How to Conduct a First Aid Audit (Step-by-Step UK Guide)

  • 4 min reading time

A first aid audit helps organisations check whether their arrangements are adequate, appropriate and working in practice. It goes beyond a simple checklist and focuses on how well first aid provision is planned, maintained and understood.

This guide explains how to carry out a structured first aid audit in a UK workplace.

This information is general guidance and does not replace professional legal advice.

What is a first aid audit?

A first aid audit is a systematic review of your first aid arrangements, including equipment, training, procedures and documentation.

It helps identify gaps and areas for improvement.

Why audits are important

  • Ensure provision remains suitable over time
  • Identify weaknesses before incidents occur
  • Support compliance with legal duties
  • Prepare for inspections

See First Aid Compliance for HSE Inspections.

Step 1: Review your needs assessment

Start by checking whether your first aid needs assessment is still valid and reflects current risks.

See HSE First Aid Needs Assessment.

Step 2: Check equipment and facilities

Inspect first aid kits and facilities to ensure they are:

  • Accessible and clearly located
  • Complete and in date
  • Appropriate for the environment

See How to Store First Aid Kits.

Step 3: Verify training and personnel

Check that:

  • Required first aiders are trained
  • Training is up to date
  • Coverage is sufficient across shifts

See Who Can Provide First Aid.

Step 4: Review procedures

Ensure that emergency procedures are clear and understood by staff.

See Emergency Response Plan.

Step 5: Check documentation

Verify that key documents are in place and up to date:

  • First aid policy
  • Needs assessment
  • Training records
  • Incident records

See First Aid Compliance Documents.

Step 6: Review incident records

Analyse incident data to identify patterns and potential improvements.

See Accident Reporting & Records.

Step 7: Identify gaps and actions

Document any issues and define clear actions to address them.

Example audit checklist

Area What to check
Assessment Up to date and relevant
Equipment Accessible and maintained
Training Valid and sufficient coverage
Procedures Clear and understood
Records Complete and accurate

Common audit findings

  • Outdated risk assessments
  • Missing or incomplete records
  • Insufficient training coverage
  • Poorly maintained equipment

How often should audits be carried out?

Audits should be conducted periodically and after significant changes, such as new activities, staff changes or incidents.

Why audits support compliance

A structured audit demonstrates that first aid provision is actively managed and reviewed, helping organisations maintain safe and effective arrangements.

First Aid Audits — FAQ

What is the purpose of a first aid audit?
To review whether first aid provision is adequate, appropriate and effective.
How often should audits be done?
Periodically and after significant changes or incidents.
Who should carry out an audit?
A competent person with knowledge of workplace safety and first aid arrangements.
What should be reviewed?
Equipment, training, procedures and documentation.
Do audits help with inspections?
Yes. They help identify issues before inspections take place.

 


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