Posted By Bob B
Can anyone suggest a minimum number of first aiders in a low risk environment e.g 2-3 people in an office (small company limited cash etc). Could a company get away with none or perhaps 1 appointed person? I've suggested their risk assessment should should show they will need at least 1.

The HSE will not give specific numbers, but the INDG214 (HSE's guidance on first aid) suggets 1 for groups lower than 50.

I just thought I would get other opinions on this.

Also, whilst on the subject, what is everone's opinions on numbers of qualified first aiders for mobile workers say 2 scenario's 1: sales reps (lone workers), or 2: maintenance engineers/ (either lone working or 2 in a van)

Thanks for your opinions

Bob

Posted By JonH
Hi Bob,

Just a thought with the small office - if it is in a managed/serviced office environment, there may be first aid provision provided by the managing company.
Are there any other business in the immediate vicinity who have a first aider that they would be willing to "share". (Co-operate and co-ordinate under the Management Regs 99). Some time ago I was at a company that shared the building with a bank. We provided first aid, and they looked after the fire equipment.

For what it costs to put people through a 1 day Appointed Persons first aid course, or even a half day basic life support course, it might be worth getting everyone done including the engineers etc. There are loads of options either in house or on open courses.

Regards Jon

Posted By David J Clayton
Bob B

What ever the outcome you conclude regarding the numbers you have, remember that this person/people will have holidays. In that sense one first aider would invariably mean two.

Good luck - David

Posted By Bob B
Thanks for the replies. They were pretty much as I thought. I did suggest to them that their risk assessment should highlight these matters.

I will forward these replies to the people I was discussing this with. I'm sure it will give them something to think about when they do their assessment.

As always, I appreciate that you are always willing to take time out to help us that are just starting out. It's amazing how much I learn from this forum.

Bob