When it comes to workplace safety, first aid compliance is a non-negotiable element of ensuring employees' well-being. For Work Health and Safety (WHS) officers, staying informed about first aid regulations and best practices is essential. Let’s explore everything you need to know to ensure your workplace is not only compliant but also properly prepared to respond to any incidents.
Understanding first aid compliance in Australia
Under Australian WHS regulations, workplaces are required to provide adequate first aid facilities, equipment, and trained personnel. What "adequate" looks like will depend on your workplace's size, nature, and risk level. A thorough first aid audit is a great starting point to determine if your workplace meets compliance standards.
Low-Risk vs High-Risk Workplaces
A major factor in first aid compliance is understanding the type of workplace you’re managing:
What is a low-risk workplace?
A low-risk workplace is one where workers aren’t exposed to significant hazards that could lead to serious injury or illness. These workplaces often include offices, libraries, or retail shops. In these environments, potential injuries might be limited to minor cuts, bruises, or occasional slips.
What is a high-risk workplace?
High-risk workplaces, on the other hand, are those where workers face hazards that could lead to serious injury or illness. Think construction sites, manufacturing plants, mining operations, warehousing, or trades. The nature of injuries here could range from machinery accidents to chemical exposure, making robust first aid measures essential.
Knowing your workplace type determines what first aid equipment, facilities, and training your team requires. Low-risk workplaces might only need basic first aid kits, while high-risk environments require larger, more comprehensive kits, and potentially defibrillators, first aid rooms etc
Your quick guide of the essentials for first aid compliance
#1. First Aid Kits:
Ensure your kits are suited to your workplace risk level. Low-risk workplaces may need compact kits, while high-risk workplaces demand extensive supplies
Once we have identified the right kit, there are 3 key things you need to consider;
- You need at least 1 kit for every second level of multistorey workplaces.
- You need at least 1 kit for every separate standalone building.
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And each kit must be within 1 minutes walking distance from wherever people are on site.
#2. Defibrillators (AEDs):
While defibrillators aren’t legally mandated in Australia, they are highly recommended, especially in high-risk settings. An AED can save lives during cardiac emergencies, making it a critical addition to your first aid arsenal.
#3. First Aid Rooms:
High-risk workplaces or large sites with significant staff numbers may need a dedicated first aid room. This space should be equipped with a stretcher, sink, and easy access to first aid kits and emergency contact information.
Workplaces with the following should have a dedicated first aid room
- 200+ workers in a low-risk environment
- 100+ workers in a high-risk environment
#4. Training:
Ensure your team includes trained first aid officers. The number of officers required depends on your workplace size and risk level. Regular refresher courses will keep their skills sharp and up-to-date.
- Low-risk workplaces: 1 trained first aider per 50 workers
- High-risk workplaces: 1 trained first aider per 25 workers
- Remote workplaces: 1 trained first aider per 10 workers
#5. Signage:
Well-recognised first aid signage to ensure employees can easily locate first aid stations.
#6. Additional kits / stations:
Eyewash stations, burns stations and sharps & biohazard stations for workplaces that have those risks present.
Conducting a first aid audit
An audit is your chance to cross-check your compliance and preparedness. This is where FastAid’s First Aid Journey Flowchart becomes a valuable resource. Our flowchart guides you step-by-step through selecting the right first aid kits and defibrillators, with things to consider for first aid room setups. It’s the ultimate tool to help you apply the compliance process to your existing first aid setup.
Some questions to consider:
- Are your first aid kits fully stocked and in good condition?
- Are your kits located in easily accessible areas?
- Does your workplace have the necessary signage and information about emergency contacts?
Remember, compliance isn’t just about ticking boxes—it’s about creating a safer, more confident environment for everyone.
Navigating first aid compliance in Australia doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you’re managing a small office or a bustling construction site, the right tools, training, and planning make all the difference. Our flagship first aid kit Easy-Refill is a game-changer for work place first aid. Audit and refill your kit in under 3 minutes 24/7 - save time and stay compliant.
If you’re unsure where to start or of your compliance obligations, we're here to help! Reach out to the team today and we're onto it.