Why Modern Learning Needs to Change (or Sink)

Traditional workplace training can feel like trying to drink from a firehose too much information, too quickly, and not enough time to absorb it. That might explain why so many employees walk out of full day courses remembering little more than what was served for lunch.

According to the Ebbinghaus Forgetting Curve, people forget up to 70% of new information within 24 hours without reinforcement. No wonder training retention rates are so low.

Enter the microlearning revolution: short, sharp, and focused training designed for how people actually learn in 2025. F.A.S.T. Training Australia, winner of Best Business Support Services at the 2025 Ipswich Chamber of Commerce Awards, leads this shift with practical, time smart CPR, first aid, and mental health training built for today’s teams.

We’ve helped over 40,000 students across 480+ Brisbane and South East Queensland organisations master life saving skills without the time waste.

What Is Microlearning? (And Why Your Team Will Actually Remember It)

Think of microlearning as the focused alternative to marathon training sessions. Instead of dragging your team through a three hour presentation, microlearning breaks content into digestible chunks each one focused on a single outcome or skill.

For example:

45 minute practical CPR training for staff that achieves 95% competency rates compared to 70% in traditional half day courses.

60 minute mental health training for employees sessions that address real workplace stressors with evidence based strategies.

90 minute psychological safety modules delivered in formats that fit your team’s schedule.

These formats aren’t just convenient, they’re proven. The Journal of Applied Psychology reports that short bursts of learning can improve retention by up to 20%. Even big names like Google and IBM are using this strategy to drive engagement and performance.

Attention Fatigue Is Real (But Beatable)

Between Slack pings, emails, and back to back meetings, your team is running on cognitive fumes. Attention fatigue is the natural result and it’s the biggest reason traditional training falls flat.

That’s why F.A.S.T. Training Australia offers solutions designed to cut through the noise. Whether it’s bite sized mental health training for employees or quick, impactful safety refreshers, our microlearning approach makes learning stick without disrupting your operations.

We also help businesses meet their obligations with workplace safety and compliance training delivered in a way that’s clear, relevant, and actually remembered.

Focus on One Goal at a Time

You wouldn’t try to teach ten different skills in one overwhelming session. So why do we overload staff with bloated training days covering unrelated topics?

Our sessions focus on one goal at a time. That might be:

• Life saving skills in a fast paced workplace safety and compliance training course
• Morale boosting wellbeing sessions that address specific team challenges
• Micro modules tailored to real world risks in your industry

This single focus method helps teams retain what matters most and apply it confidently when it counts.

Award Winning Training Built for Brisbane Teams

F.A.S.T. Training Australia isn’t just another training provider. We’re a locally owned, nationally recognised RTO that’s trained over 40,000 students across 480+ Brisbane and South East Queensland organisations. Our recent recognition as Best Business Support Services at the 2025 Ipswich Chamber of Commerce Awards reflects our commitment to practical, efficient training that respects your time and budget.

Our trainers bring real world experience, our content is evidence based, and our delivery formats are designed for how busy teams actually operate. Whether you’re a school managing staff compliance, a corporate team juggling deadlines, or an organisation building a safety culture, we understand your challenges because we’re local.

Real Results: Training That Saves Time and Improves Outcomes

One Brisbane based school needed compliant first aid training for 45 staff without losing valuable teaching days. Our microlearning approach delivered:

✓ 45 min practical CPR class and 90 min full First Aid class instead of full day training
✓ 100% compliance achieved with minimal disruption
✓ Zero impact on student services
✓ Significant cost savings in relief staff expenses

When training is built for how your people actually learn, you get real results:

• Fewer incidents thanks to clear, memorable emergency response training
• Happier teams through practical mental health training for employees that addresses real workplace stressors
• Greater staff retention as people feel seen, safe, and supported
• Compliance without the headache using streamlined, efficient delivery

If your team has ever left a course unsure of what they just learned, it’s time to rethink your approach.

Learning on Their Terms: Flexibility Is Key

With hybrid work now the norm, flexible training isn’t just convenient it’s essential for keeping teams engaged, accountable, and consistently upskilled.

Our training comes in formats to suit every team:

• Onsite sessions delivered at your workplace for hands on, face to face learning
• Online modules for remote learners or geographically dispersed teams
• Blended options combining online theory with practical onsite assessment

Whether you’re booking a safety refresher or building a comprehensive wellbeing program, we make it seamless to roll out.

The post Workplace Training Brisbane Teams Actually Remember appeared first on FAST Training Australia.

The Silly Season’s all fun and games until someone falls off a ladder, scorches the Christmas roast, or sets off a drone disaster. Keep your holidays merry and injury free with these cheeky, practical safety tips from the experts at F.A.S.T. Training Australia.

