not just protecting them – you’re contributing to a safer, more prepared community.

Regular training sessions and practice drills help ensure these skills stay sharp. Building a culture of readiness strengthens safety at every level.

FAQs

Is first aid training required by HSE?

HSE requires first aid training when there isn’t a nearby medical facility. In such cases, at least one employee per shift must be trained to provide first aid. Key points include:

• Construction and logging industries have stricter first aid training requirements.
• First aid supplies must always be easily accessible ^[1].

Now, let’s dive into a crucial aspect of first aid readiness.

What is the most important first aid skill?

The combination of CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) and AED (Automated External Defibrillator) use is considered the most vital first aid skill ^[2]. Here’s why:

• CPR significantly improves survival chances.
• Without defibrillation, survival rates drop by 7–10% for every minute that passes.

Organisations like the Health and Safety Executive recommend refresher training every years to ensure teams stay prepared and capable of saving lives. This emphasises the importance of maintaining strong emergency response readiness.