1.4.1 First Aid

Overview

Appropriate first aid arrangements must be in place for all educational visits. The level of first aid support required will depend on the nature of the visit, the environment and the activities involved.

Every visit must include at least one responsible adult with a suitable working knowledge of first aid, an appropriate first aid kit and the means to contact qualified assistance.

First Aid Provision

For routine visits in urban environments, a basic understanding of first aid may be sufficient. This might include general life experience or a short introductory course, such as a basic first aid skills session.

More remote locations, residential visits or higher-risk activities may require staff with higher-level first aid training.

The Visit Leader and Educational Visits Coordinator (EVC) should consider the environment and activities when deciding what level of first aid competence is required.

Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)

For visits involving children in the Early Years Foundation Stage, at least one member of staff must hold a current Paediatric First Aid certificate.

Staff must also be able to summon emergency assistance in English if required.

First Aid Support During Visits

While not every visit requires a fully qualified first aider, appropriate support must always be available.

When leading a visit you should:

• Have a working knowledge of basic first aid
• Know how to use the first aid kit
• Be able to access additional medical help if required

Where remote supervision is used, participants must have a reliable way to contact help and carry appropriate first aid materials.

Emergency Medication

Some participants may require specific medication during visits.

• Participants at risk of anaphylaxis should carry two adrenaline auto-injectors
• Participants with asthma should carry their reliever inhaler
• Establishments may have spare inhalers or adrenaline auto-injectors for emergency use in school and offsite where appropriate procedures are in place. This should be considered in the risk assessment process.

Medication should be clearly labelled, in date, stored appropriately and suitable for the participant’s age. Parental consent is required for administering medication, including non-prescription medicines.

Health Considerations

You should remain aware of potential health risks during visits.

Minor conditions such as sunburn, insect bites, headaches, cuts or colds may require basic treatment. Staff should also be aware of more serious conditions, such as sepsis, and seek urgent medical advice if symptoms develop.

For overseas visits, check local rules relating to medicines and ensure prescriptions are available where required.

Recording and Reporting

Any first aid provided during a visit must be recorded and reported in line with your employer’s procedures. This may include completing accident records and following reporting requirements such as RIDDOR, where applicable. Seek advice if not sure.

Environmental Hazards

You should be aware of environmental hazards and how to manage them. These may include:

• Insect bites and stings
• Plant stings
• Burns or minor injuries
• Tick bites

Preventive measures, guidance and local advice should be followed where appropriate.

For overseas visits, additional risks may include venomous animals, rabies, insect-borne diseases or harmful plants. Careful preparation and awareness can help manage these risks effectively.