Three First Aid tips to keep your workplace safe

Tax time isn’t only about getting your finances in order, it’s also the perfect time to reassess your workplace first aid practices. 

As an employer, it’s your responsibility to create a safe workplace for your staff. Not sure if your business is prepared for a medical emergency? Ask yourself these questions:

• Do you have a First Aid kit?
• When was the last time someone checked the First Aid kit to make sure items haven’t expired or are running low?
• Do you or any of your staff have recent First Aid Training?
• Do you have a defibrillator? If so, does your staff know how to use it?

If you answered no or are unsure, your workplace might not be as safe as you think. With the end of the financial year approaching, now is the time to invest in workplace safety. 

Why? Not only are you creating a safer work environment for employees, but there are  tax benefits as well. 

1. Defibrillators are an instant tax write off for eligible businesses*. 

An Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is a portable electronic device that anyone can use to shock the heart back into its correct rhythm, when someone is experiencing a cardiac arrest. 

Eligible businesses can claim an immediate tax deduction for the cost of purchasing an AED during the year the asset is first used or installed.

For every minute that passes without CPR and defibrillation, the person’s survival drops by 7-10 per cent. To give someone the best chance of survival, CPR and defibrillation should be provided as soon as possible. That’s why it’s recommended to have at least one AED on every floor unless you’re in a small office building.

2. First Aid kits are essential for workplace safety

First Aid requirements will vary between workplaces, depending on the occupation, types of hazards, workplace size and location, as well as the number of employees.

As a starting point it’s important employers should have a basic first aid kit on hand. There are a number of first aid kits to suit the needs of every business. 

The First Response Kit is St John WA’s comprehensive kit that has components individually packaged for easy identification and quick access. This includes items such as cold packs, dressings, emergency blankets, and bandages. 

Medium Risk Workplace Kits (portable and wall mountable) are recommended for low-medium risk workplaces with 25-100 people.

3. Empower your staff with first aid training

First Aid Courses will empower your staff to have the confidence to know how to act in an emergency situation. These courses don’t only cover physical injuries in the workplace, they also help staff upskill in mental health care and support.

The Provide First Aid Course provides staff general knowledge and skills so that they can perform first aid and basic life support procedures, should they ever need to assist in a workplace first aid emergency.

Anyone who manages people or is responsible for a team should undertake a Mental Health First Aid Course. During this course, you’ll learn how to recognise the signs of mental health issues and the crucial first steps in helping someone seek professional ongoing care.

Protect your workplace this EOFY

There are plenty of reasons to invest in your workplace safety this EOFY. St John WA has a range of products and defibrillator bundles on sale*, take advantage of these sales until the 30th of June 2023. *Terms and conditions apply. Visit stjohnwa.com.au/eofy.