First aid training essential for businesses during Christmas rush
The British Red Cross is urging business owners and employers throughout the country to ensure all staff have undergone basic first aid training in the run-up to Christmas.
The national charity said that first aid cover is essential during the busy Christmas period, especially when employers are taking on extra staff to handle the workload. All businesses need to meet certain legal requirements relating to first aid provision and health and safety at work, no matter what time of year it is.
The British Red Cross’ Anna McManus said:
“We know the lead up to Christmas is a very busy time for most businesses and industry in general.
“With so much else going on, first aid cover can be deemed a low priority, but it is vital, especially when people are so busy, that life saving skills are taken as seriously as ever.”
Ms McManus also highlighted the benefits of first aid training for businesses, which include creating a safe working culture, boosting staff confidence and morale, preventing accidents and injuries, avoiding prosecution from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) for breaching safety regulations and crucially – saving lives.