Once upon a time, the biggest holiday hazard was eating too many mince pies. But in 2025? We’ve added drones, smart lights, outdoor fire pits, and “smart” BBQs that still manage to burn the sausages.

If you want your festive season to feature mistletoe and laughter (not a trip to the emergency room), buckle up  this guide is your friendly reminder that safety doesn’t take holidays.

Top Safety Tips to Not Ruin the Holidays

1. Ladder Follies: Because gravity doesn’t negotiate

Still climbing rickety ladders to hang fairy lights when drones exist? Classic. But if you’re going up, do it right:

• Use a stable ladder — not the old esky, not a chair, not a stack of wrapping paper boxes.

• Get a spotter (someone who cares if you survive).

• Don’t overreach or stretch like you’re auditioning for Cirque du Soleil.

• And yes avoid climbing if the eggnog’s been flowing.

According to Safe Work Australia, ladder-related injuries spike during the holiday period. Plan your decorations like a pro, not a stunt double.

2. Fire Pits & Outdoor Heaters: Romantic… until your eyebrows go missing

Nothing says “festive vibes” like a fire pit  until your cousin Gary turns it into a flamethrower.

• Keep fire pits away from fences, fairy lights, and synthetic costumes.

• Always have water or an extinguisher nearby (real, not decorative).

• Never leave fires unattended.

• Let ashes cool before disposal yes, even if you’re “just popping out.”

Check your local fire restrictions — they change faster than holiday moods!

3. Drone Disasters & Decoration Drama

Drones are great for aerial selfies, but less great when they kamikaze into the neighbor’s pool.

• Don’t overload them with ornaments they’re not Santa’s sleigh.

• Keep a safe distance from people, pets, and property.

• Know your local flight restrictions (CASA rules apply even to Christmas elves).

4. Kitchen Chaos: Because chefs shouldn’t double as firefighters

The kitchen is the heart of the home until it catches fire.

• Keep tea towels, wrapping paper, and packaging away from stovetops.

• Don’t multitask with alcohol and open flames  that’s a recipe for regret.

• Use timers for cooking (your roast deserves better than charcoal).

• Delegate tasks every kitchen needs a calm captain, not a one-person circus.

For peace of mind, brush up on your first aid skills before the big cook-up. A quick response can make all the difference.

5. Booze & Bonhomie: Where “spirits” can go wrong

’Tis the season to be merry  not reckless.

• Know your limits. The jollier you feel, the clumsier you become.

• Plan your trip home before the party starts.

• Avoid mixing alcohol with power tools, fireworks, or emotional karaoke.

6. Kid Chaos & Toy Troubles

Kids are adorable bundles of joy… until they discover gravity, batteries, and chaos.

• Choose age appropriate toys (hoverboards and toddlers don’t mix).

• Keep spare batteries and choking hazards out of reach.

• Declutter walkways stepping on a rogue Lego is not a rite of passage.

7. Health & Hygiene: Stay Festive, Not Infectious

2025 may not be about lockdowns, but germs still RSVP to parties.

• Wash or sanitise hands regularly.

• Ventilate indoor gatherings fresh air is your friend.

• Feeling sick? Skip the party. Santa forgives, viruses don’t.

Your 2025 Silly Season Safety Checklist

Ladder stable, spotter ready
Fire pit clear zone established
Kitchen safe (no flammable clutter)
First aid kit stocked
Batteries checked and stored safely
Plan for sober drivers / safe rides
Hand sanitiser handy and used

Keep It Safe, Keep It Silly

The best holiday stories are the ones you remember not the ones involving paramedics and melted fairy lights.

At Fast Training Australia, we love a laugh, but we take safety seriously.
Before the festivities begin, make sure you and your team are ready for anything from BBQ burns to basic first aid.

Explore our accredited First Aid and Workplace Safety Courses to stay smart, safe, and just the right amount of silly this season.

About Fast Training Australia

Fast Training Australia delivers nationally recognised first aid and workplace safety training across Australia. Whether you’re preparing for the Silly Season or just want to be the calmest person in a crisis, our trainers have you covered  with skill, experience, and a few jokes.  Is it time to learn first aid safety at home.  Get trained by an award winning team and company.

Stay safe and have fun this holiday season

Sarah and the F.A.S.T. Team x

Relevant courses:

First Aid inc CPR

HLTFSE001 Basic Food Safety Practices

Food Safety

The post Don’t Be a Party Pooper: Survive the 2025 Silly Season Intact appeared first on FAST Training Australia.

Picture this: 400 local business owners in one room. Fancy outfits. Even fancier speeches. And us, trying not to trip on stage.

We won Best Business Support Services at the Ipswich Chamber of Commerce Awards. And honestly… we’re still buzzing.

