A 2024 study by St John Ambulance1 found that one in two people (49%) would feel panicked if they encountered a health emergency, due to a lack of training. With a staggering 59,219 RIDDOR-reported (Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations) injuries in 2024-2025 alone2, there is no better time to prepare your employees with health and safety training.
However, if there is no time, here is a quick guide to immediate emergency response in the workplace.
If you come across an emergency in the workplace, the first response should always be to assess the situation. Take note of any casualties, onlookers, and surroundings (wires, bags, furniture, etc.) that may be a risk.
If needed, remind yourself of where the nearest AEDs, first aid kits, and phone systems are in the building. This means you can call for help and respond to an incident instantly, without having to ask for or look for facilities.
The best way to assess a situation, is using the DRSABC method, which we explained in our previous blog. You can find out more here.
When a casualty becomes unconscious, the most important thing is resuscitation. Regardless of your training, and experience, any attempt at CPR is better than none. That being said, if there is a dedicated first aider, or someone with more experience, it is best to let them perform any attempts at recovery, while you call for the emergency services.
If health and safety in the workplace is something that concerns you, our expert trainers can provide the training your employees need to stay informed and prepared for when the unexpected happens. You can book your training here.
Whilst it is a legal requirement in the UK to have a dedicated first responder in the workplace, giving all of your staff equal opportunities to educate themselves in emergency first aid will be extremely beneficial.
