An inspection or visit from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) or a local authority can be stressful, particularly if organisations are unsure what inspectors expect to see regarding first aid.
First aid is rarely inspected in isolation. Instead, it is reviewed as part of wider health and safety management. Understanding how inspections work helps organisations prepare confidently and avoid common issues.
This guide explains how to prepare for a first aid inspection or HSE visit in the UK, what inspectors typically look for, and how first aid fits into overall compliance.
Inspectors assess first aid because it reflects how well risks are understood and managed.
First aid provision helps demonstrate whether an organisation:
For inspectors, first aid is often a practical indicator of wider safety culture.
There is no single mandatory checklist used by inspectors.
Instead, inspectors usually assess whether first aid arrangements are suitable for the risks present. This approach aligns with risk-based duties explained in UK First Aid Law Explained.
Having documentation and evidence readily available makes this assessment easier.
During an inspection or visit, inspectors may review:
They may also speak to staff to assess awareness of first aid arrangements.
Risk assessment is central to inspection outcomes.
Inspectors often begin by asking:
Clear, up-to-date assessments help demonstrate that first aid decisions are reasoned and proportionate. A structured approach is explained in Workplace First Aid Risk Assessment (UK).
| Area reviewed | Well-prepared organisation | Common inspection concern |
|---|---|---|
| Risk assessment | Current and site-specific | Missing or outdated |
| First aid kits | Accessible and maintained | Blocked, incomplete or unclear |
| Roles and responsibilities | Clearly assigned | Unclear or informal |
| Review process | Documented and regular | No evidence of review |
Inspectors may physically check first aid equipment.
They often consider whether:
Accessibility is as important as kit contents, particularly in larger or changing workplaces.
Inspectors may ask:
Clear role definitions support consistent answers. Role distinctions are explained in Appointed First Aiders: Roles & Duties (UK).
Inspectors do not usually expect excessive paperwork.
However, they may reasonably ask to see:
Keeping basic documentation organised helps demonstrate oversight. Record keeping is explained in Accident Reporting & First Aid Records (UK).
Inspectors may assess whether first aid is supported at management level.
This can include:
First aid is often viewed as part of wider governance rather than a standalone task.
A proactive approach reduces the risk of issues being raised.
Organisations can prepare by:
This approach supports confidence during inspections and demonstrates reasonable management.
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