How Many First Aiders Does a Business Need in the UK? (Medway & Kent Guide)

18/02/2026

If you run a business in Medway or anywhere across Kent, understanding how many first aiders you legally need is essential for workplace compliance. UK Health & Safety Executive (HSE) regulations require every employer to assess their first aid provision based on workplace risk and staff numbers.

What Do UK Regulations Say?

Under the Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981, employers must:

Carry out a first aid needs assessment
Provide adequate first aid equipment
Ensure appropriate trained personnel are available

The number of trained first aiders depends on your workplace risk level.

Low-Risk Workplaces (Offices, Shops, Small Businesses)

For low-risk environments:

Fewer than 25 employees → At least 1 Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) trained person
25–50 employees → At least 1 EFAW
50+ employees → 1 First Aid at Work (FAW) trained person per 100 employees

High-Risk Workplaces (Construction, Manufacturing, Warehousing)

For higher-risk businesses:

Fewer than 5 employees → At least 1 EFAW
5–50 employees → At least 1 FAW
50+ employees → 1 FAW per 50 employees

Construction sites in Medway and Kent often fall into this category.

How Often Do Certificates Expire?

EFAW → Valid for 3 years
FAW → Valid for 3 years (annual refresher recommended)

Local Advice for Medway Businesses

If you're based in Chatham, Gillingham, Rochester, Strood or surrounding Kent areas, ensuring correct first aid provision protects your staff and keeps you compliant with HSE guidance.

Need Help?

Forever-Aid Training provides accredited First Aid Training in Medway and across Kent.