26 Aug 2026
Workplace first aid is an important part of maintaining a safe workplace in NSW. Employers need to ensure workers have access to appropriate first aid equipment, facilities and trained first aiders based on the nature of the work and the risks present.
Understanding your workplace first aid responsibilities can help businesses ensure they are prepared to respond effectively when an injury or illness occurs.
What Is the
Workplace First Aid Requirements in NSW?
Under NSW work health and safety requirements, workplaces must provide appropriate first aid arrangements for workers. The level of first aid provision should reflect the hazards and risks associated with the workplace.
When determining appropriate first aid arrangements, employers should consider factors such as:
the type of work being performed
workplace hazards and potential injuries
the number of workers
the size and location of the workplace
work carried out across different shifts
access to emergency medical services
whether workers may work remotely or in isolated locations.
There is no single first aid arrangement that is suitable for every workplace. First aid requirements should be based on the circumstances and risks of the individual workplace.
First Aid Equipment and First Aid Kits
Workplaces should have appropriate first aid equipment that is readily accessible to workers.
At least one first aid kit should be provided where appropriate, with the contents determined by the hazards and risks of the workplace. Additional or specialised equipment may be required where workers are exposed to particular hazards, such as serious bleeding, burns, chemicals or other workplace-specific risks.
First aid kits should be regularly checked, maintained and restocked so that equipment is available when it is needed.
Trained Workplace First Aiders
Employers should ensure that an appropriate number of workers are trained to provide first aid, taking into account the circumstances of the workplace.
The number of trained first aiders required can depend on factors including:
the number of workers
workplace hazards
the location of workers
work shifts and operating hours
the size and layout of the workplace
access to emergency services.
Businesses should also consider how first aid will be provided when trained first aiders are absent, working different shifts or working at another location.
Workplace First Aid Risk Assessment
A workplace first aid assessment should form part of the overall workplace health and safety process.
Employers should identify potential hazards and consider what could happen if a worker or other person becomes injured or ill.
A first aid risk assessment should consider:
the types of injuries or illnesses that could occur
the likelihood and potential severity of those injuries
the number of people who may require first aid
the location of workers
access to emergency services
remote or isolated work
the availability of trained first aiders
the suitability and location of first aid equipment.
First aid arrangements should also be reviewed when workplace conditions, hazards, staffing or work activities change.
Are Your Workplace First Aid Arrangements Suitable?
Workplace first aid is not simply about having a first aid kit on the wall.
Businesses need to consider whether workers can access appropriate equipment, whether trained first aiders are available when required, and whether the workplace's first aid arrangements match the risks associated with the work.
Regularly reviewing these arrangements can help businesses remain prepared for workplace emergencies.
Workplace First Aid Training in Sydney and NSW
Microfirm Training provides nationally recognised first aid training for workplaces, businesses and groups across Sydney, NSW and the ACT.
Our workplace training can be delivered at your workplace, helping your team develop practical skills and confidence to respond to first aid emergencies.
Looking for workplace first aid training in Sydney? Visit our [Workplace First Aid Training Sydney] page to learn more about workplace and onsite training options.
For information about workplace responsibilities and first aid arrangements, see our [Workplace First Aid Requirements in NSW] page.
Important Information
Workplace first aid requirements should be assessed according to the individual workplace, its hazards and its circumstances. Businesses should refer to current NSW work health and safety guidance and relevant Codes of Practice when reviewing their first aid arrangements.
Information in this article is provided for general educational purposes and should not be considered legal advice.