But here’s the thing. . . this award isn’t about us looking good in a suit (though we scrub up ok). It’s about every Brisbane and Ipswich business that’s trusted us with their workplace first aid training. Every student who’s sat through our training and actually remembered what to do in an emergency. Every organiser who’s told us, “That was the easiest training we’ve ever booked.”

So What Actually Makes Training ‘Award-Winning’?

Great question. Let’s break it down.

We Banned Boring Stories (Seriously)

You know those first aid courses where the trainer tells twenty minute stories about their cousin’s friend’s neighbour? Yeah, we don’t do that.

Our promise is simple: “No boring stories – guaranteed.”

Instead, we focus on what matters. Real world scenarios. Practical tips you’ll actually use. Training that sticks because it’s relevant, not because you’re desperately trying to stay awake.

One reviewer said it perfectly: “Best CPR training I have ever received. Very real, engaging and memorable.”

That’s not by accident. That’s by design.

Stress-Free Planning (Because You’ve Got Enough on Your Plate)

Here’s what we hear all the time: “Training is important, but organising CPR refresher training is a nightmare.”

We get it. You’re juggling compliance requirements, staff schedules, budget approvals, and someone’s definitely going to call in sick on training day.

So we made it simple:

• Book a date
• We handle the rest
• Certificates delivered same day (usually)
• Done

No back and forth emails. No confusing paperwork. No surprises.

We bring award winning first aid training to workplaces across Brisbane, Ipswich, and Toowoomba. Our Training Portal means you can manage compliance without needing a PhD in spreadsheets. And our flexible delivery options? Whether you need onsite training in Ipswich, public classes in Brisbane, or online courses for remote teams we’ve got you covered.

350+ Local Businesses Can’t All Be Wrong

Look, we’re not saying we’re perfect. But when 350+ local businesses keep coming back, we must be doing something right.

Schools trust us with their staff and students and businesses book us year after year. Even businesses who “tried that other provider once” end up finding us.

Why?

Because we understand local workplace needs. We know the compliance requirements inside out. And we actually care about making your life easier.

Plus, we’re locals. Based right here in the community we serve. When you call us, you’re talking to someone who knows exactly what you’re dealing with.

We’re Excited About This Award – So Let’s Celebrate Together!

Winning this award has us buzzing. And we want to share that with you.

Whether you’re a loyal client who’s been with us for years or a business that’s been meaning to give us a try, we’ve got something for you.

DEALS FOR WORKPLACE TRAINING

Free First Aid for Stress Workshop

Book your next CPR or First Aid course and receive our 30-minute First Aid for Stress session completely free. Because let’s be honest, workplace stress is its own kind of emergency.  Mention this win when you ask for a training quote.

Book before 30 November 2025, hold your course before 30 June 2026.

DISCOUNTS FOR PUBLIC COURSE STUDENTS

$10 off CPR Refresher with code WINNER10

$15 off First Aid including CPR with code WINNER15

Book by 30 November, train by 30 June 2026.

It’s our way of saying thanks for being part of our award-winning story.

Fun Training? Yes, It’s Possible

Here’s a controversial take: training doesn’t have to be painful.

In fact, when training is engaging and even (dare we say it) fun, people actually learn better. They remember more and they feel more confident when an emergency actually happens.

Our trainers bring energy, humour, and real world experience to every session. They make CPR practice less awkward. They answer questions without making anyone feel silly. They keep the room engaged without resorting to trust falls or team building exercises that make everyone cringe.

One recent review summed it up: “So fun and practical, but also informative.”

That’s the sweet spot right there.

We Read the Room (And Then Rewrite the Session)

Here’s something that separates us from the “stick to the slides” providers.

We pivot. We adapt. We focus on what actually matters to your people.

Recently at a Brisbane primary school, we spent extra time on anaphylaxis during their workplace first aid training. Why? Because there was a high risk child in the school, and every single teacher and staff member needed to feel confident about what to do. So that’s exactly where we went deep.

That’s not rare for us. That’s normal.

Another example: Teaching our award-winning Street Smart Safety program to Year 10s at a Brisbane private school. The students wanted to talk in depth about addiction and gambling.  You know what? That’s what they wanted to learn. So that’s what we spent more time covering.

Our trainers aren’t just textbook qualified. They’re life qualified.

They’ve got real world experience. They can read the room. They know when to stick to the plan and when to throw it out the window because something else matters more right now.

Cookie-cutter training? Not here. We contextualise everything to your workplace, your people, your actual risks. That’s what makes our first aid training truly award winning.

Because what’s the point of ticking a compliance box if your team doesn’t feel equipped for the emergencies they might actually face?

40,000+ Students Later…

We’ve trained over 40,000 students. That’s a lot of people who now know how to save a life.

Every single one of those students has helped us get better. Their questions shaped our training. Their feedback pushed us to innovate, their success stories remind us why we do this.

