OSHA Requirements: First Aid

Prompt First Aid:

• OSHA mandates that employers ensure prompt first aid treatment for employees. 

Trained Personnel or Emergency Services:

• Employers can fulfill this requirement by having trained first aid providers on-site or by ensuring emergency services are within reasonable proximity. 

Minimum Training:

• For field crews, at least two employees should be trained in first aid and CPR. 

CPR within 4 Minutes:

• For fixed work sites, enough trained employees should be available to provide first aid and CPR within 4 minutes of an incident. 

CPR Training Frequency:

• The American Red Cross, a partner of OSHA, recommends CPR training be updated annually. 

First Aid Training Frequency:

• The American Red Cross recommends updating first aid training every three years, according to CPRTrainingPro.com. 

Practical Hands-on Training:

• First aid courses should include practical hands-on training and examination. 

Recordkeeping:

• Records of first aid and medical treatments should be maintained in accordance with OSHA's recordkeeping standards. 

Adequate Supplies:

• First aid supplies should be readily available and maintained. 

Additional Considerations:

• "Reasonable Proximity":

  • The definition of "reasonable proximity" can vary depending on the specific circumstances of the workplace. 

Industry-Specific Standards:

• Some OSHA standards for specific industries may have additional requirements related to first aid and CPR training.