Selection of candidates to act as first aid officers

Continuing or fixed-term full-time staff members would normally be nominated to act as a first aid officer - casual staff should not be nominated.

First aid coverage should be arranged for most, if not all, hours during which a work area is staffed.

Candidates for first aid officer must:

• Be relatively available and accessible during the normal hours of work in the area to which they are assigned.

  It may not be appropriate for appointment as first aid officers, staff who:

  • have extended planned leave,
  • other absences, or
  • with responsibilities which take them away from the work area.

• Be able to act calmly in an emergency and demonstrate a capacity to deal with injury and illness.

• Be aware of the limitations of their training as first aid officers and able to make appropriate judgements about the need to seek medical advice or call an ambulance.

• Express a willingness and enthusiasm to perform their first aid duties.

• Be able to be called away from their regular work at short notice.

• Relate well to other staff and students and should also be in reasonable health.