First aid preparedness is a non-negotiable legal requirement for every South African employer. The OHS Act and the General Safety Regulations set out clear obligations regarding the number of trained first aiders, the level of training required, and the equipment that must be available on site.
How Many First Aiders Do You Need?
The General Safety Regulations specify minimum ratios based on the number of employees on site. For low-risk environments, one trained first aider is required for every 50 employees. For high-risk environments such as construction, mining, and manufacturing, the ratio is one first aider for every 10 employees. These are minimums — your specific risk profile may require more.
Levels of First Aid Certification
South Africa recognises three levels of first aid certification. Level 1 covers basic life support and is suitable for low-risk office environments. Level 2 covers more advanced techniques including management of medical emergencies and is required in moderate-risk workplaces. Level 3 is the most advanced, covering trauma management and emergency response, required in high-risk environments and for designated first aiders in larger organisations.
Certificate Validity and Renewal
All first aid certificates are valid for three years from the date of issue. Employers must track certificate expiry dates and ensure first aiders complete refresher training before their certificates lapse. Allowing certificates to lapse constitutes non-compliance with the OHS Act.
First Aid Equipment Requirements
Every workplace must have a fully stocked first aid kit appropriate to the hazards present. Kits must be clearly marked, readily accessible, and regularly inspected and replenished. In larger workplaces, first aid rooms with appropriate equipment and supplies may be required.
Book First Aid Training with Kenako HSE
Kenako HSE offers accredited Level 1, 2, and 3 first aid training delivered on-site at your workplace or at our training facility. Contact us to schedule a course for your team.