ABSTRACT
Giving first aid to injured persons once an accident has occurred is of vital importance. It can mean the prevention of further injury, or even death. First aid has two functions. First, it provides treatment for the purpose of preserving life and minimising the consequences of injury or illness until medical help (from a doctor or nurse) can be obtained. Second, it provides treatment of minor injuries which would otherwise receive no treatment, or which do not need the help of a medical practitioner or nurse. This definition of first aid is included in Regulation 2. To ensure the appropriate steps have been taken to provide adequate facilities (trained personnel as well as equipment) in all places of work, the Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations were implemented on 1 July 1982. They replaced several pieces of legislation which imposed specific requirements for specific places of work, and set out rules covering all places of work.
