Every employer in Ireland has a legal obligation to ensure that adequate first aid is available in the workplace. That means not only providing access to First Aid Responder training but also choosing the right people to receive it. The Pre-Hospital Emergency Care Council FAR course is the recognised standard for occupational first aid in Ireland, and making smart decisions about who completes it can make the difference between a well-managed emergency and a preventable tragedy.
When First Aid Responder training is delivered on-site at your business premises, it becomes even more effective — but only if the right employees are selected to participate. This blog explores how Irish employers can identify the most suitable team members for FAR training in Ireland and why it matters more than ever for workplace safety and legal compliance.
Understanding the Role of a First Aid Responder in the Workplace
A First Aid Responder is more than just a certificate holder. According to PHECC, their responsibility is to recognise and assess medical emergencies, deliver life-saving interventions including CPR and AED use, provide treatment for injuries and illnesses until emergency services arrive, and ensure the safety and comfort of the patient.
Employers must ensure there are enough trained responders available during working hours, covering all shifts, departments, and locations as needed. This makes the selection of trainees a strategic decision, not a random one.
Key Qualities to Look for in First Aid Candidates
The best employees to send for First Aid Responder training are those who demonstrate a blend of the following attributes. They should remain calm under pressure, communicate clearly, and be reliable and consistent in following procedures. Physical ability is also essential, as FAR training includes CPR, recovery positions, and bandaging. Employees who are regularly present during working hours and are respected by their colleagues tend to be the most effective responders in emergency situations.
How Many First Aid Responders Does Your Business Need
The Health and Safety Authority in Ireland recommends that businesses carry out a first aid risk assessment to determine how many trained responders are needed. This depends on the size of your workforce, the nature of the work, whether shift work or lone working is involved, and the layout of the building.
For example, low-risk workplaces such as offices may need one FAR-trained employee per fifty staff members, while high-risk environments like warehouses or manufacturing sites may require one per twenty staff or more, depending on circumstances. Training more than the minimum is strongly advised to ensure cover during leave or absences.
Benefits of On Site FAR Training for Staff Selection and Engagement
Providing First Aid Responder training on-site at your premises offers several benefits. It saves time, reduces travel, and allows staff to train in a familiar environment. It also enables managers to observe the training process and identify those who show leadership, initiative, or confidence under pressure.
On-site delivery also reinforces your commitment to staff safety and development, helping to create a more positive safety culture throughout the workplace.
Legal Obligations for First Aid Training in Ireland
Under Irish health and safety legislation, employers must ensure adequate first aid arrangements are in place. This includes appointing trained responders, providing appropriate supplies, and maintaining valid certification. Only training provided by a PHECC-approved instructor meets these legal requirements.
Employers who fail to meet these obligations risk legal consequences and increased liability in the event of a workplace emergency.
Supporting a Safer Workplace Culture
Choosing the right employees for First Aid Responder training is not just about compliance. It is an investment in your team and your organisation. A well-trained responder can make the difference between life and death in a critical moment. When employees are confident in their ability to respond, the entire workplace benefits from a stronger, more resilient safety culture.
Book Certified First Aid Responder Training for Your Team
Handle with Care offers PHECC-accredited First Aid Responder training delivered on-site at your business premises. We cover all of Ireland including Dublin, Cork, Galway, Limerick and surrounding counties. Our training is designed for employers, community organisations, and groups seeking professional, certified workplace training.
Maintaining Certification and Planning for Refresher Training
After completing a First Aid Responder course, it is important to plan ahead for refresher training. In Ireland, FAR certification remains valid for two years. To maintain compliance with national health and safety legislation, your staff must complete a recognised FAR Refresher course before their certification expires.
Scheduling refresher training in advance ensures that there are no gaps in your company’s first aid coverage. It also gives you the opportunity to reassess your emergency response plan and decide whether additional staff should be trained as first aiders. As your business grows or changes, your safety needs may also evolve — and regular training helps you stay prepared.
By offering on-site FAR refresher courses, businesses can maintain continuity, avoid costly fines, and demonstrate an ongoing commitment to employee welfare.
How to Book On Site First Aid Responder Training in Ireland
When you choose Handle with Care as your training provider, you benefit from expert-led instruction, full compliance with Irish standards, and the convenience of training delivered at your workplace. We work with businesses across every sector — including offices, construction, hospitality, manufacturing, education, healthcare, and retail.
We offer on-site First Aid Responder training in Dublin, Cork, Galway, Limerick, Waterford and throughout Ireland. Our courses are delivered by qualified instructors with healthcare backgrounds, ensuring all content is relevant, practical, and up to date with the latest PHECC guidelines.
You can schedule your training around your operational hours, and we offer flexible booking options including weekend availability upon request.
