Common Workplace First Aid Scenarios and How to Respond

  • 5 min reading time

Every workplace faces everyday risks — from minor cuts to sudden illness. Knowing how to respond quickly and safely can make all the difference. This guide covers common first aid situations in UK workplaces and what to do until professional help arrives.

Disclaimer: This article is for general awareness and does not replace certified first aid training.

Why Every Workplace Needs First Aid Knowledge

  • ✅ Quick, calm responses reduce severity of injuries and complications.
  • ✅ Builds staff confidence and safety awareness.
  • ✅ Supports duties under the Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981.

For compliance context, see Workplace First Aid Kit Requirements and First Aid Kits vs Training.

Common Workplace First Aid Scenarios

Scenario Common Causes What to Do (Basics) Kit Items Used
Cuts & Scrapes Tools, sharp edges, machinery Apply pressure to stop bleeding; clean; cover with plaster. Gauze, antiseptic wipes, plasters, gloves
Burns & Scalds Hot surfaces, liquids, steam, chemicals Cool under running water for 20 minutes; remove tight items; cover loosely. Burn gel/dressing, non-adherent pad, gloves
Eye Injuries Dust, debris, chemical splash Irrigate immediately with sterile eyewash; do not rub; seek help if persistent. Eye wash pods/bottle, eye pad
Sprains & Strains Lifting, slips, uneven flooring Rest; apply cold compress; elevate; compress if trained. Instant cold pack, crepe bandage
Nosebleeds Heat, exertion, minor trauma Sit forward; pinch soft part for 10 minutes; avoid tilting head back. Tissues/gauze, gloves
Minor Head Injuries Bumps, slips, low beams Cold compress; monitor for drowsiness, vomiting, severe headache; seek help if symptoms. Cold pack, bandage
Severe Bleeding Lacerations, machinery accidents Firm direct pressure; dress; call 999 if uncontrolled; treat for shock. Trauma dressing, gauze, gloves, foil blanket
Allergic Reactions Food, stings, latex Remove trigger; monitor breathing; use auto-injector if available/trained; call 999 if severe. Antihistamine (if available), auto-injector (casualty’s), gloves
Fainting/Dizziness Heat, dehydration, low blood sugar Lay down; raise legs; loosen tight clothing; reassure; monitor. Foil blanket, gloves
Electric Shock Faulty equipment, wet electrics Isolate power before touching; call 999; monitor airway, breathing, circulation. Gloves, AED access if required
Sudden Illness Asthma, diabetes, chest pain Call for help; assist with personal meds; keep comfortable; call 999 if serious. Casualty’s inhaler/meds, foil blanket

How to Prepare Your Team

  • Appoint and train first aiders; display names and contact details on signage.
  • Place complete kits in visible, accessible locations and signpost them clearly.
  • Run refresher training and drills; log incidents in your accident book.

Helpful reads: BS 8599 Standards, First Aid Signage Requirements, Refills Guide, and Storage Guide.

When to Call Emergency Services (999)

  • Severe or uncontrollable bleeding
  • Unconsciousness or abnormal breathing
  • Suspected heart attack, stroke, spinal or serious head injury
  • Severe burns, electric shock, breathing difficulties, anaphylaxis
  • When in doubt — call 999 and follow dispatcher instructions

Example Workplace Procedure (Short)

Incident: Warehouse worker cuts hand on packaging blade.

Response: First aider dons gloves, applies pressure, cleans and dresses wound, completes accident book entry, advises on signs to watch for, and restocks kit items used.

Workplace First Aid — FAQ

What are the most common first aid incidents in UK workplaces?
Minor cuts, burns, sprains, eye irritation, nosebleeds and fainting are common. Prepared teams also plan for severe bleeding, allergic reactions and sudden illness.
Who is responsible for first aid at work?
Employers must provide adequate equipment, facilities and trained personnel. Appointed first aiders handle immediate response and recordkeeping.
Do small offices need trained first aiders?
A risk assessment determines exact needs. Even low-risk offices should have someone responsible, a stocked kit and clear signage.
How often should first aid training be renewed?
Typically every 2–3 years, or sooner if your risks, procedures or personnel change.
What should I do if the kit runs out of supplies?
Restock immediately using your refill checklist, and review usage to see if additional kits or higher quantities are required.

 

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