How to Prepare for an HSE First Aid Inspection (UK Workplace Guide)

  • 4 min reading time

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) may visit workplaces across the UK to check whether employers are meeting the Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981. A well-prepared inspection shows your business takes first aid seriously — protecting staff and avoiding potential enforcement action. This guide explains what inspectors look for, how to get ready, and which documents you’ll need on hand.

When and Why HSE Inspections Happen

HSE inspections are usually unannounced and may take place if:

  • ⚠️ There has been an accident or complaint.
  • 🏭 You operate in a high-risk industry (e.g. construction, manufacturing, logistics).
  • 📅 Routine inspection schedules include your sector or location.
  • 📋 Follow-up is required after a previous inspection or RIDDOR report.

The goal is not to catch employers out — it’s to ensure that staff can receive immediate and effective first aid at work.

What HSE Inspectors Will Check

Area Inspected What Inspectors Look For Supporting Evidence
First Aid Kits BS 8599-1 compliant, properly stocked, easily accessible, and checked regularly. Inspection logs, refill records, purchase receipts.
Appointed First Aiders Trained staff available at all times, with valid certificates. Training certificates, duty rota, attendance lists.
Policy & Procedures Written first aid policy outlining responsibilities and emergency steps. First aid policy document.
Signage & Communication Clear first aid posters and signage visible to staff and visitors. Photos of signage, staff awareness checks.
Accident Records Accident book (B1510) maintained and reviewed for trends. Completed accident reports, review logs.
Facilities & Equipment Dedicated first aid room or area (for larger workplaces). Room inspection checklist, maintenance logs.

How to Prepare Step-by-Step

  1. 1. Review your first aid policy and risk assessment.
    Ensure they are current, signed, and dated within the past 12 months.
  2. 2. Check all first aid kits.
    They must be fully stocked, BS 8599-1 compliant, and contain no expired items.
  3. 3. Verify first aider qualifications.
    Certificates should be up to date and staff rotas show adequate coverage across shifts.
  4. 4. Inspect your signage and information boards.
    All staff must know who the first aiders are and where to find kits.
  5. 5. Check your accident book.
    Entries should be complete, legible, and reviewed regularly for safety improvements.
  6. 6. Prepare supporting documents.
    Keep your first aid audit checklist and maintenance records ready for review.

Common Issues Found During Inspections

  • 🚫 Expired or incomplete first aid kits.
  • 🚫 No written policy or outdated risk assessment.
  • 🚫 Missing first aider details on noticeboards.
  • 🚫 Inaccessible or locked first aid kits.
  • 🚫 Accident book not available or incomplete.

What Happens After the Inspection

If the HSE inspector identifies any issues, they may issue:

  • 🔸 A verbal warning — for minor improvements.
  • 🔸 A written notice — requiring corrective action by a set date.
  • 🔸 A prohibition notice — for serious health and safety risks (rare in low-risk workplaces).

Most employers receive advice, not penalties, when they demonstrate cooperation and corrective action.

Maintaining Ongoing Compliance

After the inspection, continue to monitor and improve your workplace safety. You can do this by:

HSE First Aid Inspection — FAQ

Do all workplaces get HSE inspections?
No, inspections are usually risk-based. However, any business may be visited if an accident occurs or concerns are raised.
Can I refuse an HSE inspection?
No. Inspectors have the right to enter workplaces under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.
What should I do if I fail an inspection?
Act promptly on any improvement notices and keep records of your corrective actions. Future inspections will check progress.
Do small businesses get inspected?
Rarely, unless there is a reported incident or complaint. Still, small businesses must meet basic first aid requirements.
Should I keep inspection records?
Yes. Maintain all inspection and audit records for at least three years as evidence of compliance.

 

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