First aid during the coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak​

General provision of first aid

Provision of an appropriate level of first aid should be available in every workplace, and all employees informed of the first aid arrangements.

The degree of first aid, the level of training of first aiders and the type of first aid equipment which should be available will depend on the level and types of risks in your workplace and/ or associated with your working activities, and the number of people you employ. 

As a minimum, a low risk workplace such as a small office should have at least one appointed person available at all times. An appointed person is responsible for taking charge when someone is injured or falls ill, such as calling the emergency services if necessary, and for ensuring the first aid box, which should be stocked with items relevant to the risks arising from the working activities, is maintained.

Workplaces where there are more significant health and safety risks are more likely to require a trained first aider.

First aid during the COVID-19 outbreak

During the COVID-19 outbreak first aiders need to be confident that they are able to provide the appropriate level of first aid assistance, taking into account the risks posed by COVID-19. This includes knowing what steps and equipment they can use to minimise risk of infection transmission.

Treating the casualty properly should remain the first concern but as far as possible:

• try to assist at a safe distance from the casualty as much as you can and minimise the time you share a breathing zone
• if they are capable, tell them to do things for you, but treating the casualty properly should be your first concern
• if a serious illness or injury is suspected, call 999 immediately – tell the call handler if the patient has any symptoms of COVID-19
• after delivering any first aid ensure you safely discard disposable items, clean reusable ones thoroughly and wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitiser as soon as possible

Preservation of life - CPR

• if the casualty requires CPR, ask if a portable defibrillator is available
• before starting CPR, to minimise transmission risk, use a cloth or towel to cover the patient’s mouth and nose, whilst still permitting breathing to restart following successful resuscitation 
• if available use a fluid-repellent surgical mask, disposable gloves, eye protection and an apron or other suitable covering
• only deliver CPR by chest compressions and use a defibrillator (if available) – don’t do rescue breaths

Anybody that may be required to perform CPR/defibrillation in an out-of-hospital setting should refer to the statement on COVID-19 published by the Resuscitation Council (UK)

Further guidance on how to safely provide first aid assistance during COVID-19 is available on the HSE website.

First aid training

Details of trainers and the courses they provide:

Jersey Safety Council website

St. John Ambulance (Jersey) website

Further information

First aid at work on the UK HSE website

First aid at work: your questions answered on the UK HSE website