Workplace First Aid Requirements in New Zealand

🩹 What Every Business Needs To Know

When an emergency happens at work, the first few minutes matter most. Having the right first aid systems in place isn’t just common sense — it’s a legal requirement under New Zealand’s Health and Safety at Work Regulations (2016).

So, what exactly does your workplace need to do to stay compliant and keep your team safe?

⚖️ The Legal Stuff — In Simple Terms

Under Regulation 13, every PCBU (Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking) must:
✅ Provide adequate first aid equipment and facilities
✅ Ensure workers have access to trained first aiders
✅ Make sure everyone knows what to do and where to go in an emergency

WorkSafe New Zealand expects every workplace to assess its specific risks and provide first aid resources that fit the nature of the work. There’s no “one-size-fits-all” rule — a small office has very different needs from a construction site or rural farm.

🧰 What You Must Have on Site

1️⃣ First Aid Kits

• At least one clearly labelled, fully stocked first aid kit.

• Easy to access and located where people actually work.

• Checked regularly — expired or used items replaced straight away.

💡 Tip: Large, multi-level, or high-risk workplaces may need multiple kits (or even mobile ones).

2️⃣ Trained First Aiders

• You must have enough staff trained to provide first aid at all times — including during shifts, breaks, and absences.

• Training should follow NZQA unit standards (e.g., 6401, 6402, and 6400 for higher-risk workplaces).

• Certificates should be refreshed every two years to keep skills current.

💬 Pro tip: Choose training that follows the NZ Resuscitation Council Guidelines, the national standard-setting body for first aid and CPR.

3️⃣ Facilities & Equipment

Depending on your workplace type, you might also need:

• A first aid room (for larger or higher-risk sites)

• An AED (defibrillator) in accessible areas

• Eyewash or emergency showers where chemicals are used

• Extra kits for remote workers or work vehicles

🧮 How to Work Out What You Need

WorkSafe recommends doing a First Aid Needs Assessment that considers:

• The hazards and risks in your work environment

• Number of staff and work shifts

• How far you are from medical services

• If your team works alone or off-site

Document your findings, act on them, and review them regularly — especially if your team, layout, or work type changes.

💡 Why It Matters

Having trained first aiders and well-stocked kits isn’t just about compliance — it’s about saving lives. Quick, confident action can mean the difference between a full recovery and a tragedy.

🧯 Need Help Getting Compliant?

At RealMed First Aid, we make workplace first aid simple.

We offer on-site group training — we come to you, anywhere in New Zealand. Training is delivered in accordance with NZ Resuscitation Council guidelines, and every course is tailored to your workplace risks and team size.

Ready to make your workplace safer?

👉 Contact RealMed First Aid today to book your next course.

🌐 www.realmed.co.nz

📍 Learn More with RealMed First Aid

We teach this and more in our:
✅ Comprehensive First Aid Course
✅ Workplace First Aid Course
✅ Refresher First Aid Course
✅ Basic Life Support Course
✅ Control the Bleed Course

📅 Private Courses Available Across New Zealand