Accident reporting and first aid

Accident Reporting

Accidents should consistently be reported in accordance with the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 2013 (RIDDOR).
Obligations under RIDDOR are primarily on employers, who are required to report specific serious workplace accidents, occupational diseases and specific dangerous occurrences.
A reportable incident under RIDDOR includes work-related deaths, serious injuries, occupational diseases and near misses.
It’s vital to document accidents, even when they don’t warrant reporting under RIDDOR. This can help identify trends, highlight areas for improvement and provide vital information for insurers and health and safety inspectors.
Reports under RIDDOR are made to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

First Aid in Construction Sites

Construction sites should ensure adequate provision for first aid. Content of a first aid kit could include bandages, plasters, eye wash and sterile dressings.
The Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981 require employers to provide suitable first aid equipment, facilities, and trained personnel at all workplaces.
The amount and level of first aid provisions needs to be adequate and appropriate, taking into consideration the size of the workforce and the nature of the activities being carried out.
Risk assessment can help determine what first aid provisions are needed on site. This could encompass the number of first aid kits, the need for a dedicated first aid room or presence of first aiders.
Everyone on a construction site should be informed about the arrangements for first aid, including who the designated first aiders are and where the first aid facilities are located.
First aiders should receive training suitable to the size and risks of the workplace. This typically includes immediate emergency treatment and how to respond to specific situations.
Basic first aid training should cover common injuries like cuts, fractures, burns and eye injuries that can occur in the construction sector. More specialised training could be necessary depending on the specific work being carried out.