First Aid Requirements in the Workplace

Why Workplace First Aid Matters

Every Australian employer has a legal duty of care to provide a safe working environment. A core part of that obligation is ensuring adequate first aid provisions are in place — so that if an injury or medical emergency occurs, help is available immediately.

Getting this right isn't just about compliance. It can be the difference between life and death.

What Does Australian Law Require?

Workplace first aid requirements in Australia are governed by the Work Health and Safety (WHS) Act and associated regulations, enforced at the state and territory level. While specific requirements vary by jurisdiction, the core obligations are consistent:

  • Employers must provide first aid equipment appropriate to the workplace
  • Access to trained first aiders must be available during working hours
  • First aid facilities must be accessible to all workers
  • Employers must ensure workers know how to access first aid

First Aid Kits: What's Required?

The type and size of first aid kit required depends on the nature of your workplace, the number of workers, and the hazards present. As a general guide:

  • Low-risk workplaces (e.g. offices): A basic kit with bandages, dressings, gloves, and CPR instructions
  • High-risk workplaces (e.g. construction, film sets, events): A more comprehensive kit including trauma dressings, burns treatment, splints, and oxygen equipment
  • Kits must be regularly inspected and restocked — expired or missing items are a compliance risk

Browse our range of workplace first aid kits at Onset Health.

First Aid Officers: How Many Do You Need?

Safe Work Australia recommends the following as a starting point:

  • Low-risk workplaces: 1 first aider per 50 workers
  • High-risk workplaces: 1 first aider per 10 workers
  • Remote or isolated workplaces may require additional provisions

First aiders must hold a current, nationally recognised first aid qualification such as HLTAID011 Provide First Aid, renewed every 3 years (CPR component annually).

Defibrillators (AEDs) in the Workplace

While not yet universally mandated, WorkSafe strongly encourages employers to consider installing an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) on site. With cardiac arrest being a leading cause of workplace death, an AED can significantly improve survival outcomes when used within the first few minutes of collapse.

AEDs should be:

  • Located in a visible, accessible, and well-signposted area
  • Never locked away
  • Accompanied by staff trained in their use

Explore our AED and defibrillator range — eligible businesses may also be able to claim an instant asset write-off at EOFY.

First Aid for Film & TV Productions

On-set environments present unique hazards — from stunts and pyrotechnics to remote locations and long hours. Productions operating in Australia must comply with the same WHS obligations as any other employer, and in many cases require a higher level of medical preparedness.

At Onset Health, we provide fully equipped medical personnel, first aid supplies, and medical consultancy tailored to the specific demands of film, television, and commercial productions.

Contact us to discuss your production's first aid and medical support requirements.

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