What Is a First Aid Needs Assessment?
A first aid needs assessment is a systematic evaluation of the first aid requirements of your workplace, required under the Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981. It helps you determine the right level of first aid equipment, facilities and trained personnel for your specific circumstances.
Step 1: Assess Your Workforce
- Total number of employees
- Shift patterns and working hours
- Locations and distribution of staff across the site
- Employees who work remotely or travel
- Visitors, contractors and members of the public on site
Step 2: Identify Workplace Hazards
- Manual handling risks
- Hazardous substances (COSHH)
- Machinery and equipment risks
- Working at height
- Fire risks
- Electrical risks
- Lone working
Step 3: Consider Your Accident History
Review your accident book and RIDDOR reports to identify patterns and common injuries. This helps you understand what first aid treatment is most likely to be needed.
Step 4: Evaluate Location Factors
- Distance from the nearest hospital and emergency services
- Accessibility for ambulances
- Multi-site or multi-floor premises
Step 5: Determine First Aid Provision
Based on your assessment, determine:
- Number of first aiders required (EFAW or FAW trained)
- Whether an appointed person is sufficient
- First aid kit contents and locations
- Whether a first aid room is needed (for larger or higher-risk sites)
- Any additional equipment required (AED, burns kits, eye wash)
Step 6: Review and Update
Your first aid needs assessment should be reviewed:
- At least annually
- After any significant change to workforce, premises or hazards
- After any serious accident or incident
Book First Aid Training in Yorkshire
Livius Training can help you with your first aid needs assessment and provide the training you need. View first aid courses or call 01423 396780.
