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.
For compliance context, see Workplace First Aid Kit Requirements and First Aid Kits vs Training.
| 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 |
Helpful reads: BS 8599 Standards, First Aid Signage Requirements, Refills Guide, and Storage Guide.
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.
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