1. Purpose
Equra College London (“Equra”) provides appropriate first aid arrangements to support the health, safety and wellbeing of students, staff, contractors and visitors. This policy explains how first aid is managed, how to access help, and how first aid incidents are recorded.
2. Scope
This policy applies to:
- All Equra premises and teaching spaces
- Equra events and activities (including off-site activities where applicable)
- Visitors, contractors and anyone affected by Equra activity while on Equra premises
3. First aid arrangements
Equra will ensure that:
- Suitable first aid provision is available based on the environment and level of risk
- First aid resources are accessible and maintained
- First aid arrangements are communicated clearly to staff and students
- Incident reporting arrangements are in place
4. First aiders and responsibilities
4.1 Health and Safety Lead
- Ensures first aid arrangements are appropriate, reviewed and maintained
- Ensures first aid supplies are checked and replenished
- Ensures first aid contact information is displayed and communicated
- Ensures first aid training records are maintained
4.2 First Aiders
- Provide first aid assistance within the limits of their training
- Call emergency services where needed
- Record first aid treatment provided using Equra’s reporting route
- Maintain confidentiality and treat individuals with dignity
4.3 Staff and students
- Report injuries/illness or hazards promptly
- Follow instructions during emergencies
- Do not use first aid supplies without authorisation except in urgent situations
5. How to access first aid
5.1 On-site
- Contact the nearest staff member or reception point (if applicable)
- Staff will contact the nominated first aider
- Where serious or life-threatening, call 999 immediately
5.2 Off-site activities
For trips/events, Equra will confirm first aid arrangements in the event risk assessment, including:
- Who holds the first aid kit
- Emergency contact procedures
- Nearest emergency facilities where relevant
6. First aid equipment and supplies
Equra will provide:
- First aid kits suitable for the site/activity
- Replacement supplies as needed
- Additional items where risk assessment indicates a requirement (for example, travel kit for off-site events)
First aid kits must be:
- Stored in known locations
- Clearly labelled
- Checked at regular intervals
7. Emergency situations
In emergencies, priority is to:
- Protect life and prevent deterioration
- Call 999 where needed
- Provide appropriate first aid until emergency services arrive
- Inform the Health and Safety Lead as soon as possible
8. Recording and reporting
8.1 All first aid treatment and incidents must be recorded using Equra’s incident reporting route.
8.2 Records should include:
- Date/time and location
- Name of injured/ill person (where known)
- Nature of injury/illness
- First aid given
- Whether emergency services were called
- Any follow-up actions
Data will be handled confidentially and stored securely.
9. Infection control and hygiene
First aiders should follow appropriate hygiene measures, including:
- Use of disposable gloves where appropriate
- Safe disposal of clinical waste
- Cleaning and disinfection where bodily fluids are involved
10. Review
This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if needed due to incidents, changes to premises, or changes in delivery arrangements.