First Aid

Providing first aid assistance and first aid supplies can help reduce the severity of an injury, reduce the cost of medical bills and length of time an employee is unable to work.

Q: Do I have to make sure that someone trained in first-aid trained is available?
A: Yes, All employers in Washington must have either first aid trained personnel at their worksite or immediate access to a health care service.

Q: Do I have to provide first aid supplies?
A: Yes, regardless of how many employees you have, you must provide first aid supplies at your workplace.

Regulation & Policy

• WAC 296-800-150   First Aid - Safety and Health Core Rules

Industry Specific Rules

• WAC 296-307-039 - Agricultural work
• WAC 296-155-120 - Construction work
• WAC 296-54-51510 - Logging
• WAC 296-78-540 - Sawmills
• WAC 296-304-06015 - Shipyard work

• If your employees provide first aid as part of their job duties (like EMTs or nurses) you are required to comply with the rules on Bloodborne Pathogens.

Resources

• OSHA First Aid Guide - Best Practices Guide: Fundamentals of a Workplace First-Aid Program (OSHA 3317-05N 2006)

Ask an Expert

• Email a Specialist - If you have questions about the first aid rules.