Most workplace emergencies are won or lost in the minutes before professional help arrives. You don't need to be a paramedic — you need to stay calm, keep safe, and know the sequence that keeps someone alive. This guide covers DR ABC, CPR and the recovery position.
Why basic first aid matters
A casualty who isn't breathing can suffer permanent harm within minutes. Early CPR and a fast 999 call dramatically improve survival.
That's why every workplace needs trained people, not just a first-aid box.
This is an awareness guide, not a substitute for hands-on training. Always call the emergency services first, and complete an accredited practical first-aid course before acting as a workplace first aider.
The DR ABC sequence
DR ABC is the order to work through in any emergency. Tap each step to see what it means.
Make it safe first
Check the scene for traffic, electricity, fire or anything that could harm you. You're no use as a second casualty.
Three situations, three responses
Most workplace emergencies fall into a few patterns. Knowing the right response is the heart of first aid.
Unresponsive, breathing
Roll them onto their side, head tilted to keep the airway open, and monitor breathing until help arrives.
Unresponsive, not breathing
Call emergency services, then 30 chest compressions to 2 rescue breaths — keep going until help takes over.
Severe bleeding
Apply firm direct pressure with a clean dressing and call for help. Don't remove a soaked dressing — add on top.
Always call 999 or 112 first (or get someone to). Early professional help saves the most lives.
What to do, step by step
Four moves cover the critical first response:
Check for danger
Protect yourself and the casualty before you touch anything.
Check response & shout for help
Talk and gently shake. No response? Get help and a defibrillator on the way.
Open airway & check breathing
Head tilt, chin lift. Look, listen and feel for up to 10 seconds.
Act: CPR or recovery position
Not breathing → 30:2 CPR. Breathing → recovery position and monitor.
What the law requires
Under the Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981, UK employers must provide adequate first-aid equipment, facilities and trained people. In an emergency, call 999 or 112. In practice:
- Assess first-aid needs for your workplace
- Provide trained first aiders and a stocked kit
- Display first-aid signage and procedures
- Keep records of incidents and treatment