First Aid Room Requirements & Guidelines for UK Workplaces

Assessing the Need for a First Aid Room

While not mandatory for all businesses, employers should conduct a thorough first aid needs assessment to determine if a dedicated first aid room is necessary. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) provides guidance on scenarios where first aid rooms are recommended, such as:

• Workplaces engaging in high-risk activities, such as factories, construction sites, or laboratories.
• Large businesses employing more than 250 staff.
• Environments where employees are exposed to hazardous substances or operate dangerous machinery.

Key Considerations for First Aid Rooms

1. Central Location and Accessibility

The first aid room should be centrally located and easily accessible, including for stretchers. It must be clearly signposted and, if feasible, reserved exclusively for providing first aid.

2. Room Size and Amenities

According to HSE recommendations, the room should be spacious enough to accommodate an examination couch with sufficient space for personnel to work, a chair, and necessary equipment. The room should feature washable surfaces, adequate heating, ventilation, and lighting, and must be kept clean, tidy, and accessible at all times during work hours.

3. Proximity to Emergency Transportation

Position the first aid room as close as possible to the point of access for transportation to the hospital, ensuring swift medical response in emergencies.

4. Display of Information

A notice should be displayed on the first aid room door, indicating the names, locations, and contact details of first aiders, along with instructions on how to contact them when needed.

5. Necessary Equipment and Supplies

Based on the risk assessment, equip the first aid room with essential items, including:

• A sink with hot and cold running water, soap, and paper towels.
• Drinking water with disposable cups.
• A store of first aid materials.
• Foot-operated refuse containers lined with disposable yellow clinical waste bags.
• An examination or medical couch with waterproof protection, clean pillows, and blankets.
• A chair.
• A telephone or communication equipment.
• A record book for documenting incidents attended by first aiders.

Alternative Arrangements for First Aid Facilities

If a dedicated first aid room is not feasible, employers should ensure that adequate first aid facilities can be made available quickly when needed. This includes planning for a room that can be cleared in an emergency and prepared promptly for first aid purposes.