Business Update

First Aid for Workplaces - A Good Practice Guide

A quick first aid response can mean the difference between life and death, or can reduce the severity of the injury. First aid can also help protect businesses, by reducing the impact an accident can have on productivity and the cost of employees taking leave.

There is also a legal requirement for workplaces to take all practicable steps to provide first aid facilities under the Health and Safety in Employment Regulations 1995, and to have procedures for dealing with emergencies under the Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992 (HSE Act).

A New Guide, launched by the Department of Labour, First Aid for Workplaces - a Good Practice Guide, helps identify what first aid is needed in individual workplaces. It was developed following consultation from a wide range of industry experts.

It takes account of recent regulatory changes, including the withdrawal of the Factories and Commercial Premises (First Aid) Regulations 1985. It replaces the Department of Labour's previous guide Guidance Notes on Providing First Aid Equipment, Facilities and Training (2001).

This guide will be useful to employers, the self-employed, and people who hire contractors. It will also be useful to first aiders, first aid trainers and organisations that supply or maintain first aid equipment. For more information visit www.dol.govt.nz

This article has been provided by the Department of Labour. For more information visit their website.