(Version one 1.7.98)
Policy Reference
This policy document refers to the following aims and objectives outlined in the Council's general statement of Health & Safety policy:-
a) The provision of such information, instruction, training and supervision as is necessary to ensure so far as is reasonably practicable the health and safety at work of its employees.
b) Identifying and assessing the risks associated with all activities of the Council with the aim of eliminating or controlling the risks, so far as is reasonably practicable.
Arrangements for Providing First-Aid Equipment and Facilities
The Council will ensure that adequate equipment and facilities are provided to enable first-aid to be rendered to its employees if they are injured or become ill at work.
Each workplace will be assessed in relation to its size and location, the nature of the work undertaken and the number of employees to determine the appropriate provision of first-aid facilities.
Arrangements will also be made to ensure the replacement of useable items in first-aid boxes.
Provision of Suitable Persons
To ensure that a sufficient number of suitable persons are provided who are capable of rendering first-aid to its employees if they are injured or become ill at work, the Council through its delegated officers will:-
a) Assess all appropriate criteria for deciding adequate and appropriate provision of first- aiders and appointed persons (eg distribution of employees, nature of work, distance from outside medical facilities).
b) Identify and select suitable first-aiders and appointed persons.
c) Provide appropriate training, including refresher, to those employees identified as first- aiders and appointed persons to a standard approved by the Health and Safety Executive.
d) Ensure that first-aiders and appointed persons are aware, and capable of keeping such records as are required by legislation or good practice.
Provision of Information
To ensure that all employees are informed of the arrangements that have been made in connection with the provision of first-aid, including the location of equipment, facilities and personnel, the Council through its delegated officers will:-
a) Ensure that as part of any induction training given, employees are told of the location of first-aid equipment, personnel and facilities.
b) Ensure that when any employee moves to another location that they are told where first-aid personnel, equipment and facilities are located, if different from their previous place of work.
c) Ensure that notices are posted in conspicuous positions in all workplaces giving the locations of first-aid equipment, facilities and the name(s) and locations(s) of the personnel concerned.
Guidance
Guidance will be issued regarding the following aspects of this policy.
a) Selection and role of first-aiders and appointed persons.
b) First-aid training.
c) Procedural arrangements.
d) First-aid boxes and equipment.
e) Maintaining records and payment of allowances.
Legal Reference
The arrangements in this policy outline the provisions the Council will make to comply with the relevant requirements of The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act, 1974 and the Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations, 1981.