Just how safe is the workplace? That’s a question responsible employers ask themselves each and every day. The battle to make the office, warehouse, construction site or factory safer for everyone is an ongoing one. Policy, assessment and training are constantly monitored and reviewed. Safety never stands still for long.
Poor health and safety is bad for business, bad for morale and bad for corporate reputation. Organisations must take all reasonable steps possible to protect their workers. However, even with robust safety systems in place things can sometimes still go wrong. And when they do people are grateful for the intervention of trained first aiders.
First aid at work is there just in case accidents happen. Everyone appreciates their colleagues who give up their time to train up and acquire these skills, so that the workplace is safer for every worker. They have the skills and experience to deal with minor problems and to hold the fort in the event of more serious accidents until professional paramedics arrive on the scene.
It’s vitally important to make sure that this provision is available. It’s impossible to predict when disaster will strike. If it does then first aiders are an invaluable resource to have on site.
Anyone can volunteer for first aid at work training. No previous knowledge is required. A good course will take a complete novice and give them the skills and confidence to tackle a whole range of workplace safety incidents. Hopefully their skills won’t need to be called on too often, but it’s reassuring to know that they are around just in case.
An investment in training like this can pay huge dividends. A safer workplace is better for everyone concerned. Make sure trained first aiders are readily available in each building and department. Their presence is vital.
For more information please visit – www.sja.org.uk/sja/training-courses/courses-for-the-workplace/first-aid/first-aid-at-work.aspx
