We provide our operatives and staff with a personal first aid kit containing just 10 plasters, 10 anti bac wipes and eye wash and rely on common sense instead of a formal 1 day emergency first aid training course. What does your organsiation do?

Mark - It really depends on the nature of the work and other factors relating to lone working. It can be too hazardous work or surely lone working would not be an option? It doesn't have to be an accredited course ( If they are truly lone working then they in effect become an appointed person) but there is still the duty to provide adequate training. You cannot rely on 'common sense'. I assume you have also considered communciations as part of the lone working arrangements. can they raise help if they require more help than they can give themselves? Depending on numbers it could be cost effective to do group training or possibly some of the interactive package available. If cost is not such an issue they of course soem of the more formal courses may be an option. Hope this helps

As already indicated, whether a lone worker should be provided with first aid training will depend on the environment and hazards in which they will, or may come into contact with. However, as a general rule there is no need to provide first aid training for lone workers. First aid kit and a means of contacting someone in an emergency are the principal controls for lone workers.