➤ 20 individually wrapped sterile adhesive dressings
(assorted sizes)
➤ Two sterile eye pads
➤ Four individually wrapped triangular bandages (preferably
sterile)
➤ Six safety pins
➤ Six medium sized (approximately 12 cm _ 12 cm)
individually wrapped sterile unmediated wound
dressings
➤ Two large (approximately 18 cm _ 18 cm) sterile individually
wrapped unmediated wound dressings
➤ One pair of disposable gloves.
There should be no medicines stored in any fi rst aid kit.
6.6.3 Staff
The Health and Safety Executive suggest that there are
two classes of competent person that should be in a
workplace; appointed persons and first aiders.
The role of an appointed person is to:
➤ Take charge when someone is injured or falls ill,
including calling an ambulance if required
➤ Look after the first aid equipment, e.g. restocking
the first aid box.
Appointed persons should not attempt to give first aid
for which they have not been trained, though short
emergency first aid training courses are available.
The role of a first aider is to be trained in administering
first aid at work; they should hold a current first
aid at work certificate. The training provider has to be
approved by the HSE. A first aider can undertake the
duties of an appointed person.
Assessing the level of provision
HSE provide guidance on how many appointed persons
and/or first aiders may be required in any specific circumstance.
The details in Table 6.2 are suggestions only –
they are not definitive nor are they a legal requirement.
It is for employers to assess their own first aid needs in
the light of their particular circumstances.
It should be borne in mind that both appointed
persons and first aiders should be available at all times.
Liaising with emergency and rescue services
The assessment of the need for first aid arrangements
will identify if any special procedures may be required to
deal with accidents or illnesses at work. In most cases
the local National Health Trust emergency service will
suffice. However, in some cases, for example in remote
areas or where there is a likelihood of an unusual rescue