In Ireland, workplace safety isn’t just best practice — it’s the law. Under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Application) Regulations 2007, every employer is required to ensure that adequate first aid arrangements are in place. This includes appointing trained First Aid Responders (FAR) and maintaining proper first aid facilities across the workplace.
Choosing the right training provider and ensuring your staff complete an accredited course are key steps toward meeting your legal obligations. For most Irish workplaces, that means working with a provider approved by the Pre-Hospital Emergency Care Council (PHECC) and completing the FAR course — the national standard for occupational first aid.
Understanding the FAR Standard and Why It’s Required
The First Aid Responder (FAR) course, as set out by PHECC, is designed to equip workplace first aiders with the skills to provide life-saving care. It includes training in CPR, AED use, patient assessment, and response to medical emergencies such as choking, injuries, burns, or cardiac events.
Employers are required to appoint trained responders who hold a valid FAR certificate, which is typically valid for two years. Refresher training must be completed before expiry to maintain compliance.
FAR is recognised by the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) and considered the benchmark for first aid competency in Irish workplaces.
What the Law Says About First Aid in the Workplace
The law requires employers to assess the first aid needs of their workplace and provide sufficient training based on that assessment. Factors influencing this include:
- The nature of work (office vs. physical labour)
- Number of employees
- Workplace layout and risk levels
- Shift patterns or remote working
Based on this risk assessment, employers must determine how many trained responders are needed and ensure training is delivered through an approved provider. The training must be proportionate to the risk — meaning FAR training is often mandatory in higher-risk industries like construction, logistics, manufacturing, or healthcare.
Consequences of Non-Compliance with First Aid Laws
Failing to meet legal obligations around first aid can lead to serious consequences for employers. These may include:
- HSA enforcement actions or improvement notices
- Legal liability in the event of an incident
- Increased insurance premiums or claims
- Reputational damage in the eyes of employees and clients
More importantly, failure to train staff in life-saving skills puts lives at risk. In an emergency, minutes matter — and a well-trained FAR responder can make all the difference.
How to Stay Legally Compliant as an Employer
To remain compliant with Irish health and safety laws regarding first aid, employers should:
- Conduct regular risk assessments of their first aid needs
- Maintain accurate records of trained First Aid Responders
- Schedule refresher training before certification expires
- Ensure all courses are delivered by PHECC-approved instructors
- Provide adequate first aid kits and signage in line with HSA guidelines
By following these steps, employers not only comply with legislation but also create a safer, more prepared workplace.
Why On-Site First Aid Training Supports Compliance
Having First Aid Responder training delivered on-site offers practical advantages that support legal compliance. It allows staff to train in their actual work environment, which improves relevance and retention. On-site training also makes it easier for employers to schedule and monitor training across departments and locations.
At Handle with Care, we deliver all training at your premises, anywhere in Ireland, with qualified instructors who understand the legal framework and help ensure your team is fully prepared.
Common Misconceptions About First Aid Training Law
Some employers believe basic first aid knowledge is enough — or that having a first aid kit and emergency contact numbers meets the legal requirement. This is false. The law requires appointed responders to complete recognised training — and in most workplaces, that means the PHECC-accredited FAR course.
Another common misconception is that once certified, an employee is covered indefinitely. In fact, FAR certification must be renewed every two years through an official refresher course. Ignoring this requirement leaves your business exposed.
Book Legally Compliant First Aid Responder Training Today
If your organisation hasn’t reviewed its first aid arrangements recently, now is the time. The law requires more than just good intentions — it demands structured, certified training.
Handle with Care provides fully certified First Aid Responder training at your workplace anywhere in Ireland. Our courses meet all PHECC and HSA standards, helping you stay compliant, confident, and prepared.
Schedule Workplace First Aid Training with Handle with Care
We specialise in workplace first aid training for Irish businesses and organisations. No individuals, no public classes — just professional, compliant, on-site training delivered to your team.
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