Clause 20 of the OHS Regulation 2001 sets out certain minimum standards for first aid, however no two workplaces are exactly the same (See FAQ re minimum requirements).

First aid facilities must be adequate for the immediate treatment of the injuries that might arise at the workplace.

The factors that will determine your best first aid plan depend upon the industry you operate in and the specific activities in your workplace.

To ensure adequate first aid provisions, employers must identify their potential problems, assess their requirements and consult with employees in the process.

Consider the type of work performed and the nature of the hazards

The type of work performed will influence the nature of hazards and the possible harmful consequences for employees. For example, employees in an office will have first aid requirements different from those in a manufacturing plant. Some areas within your workplace may have special needs for first aid facilities.

Identify potential injuries/illnesses, and likely causes

For example, possible injuries might include cuts, burns, sprains/strains, crush injuries or chemical poisoning. Generally these injuries require adequate first aid treatment.

Other considerations

• Number and distribution of employees and others in your workplace
• size and layout of the workplace
• location of the workplace (ie isolated).

Considering the above factors will help an employer determine the nature, and location of the first aid facilities and the number of trained first aid personnel that are required for that particular workplace.