{{org_field_logo}}

{{org_field_name}}

Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

---

First Aid at Work

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to establish a structured approach to first aid provision at {{org_field_name}}, ensuring that all employees, service users, and visitors receive prompt, safe, and effective first aid treatment in the event of an injury, illness, or medical emergency.

This policy also ensures compliance with CIW regulations, The Regulation and Inspection of Social Care (Wales) Act 2016, and the Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981. A proper first aid system not only protects the well-being of individuals within our care but also ensures that our care home operates in line with legal requirements and best practices in health and safety.

Our objectives under this policy include:

• Ensuring that all first aid needs are adequately met in compliance with the law.
• Reducing risks and response times during medical emergencies.
• Ensuring that all staff are trained and competent in first aid procedures.
• Maintaining an efficient first aid system, including staff training, equipment maintenance, and proper documentation.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

• All employees, including permanent, temporary, and agency staff, who are responsible for the care and safety of service users.
• All service users, ensuring that they receive appropriate first aid care tailored to their individual needs.
• All visitors, including relatives, contractors, and external professionals, who may require first aid intervention while on the premises.

This policy covers all first aid-related activities, including:

• Immediate response to minor and major injuries.
• Management of medical emergencies (e.g., cardiac arrests, choking incidents, or falls).
• Provision and maintenance of first aid kits and equipment.
• First aid training requirements for staff.
• Recording, reporting, and reviewing all first aid incidents.

3. Legal and Regulatory Framework

This policy aligns with:

• The Regulation and Inspection of Social Care (Wales) Act 2016.
• The Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981.
• The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, which mandates employers to provide adequate first aid facilities and trained personnel.
• The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, which requires risk assessments to determine first aid needs.
• CIW regulatory framework, ensuring that care providers maintain a safe and responsive care environment.
• The Social Services and Well-being (Wales) Act 2014, which promotes a person-centred approach to care.
• The Safeguarding Policy of {{org_field_name}}, ensuring that first aid practices support the protection of vulnerable individuals.

4. First Aid Arrangements

4.1 Appointment of First Aiders

• {{org_field_name}} ensures that a sufficient number of trained first aiders are present on-site at all times to provide immediate assistance in medical emergencies.
• A First Aid Lead is appointed to oversee first aid provision, compliance, and staff training.
• A publicly available list of trained first aiders is displayed at key locations, including staff rooms, the reception area, and communal spaces.
• A rota system is in place to ensure there is at least one first aider on duty per shift.

4.2 First Aid Training

• All designated first aiders must complete an accredited First Aid at Work (FAW) or Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) training course.
• Training must be refreshed every three years, in line with Health and Safety Executive (HSE) guidelines.
• Additional specialist training is provided for:
  • Choking incidents, particularly for service users with swallowing difficulties.
  • Cardiac arrests, including the use of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs).
  • Handling medical emergencies involving individuals with dementia or complex needs.

4.3 First Aid Equipment and Facilities

• Fully stocked first aid kits are maintained in key locations:
  • Reception and office areas.
  • Medication storage rooms.
  • Communal spaces such as lounges and dining areas.
  • Staff rooms for use in case of workplace injuries.
• Each first aid kit is checked monthly to ensure compliance with British Standard BS 8599-1.
• A defibrillator (AED) is available and all staff are trained to use it.

4.4 First Aid Procedures

4.4.1 Responding to an Incident

1. Assess the safety of the scene before approaching the injured or ill person.
2. Provide immediate first aid assistance, following training protocols.
3. Call 999 if the incident requires emergency medical intervention.
4. Inform a senior staff member and ensure appropriate follow-up care.
5. Record the incident in the Accident and Incident Log.

4.4.2 Recording and Reporting First Aid Incidents

• All first aid incidents must be logged in the Accident and Incident Book.
• Serious injuries (e.g., fractures, head injuries, or unconsciousness) must be reported to CIW under the Notification of Other Incidents Policy.
• If required, the Registered Manager will report the incident to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) under RIDDOR (Reporting of Injuries, Diseases, and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 2013).

4.4.3 Emergency Response for Service Users

• When a service user requires first aid, staff must consult their care plan for pre-existing conditions, allergies, and resuscitation orders.
• If hospitalisation is required, a key worker or senior staff member must accompany the service user.
• Family members must be informed immediately.

4.5 Infection Prevention and Control in First Aid

• First aiders must wear disposable gloves, aprons, and masks when administering first aid.
• Used bandages, gloves, and medical waste must be disposed of in clinical waste bins.
• Cleaning and disinfection procedures must be followed after any bodily fluid spills.

5. Related Policies

This policy must be read alongside the following policies:

• Health and Safety at Work Policy.
• Infection Prevention and Control Policy.
• Risk Management and Assessment Policy.
• Medication Management and Administration Policy.
• Management of Accidents, Incidents, and Near Misses Policy.
• Notification of Other Incidents Policy.
• Safeguarding Adults from Abuse and Improper Treatment Policy.

6. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if legislation, regulatory requirements, or operational needs change. Regular audits and feedback from staff and service users will inform any updates.

---

Responsible Person: {{org_field_registered_manager_first_name}} {{org_field_registered_manager_last_name}}
Reviewed on: {{last_update_date}}
Next Review Date: {{next_review_date}}
Copyright © {{current_year}} – {{org_field_name}}. All rights reserved.