First Aid Response for Insurance
A procedure for responding to workplace injuries and medical emergencies, including first aid administration, escalation, and documentation in accordance with WHS requirements.
Purpose
To ensure prompt and appropriate first aid is provided to injured or ill workers, minimise the severity of injuries, and comply with workplace first aid obligations under WHS regulations.
Scope
Applies to all workplace injuries, illnesses, and medical emergencies involving workers, contractors, and visitors. Covers first aid response, escalation to emergency services, and post-incident documentation.
Prerequisites
- Adequate number of trained first aiders for the workplace size and risk level
- First aid kits stocked and maintained in accessible locations
- Emergency contact numbers posted — 000, poison information, nearest hospital
- First aid procedures and location maps displayed in the workplace
Aligns with ASIC regulatory requirements, General Insurance Code of Practice, and AFSL obligations. Includes audit trail provisions.
Step-by-Step Procedure
Assess the Scene for Safety
Before approaching the casualty, assess the scene for ongoing hazards that could endanger the first aider or others.
- 1.1Check for hazards — electrical, chemical, falling objects, traffic
- 1.2Do not enter the scene if it is unsafe — call emergency services
- 1.3If safe, approach the casualty and introduce yourself
- Remember DRSABCD — Danger, Response, Send for help, Airway, Breathing, CPR, Defibrillation
Assess the Casualty
Check the casualty for responsiveness, breathing, and signs of life-threatening conditions. Determine the severity and type of injury or illness.
- 2.1Check for a response — talk to and gently touch the casualty
- 2.2If unresponsive, check airway and breathing
- 2.3Look for life-threatening bleeding, chest injuries, or signs of shock
- 2.4Assess for fractures, burns, or other injuries
Call for Emergency Assistance if Required
If the injury or illness is serious, call 000 for an ambulance. Provide clear information about the location, number of casualties, and nature of injuries.
- 3.1Call 000 or delegate someone to call on your behalf
- 3.2State the exact location, including building, floor, and access point
- 3.3Describe the nature of injuries and number of casualties
- 3.4Follow any instructions given by the emergency operator
- 3.5Send someone to meet the ambulance and guide them to the casualty
Administer First Aid
Provide appropriate first aid treatment within the scope of your training. Prioritise life-threatening conditions.
- 4.1Control severe bleeding with direct pressure and dressings
- 4.2If the casualty is not breathing, commence CPR and use an AED if available
- 4.3Treat burns, fractures, or other injuries as per first aid training
- 4.4Keep the casualty comfortable and reassured
- 4.5Use disposable gloves and follow infection control procedures
- Only provide treatment within the scope of your training — do not exceed your qualifications
Hand Over to Emergency Services
When emergency services arrive, provide a clear handover including the nature of the injury, treatment provided, and any changes in the casualty's condition.
- 5.1Brief paramedics on what happened, injuries found, and treatment given
- 5.2Provide information on any medications or medical conditions if known
- 5.3Assist with transfer to the ambulance if requested
Notify the Supervisor and WHS Officer
Inform the relevant supervisor and WHS officer of the incident. Initiate the incident reporting process.
- 6.1Notify the immediate supervisor of the incident and its outcome
- 6.2Contact the WHS officer for serious injuries
- 6.3Determine if the incident is notifiable under the WHS Act
Complete the First Aid Record
Document all details of the first aid treatment provided in the first aid register. This forms part of the incident record.
- 7.1Record the date, time, and location of the incident
- 7.2Document the casualty's name, nature of injury or illness, and treatment provided
- 7.3Note the name of the first aider and any witnesses
- 7.4Record the outcome — returned to work, sent to hospital, ambulance called
Replenish First Aid Supplies
After responding to an incident, check and replenish any first aid supplies that were used. Report any equipment issues.
- 8.1Replace used dressings, gloves, and other consumables
- 8.2Check the AED pads and battery status if the device was used
- 8.3Report any damaged or missing equipment to the first aid coordinator
Quality Checkpoints
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Expected Outcomes
Time from incident notification to first aid being administered, targeting under 3 minutes in standard workplaces
Percentage of first aid treatments that are documented in the first aid register, targeting 100%
Ratio of trained first aiders to workers, meeting or exceeding the requirements for the workplace risk level
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications do workplace first aiders need?
Workplace first aiders must hold a current nationally recognised first aid qualification — HLTAID011 Provide First Aid. This includes CPR (HLTAID009) which must be renewed annually, while the full first aid certificate is valid for three years.
How many first aiders does a workplace need?
The number depends on the workplace size, risk level, and location. As a guide, low-risk workplaces need one first aider per 50 workers, while high-risk workplaces need one per 25 workers. Remote locations require additional first aiders and enhanced supplies.
Are first aiders legally protected when providing first aid?
Yes. All Australian states and territories have Good Samaritan legislation that protects first aiders who provide assistance in good faith and without recklessness from civil liability. Workplace first aiders acting within their training are covered by this protection.
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