Does my Event need Medical Cover?

Prioritising Safety: Why First Aid is Essential for Every Event

Event planning involves a multitude of details, but one of the most critical, and often overlooked, aspects is ensuring adequate first aid and medical cover. This isn't just a good idea; it's a legal and ethical responsibility. This blog post will explain why first aid is non-negotiable for any event, explore the different types of cover available, and guide you through planning and implementing effective medical provisions.

The Non-Negotiable Nature of Event First Aid

Providing first aid at events isn't merely a suggestion; it's a fundamental requirement. There are two key reasons why:

• Legal Compliance: Legislation and guidance mandate that event organizers provide adequate and appropriate first aid personnel. This ensures that attendees receive immediate assistance should they become ill or injured. Failure to comply can lead to serious consequences.

• Moral Responsibility: Beyond legal obligations, event organizers have a moral duty to protect the well-being of everyone present. Providing proper first aid demonstrates a commitment to safety and provides peace of mind for attendees and organizers alike.

Types of Event First Aid Cover

Event medical cover is not one-size-fits-all. It ranges from basic first aid to advanced pre-hospital care, including on-site medical centers staffed by doctors. The crucial point is to match the level of cover to your event's specific risk profile.

Consider these factors when determining your needs:

• Event Size and Nature: A small community gathering will have different requirements than a large music festival.

• Activities Involved: Events with physical activities or potential hazards require more robust medical provisions.

• Venue and Environment: Remote locations or venues with limited access may necessitate specialized resources.

Don't assume a simple first aid kit will suffice. Local authorities often provide guidance, and consulting resources like the Purple Guide is considered best practice. Your event might require specialized resources such as cycle response units, ambulances, paramedics, rapid response vehicles, or even field hospitals. A reputable medical provider can help you arrange these.

Types of Event Medical Staff

Different providers offer varying levels of staffing. Here's a breakdown of common roles, but it's crucial to verify the specific qualifications and registrations of each individual:

• First Aiders: Typically hold an Emergency First Aid at Work qualification. They provide basic care for common injuries. Suitable for smaller events or as part of a larger team with higher-skilled personnel.

• First Responders: Possess more advanced training, often holding nationally recognised qualifications (e.g., FREC 3). They can provide a higher level of care and are suitable for a wider range of events.

• Emergency Care Assistants (ECAs): Have ambulance-level skills, often qualified to FREC 4. They provide a high standard of pre-hospital care.

• Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs): Highly trained professionals, often the highest level of non-registered medical personnel. They are valuable for large events, music festivals, and remote locations.

• Healthcare Professionals (HCPs): Registered professionals like Paramedics, Nurses, and Doctors. They provide the highest level of care and are often deployed at sporting events and large outdoor gatherings. Ensure HCPs are registered with their respective professional bodies.

Planning and Implementing Effective First Aid Cover

Effective event medical cover starts with a thorough risk assessment, which informs the development of a detailed medical needs assessment.

Conducting a Comprehensive Risk Assessment

This assessment is the cornerstone of your first aid plan. It involves:

• Identifying potential hazards specific to your event.

• Evaluating the risks associated with those hazards.

• Determining the appropriate level of first aid cover needed.

Choosing the Right First Aid Provider

Selecting a reputable provider is crucial. Consider these factors:

• Safe Recruitment: Ensure the provider has robust compliance checks in place for their staff, verifying their qualifications and skills.

• Capacity: Confirm they can provide the level of cover your risk assessment dictates.

• Insurance: Verify they have appropriate insurance coverage, including medical malpractice and fleet insurance.

What Your Event Medical Provider Should Do

A professional provider should offer comprehensive services, including:

• Detailed pre-event planning and a comprehensive medical needs assessment.

• Deployment of appropriate medical equipment and staff.

• Liaison with local ambulance services and hospitals.

• Experienced staff matching your event's risk profile.

• High standards of clinical documentation.

• Adherence to relevant guidance and best practices.

Guidance on Event First Aid

Several resources provide guidance on event first aid:

• The Purple Guide: Offers comprehensive advice on health, safety, and welfare at events, emphasizing the importance of risk-based first aid planning.

• Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981: Mandates the provision of first aid for employees and strongly recommends including attendees.

• Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations: General health and safety legislation that applies to events. Failure to comply can result in prosecution.

Safety Advisory Groups (SAGs)

SAGs are multi-agency groups that provide guidance on public safety at events. They typically include representatives from local authorities, emergency services, and other stakeholders. Consulting with your local SAG can be invaluable for planning your event's medical provision. Many local authorities publish information about their SAGs on their websites.

By prioritising safety and implementing a well-planned first aid strategy, you can create a secure and successful event for everyone involved.

You can find the Event Safety Guide published by the Oxfordshire Safety Advisory Group by clicking here