First aid

1. The University has first aid facilities and appointed first aid officers on all campuses to provide initial first aid treatment to people who are sick or injured.

2. Normally, first aid is provided by an appointed First Aid Officer. If a First Aid Officer cannot be located, assistance may be given by someone other than a First Aid Officer, providing they hold a current nationally recognised Australian qualification in first aid.

3. First aid should only be administered within the person's level of training and competence. If the first aid provider believes the treatment required is beyond their capabilities, they must seek professional assistance.

4. When first aid treatment is given, instructions issued by the first aid provider must be followed by those in attendance.

5. The WHS team maintains a list of current First Aid Officers which is available on the staff online directory.

6. If a First Aid Officer provides first aid in a situation that is deemed 'serious' (i.e. any event or circumstance that presents an immediate threat to life) the Manager, Workplace Health and Safety must be notified immediately after Emergency Services and Security.

7. In the event of an emergency, the University's Emergency procedures - Lismore & Gold Coast should be followed.

Facilities

8. First aid rooms and first aid kits are provided in accordance with the requirements of the relevant state legislation. The location and details of the facilities on each campus can be obtained from any of the University's designated First Aid Officers or the Workplace Health and Safety Team.

9. First aid kits are also provided in all University pool vehicles.

10. Each work unit will purchase a first aid kit for First Aid Officers within that work unit. The WHS team will cover the cost of replenishing the kits. First aid kits are monitored and maintained by an external first aid supplies representative.

11. Signs displayed in each building provide details of the nearest First Aid Officer.

Other first aid equipment

12. Defibrillators are available on each campus. Security should be contacted if a defibrillator is required.

First Aid Officers

13. First Aid Officers are initially appointed for three years and must hold a current nationally recognised Australian qualification in first aid during the term of their appointment.

14. Annual refresher courses are provided by the University to ensure First Aid Officers are able to update their skills during the term of their appointment.

15. Where First Aid Officers choose to have, or in situations where they are required to have a Hepatitis B vaccination, the University reimburses the cost of the vaccination.

Responsibilities

16. First Aid Officers are required to:

  • Provide first aid assistance as it is needed. They are also required to provide first aid coverage at special events (e.g. graduation ceremonies) at the request of the University;
  • Ask the injured employee/person to report the incident via the RiskWare portal, or complete the report on their behalf.
  • Know the location of first aid kits in their area and, as items in the kits require replacement, inform the Manager, Workplace Health and Safety so first aid supplies can be replenished promptly.

Appointment process

17. The Head of Work Unit provides a written recommendation to the Manager, Workplace Health and Safety when a first aid officer is required. The recommendation should include details of the employee nominated for the appointment and either a certified copy of the employee's original nationally recognised Australian first aid qualification or request that first aid training be arranged for the employee.

18. Where the appointment is approved by the Manager, Workplace Health and Safety, HR Services will send a letter of offer to the employee detailing the duties and the terms and conditions of the appointment to the employee.

19. If the employee accepts the appointment, their records will be noted and fortnightly payments of the first aid allowance will commence on the next available payday.

Other employees holding first aid qualifications

20. Other employees, who are not 'designated' University First Aid Officers, may be required to hold current first aid qualifications for the purposes of their position with the University for example, Technical Officers, Facilities Officers and other front line staff. These employees should provide first aid within their level of training and competence, as needed.