Risk management
The risk management process can be used to decide what first aid equipment, facilities and people are needed in a workplace to respond to illness or injury, including the risk of exposure to biological hazards, blood and body substances.
Employers and self-employed people should consider the following steps:
- identify the hazards that may cause an injury or illness
- assess the risk, type and extent of work injuries and work caused illnesses that may occur
- decide on the appropriate first aid equipment, facilities, services (including trained people) to address the injuries or illnesses that may occur such as:
- a workplace with a large physical area may need first aid to be available in more than one location
- a workplace which is some distance from medical facilities and/or has access problems may need people with advanced first aid training
- implement the chosen first aid equipment facilities and services to effectively manage the injuries and illnesses
- monitor and review first aid equipment facilities and services to ensure they continue to meet requirements
More information on the basic steps in the risk management process for first aid is provided in the First Aid Advisory Standard 2004 (now known as a Code of Practice).
Guidance is also provided in the Risk Management Code of Practice 2007.
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