Have you ever wondered what it takes to be a first aider in Australia?
Being a parent, employee or simply someone who desires to make a difference in emergency situations all require one thing: recognizing the legal requirements of first aid.
Emergencies and accidents can take place anytime, anywhere and having skilled individuals available to provide first aid can be life-saving and reduce the consequences of injuries.
In Australia, there are both important responsibilities and legal obligations that come with being a first aider.
Whether you are in charge of providing workplace first aid or just an individual eager to help out during an emergency, understanding your legal responsibilities is essential.
In this blog post, we will take an in-depth look into the legal duties of first aiders in Australia.
We will examine the rights and responsibilities tied to this important role, providing individuals with a deeper understanding of the legal framework.
This knowledge will empower them to assist others confidently. Additionally, it ensures their actions remain compliant with Australian law.
Introduction to First Aid: What is it & who are first aiders?
Providing initial care for an injury or illness is referred to as first aid.
It can be administered by a bystander or layperson, and in certain situations, a trained professional such as a first responder or emergency medical technician may be needed.
Sir John Franklin, a British explorer, was the first to coin the term “first aid” in 1859.
He proposed that supplies and equipment on board expedition ships be used to offer assistance to anyone with an injury or illness.
First aid can be administered for many different types of situations – from minor ailments to life-threatening emergencies.
It can even be given at a distance, with the help of technological means like telephone or applications over the internet.
Who are first aiders?
Someone who has been trained in first aid is known as a first aider.
Such individuals are usually associated with businesses or organizations that have designated them to offer this sort of care, but anyone is capable of undergoing the necessary training.
This can be obtained from a variety of sources, including online and offline courses.
The Legal Obligations of First Aiders in Australia
In Australia, no nationwide legislation mandates a minimum level of first aid training.
Employers usually establish their own policies and procedures.
They are responsible for ensuring their staff is adequately trained to handle various medical situations.
This includes providing proper preparation for performing CPR when necessary.
It is not a legal requirement to have a first aider on site at all times, yet many companies will include it as part of their safety protocols.
It is essential to check with your employer what their individual regulations are.
If you are trained in first aid and are called upon to provide aid, it is important that you take into account your legal obligations.
Above all, act in the best interests of the patient and deliver the care you know will be beneficial.
It’s important to be mindful not to do anything that could result in further damage to the patient; whether they’ve suffered a spinal injury or not.
Direct care should also be avoided unless beneficial, for instance, tools with a sharp edge shouldn’t be used to take out splinters.
When providing care, gaining consent from the patient is preferable.
If the patient is unable to express their opinion in this regard, it may still be possible to assume they would give consent if they could by assessing the situation.
Steps to Follow if You Are a First Aider at an Emergency Scene
If you’re a first aider on the scene of an emergency, it’s important to follow certain procedures to fulfill your legal requirements.
Assess whether the situation is safe and, if there’s any danger, don’t put yourself in harm’s way – contact Triple Zero (000) and request an ambulance.
Once it is safe to do so, review the casualty for signs of life. Check for breathing and a pulse, and if they are unconscious, ensure their airway is open by tilting the head back and lifting the chin.
Once you have evaluated the casualty, give them the required first aid.
This can include giving CPR if they are not breathing, applying dressings or bandages to any wounds to stop any bleeding, or running cool water over burns.
Once the casualty has been treated and/or transported to hospital, it is crucial for you to discuss with your team and record all information regarding the event.
Doing so can enable better responses in upcoming scenarios and help identify any potential hazards that need to be addressed.
Potential Risks and Responsibilities for First Aiders in Australia
First Aiders in Australia have a few potential risks and responsibilities that they need to be aware of. These include:
- Complying with the First Aid Code of Practice, which stipulates the lowest level of care First Aiders must provide.
- Familiarity with the first aid resources available at the workplace, including an emergency action plan, is essential.
- Ensuring that all apparatus is immaculate and in proper functioning condition.
- Being aware of the most recent first aid techniques is essential. It is vital to be able to administer appropriate treatment in times of medical emergency.
- Being able to effectively and efficiently use current best practice guidelines to deliver evidence-based care.
Civil and Criminal Liability of First Aiders
When administering first aid, it is essential to be aware of any civil and criminal liabilities that may be incurred.
Normally, you won’t be responsible for either legal consequence if you were acting in good faith and exercising due care; but there are exceptions to this rule.
If you are not thorough in the first aid you provide, or if your actions resulted in harm to the patient, you can be sued.
For instance, if you didn’t fully assess the situation before assisting, or if the remedy used caused additional injury, you could face legal action.
If you were to act with criminal negligence, it might result in charges being brought against you.
This could include manslaughter, for example, if you recklessly administered first aid that led to harm or death.
It is important to remember that such charges would only be laid in situations of extreme carelessness.
Potential Repercussions of Not Following Obligations as a First Aider
It is essential for first aiders in Australia to be conscious of the legal responsibilities associated with this role.
If these are not fulfilled, the consequences could be heavy – both for yourself and the person you’re trying to aid.
Some of the potential consequences of not following your obligations as a first aider include:
- Failing to lend a helping hand to someone in need can lead to criminal charges in some states, for not rendering assistance.
- Failing to administer your duty of care as a first aider can lead to legal action if any harm is caused. Negligence could be claimed and you might face legal proceedings.
- If your workplace’s policies aren’t met, disciplinary action taken by your employer could range from minor to the ultimate consequence of losing your job.
It is important to be aware of the legal requirements of first aid and act in the best interests of those who need help.
Unfulfilled obligations could lead to serious repercussions, so it is vital to stay on top of all regulations.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is imperative for first aiders in Australia to be aware of their legal rights and responsibilities.
Knowing this will allow them to provide indispensable assistance without worries or liabilities.
Ultimately, the topmost priority should be giving successful aid when needed!
FAQs
1. What is the difference between a first aider and a medical practitioner?
No special medical qualifications are needed to become a first aider; however, they must be able to carry out basic lifesaving tasks such as CPR.
Medical practitioners, on the other hand, are qualified healthcare professionals who can provide more comprehensive medical treatments.
2. Do I need to have a first aid certificate to be a first aider?
No first aid certificate is required to be a first aider, but it is suggested that you take part in formal training to become familiar with the basics of first aid.
3. What should I do if I witness an accident?
If you are a witness to an accident, ensure your safety and that of others is not at risk.
Once it is secure to proceed, assess the situation. Should you discover any unconsciousness, lack of respiration or urgent medical care required, contact the emergency services number triple zero (000) as soon as possible.
Refrain from moving the casualty unless absolutely essential.
4. What is the primary aim of first aid?
The utmost priority in first aid is the safety of all involved. Its purpose is to maintain life, avert additional damage and facilitate healing.
5. What are some common injuries that first aiders deal with?
First aiders are trained to manage various injuries, including cuts, bruises, sprains, strains, and fractures.
They can also assist individuals facing medical issues such as asthma attacks and seizures.
Their skills ensure prompt and effective support in emergencies.