Compliance code: First aid in the workplace

What it contains

This compliance code ('code') provides practical guidance for those who have duties under the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004 ('OHS Act') and the Occupational Health and Safety Regulations 2017 ('OHS Regulations'). The code was developed by WorkSafe Victoria ('WorkSafe') in consultation with employer and employee representatives.

The purpose of this code is to guide employers on how to provide adequate workplace facilities, in particular first aid facilities, for the welfare of employees.

This code provides information for employers in relation to providing adequate first aid facilities in the workplace, including assessing first aid needs, first aid kits, first aid rooms, the number of first aid officers and training, and first aid procedures.

This code provides information about how employers can comply with duties owed to employees to provide adequate facilities for their welfare. Independent contractors may be deemed to be employees by operation of section 21(3) of the OHS Act. It does not cover duties to provide first aid facilities.

While the guidance provided in the code is not mandatory, a duty holder who complies with the code will – to the extent it deals with their duties or obligations under the OHS Act and OHS Regulations – be considered to have complied with those duties or obligations.

This code replaces the First aid in the workplace compliance code 2008, which is no longer in effect.