The Ipswich Chamber of Commerce Award is incredible. But honestly? The real reward is knowing that someone, somewhere, will respond better in an emergency because they took our course.

Maybe they’ll stay calm during a cardiac arrest. Maybe they’ll remember to check for danger first. Maybe they’ll be the person who makes a difference when it counts.

That’s what makes training award winning.

More Than Just First Aid

Started as first aid specialists? Yes. Stopped there? Absolutely not.

We now offer 40+ courses and programs. First aid and CPR, obviously. But also:

• Accredited Mental Health and Wellbeing Programs
• Workplace Compliance Training
• Workplace First Aid Training
• Programs specifically designed for schools

Why? Because workplace safety isn’t just about knowing CPR. It’s about creating environments where people feel safe, supported, and equipped to handle whatever comes their way.

Physical safety. Mental wellbeing. Practical skills. All wrapped up in workplace training that doesn’t make you want to fake a dentist appointment to get out of it.

What’s Next?

This award has given us a moment to reflect. To celebrate. To high-five our trainers (who are genuinely the best in the business).

But mainly, it’s motivated us to keep doing what we do – just better.

More relevant scenarios. More flexible options. More support for businesses trying to do the right thing by their teams.

Because at the end of the day, awards are nice. But what really matters is whether your team feels confident and capable when it counts.

Want to Experience Award-Winning Training?

We’d love to show you what all the fuss is about.

Whether you need workplace first aid training for 5 people or 250, whether you’re a Brisbane school, an Ipswich construction company, or a corporate office we’ll make it easy, relevant, and dare we say it, enjoyable.

No boring stories. No stressful planning. Just great training that actually works.

Ready to Work With an Award Winning Team?

Call us: 07 3067 9070
Email: info@fasttrainingaustralia.com.au
Book online: www.fasttrainingaustralia.com.au

Secure your preferred dates before they fill up. Let’s keep your workplace safe – and make the training part actually enjoyable.

Because when we all started our businesses, “boring mandatory training” wasn’t exactly the dream. So let’s do it differently.

See you in the training room (where the stories are definitely not boring).

— The Award-Winning Team at F.A.S.T. Training Australia

P.S. If you attended the Chamber of Commerce Awards yes it was nerve racking walking up the stairs to the stage and lets not talk about the risk of dropping the huge glass award!!!

The post Award Winning First Aid Training: Our Ipswich Chamber Success appeared first on FAST Training Australia.

Accidents can happen anywhere—at home, at work, or out and about. Knowing how to respond in an emergency can mean the difference between life and death. That’s why first aid and CPR skills are among the most searched topics online.
People want to know: How do I perform CPR? What do I do if someone is choking? How do I stop severe bleeding?

Did you know t that around 80% of cardiac arrests happen at home. This means you are far more likely to perform
CPR on a family member, friend, or coworker rather than a stranger.

In this blog, we’ll cover the five most searched first aid topics and share essential tips that everyone should know. Whether you’re a parent, a workplace safety officer, or just someone who wants to be prepared, this guide will help you feel more confident in handling emergencies.

1. CPR – Every second counts

CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) is one of the most critical skills in first aid. When someone’s heart stops beating, CPR helps circulate oxygen-rich blood to the brain until professional help arrives.
How to Perform CPR (Adults & Teens)

In an emergency, follow the DRSABCD action plan to assess the situation and provide life-saving care.

1. D – Danger  Check for any dangers to yourself, the casualty, and bystanders (e.g., traffic, fire, electricity).  Only proceed if it is safe to do so.
2. R – Response Tap the person on the shoulder and ask loudly, “Can you hear me?” “Open your eyes!”  If there’s no response, the person is unresponsive, and you need to act quickly.
3. S – Send for Help Call 000 (or ask someone else to call) and explain the situation. If available, ask someone to bring an AED (Automated External Defibrillator).
4. A – Airway Check the airway by tilting the head back and lifting the chin. If there is anything blocking the airway (e.g., food, vomit), roll the person onto their side and clear it with your fingers.
5. B – Breathing  Look, listen, and feel for breathing for no more than 10 seconds.  If the person is not breathing normally (gasping or silent), begin CPR immediately.
6. C – CPR (Compressions & Breaths)  Compressions: Place the heel of one hand in the centre of the chest, place your other hand on top, and push down 1/3 of the chest depth.  Give 30 compressions at a rate of 100-120 per minute. Breaths: Tilt the head back, pinch the nose, give 2 rescue breaths, watching for the chest to rise.  Repeat 30 compressions, 2 breaths until help arrives or the person starts breathing.
7. D – Defibrillation (AED)  If an AED is available, turn it on and follow the voice prompts.  Attach the electrode pads to the person’s chest and ensure no one is touching them before delivering a shock (if advised).

Remember: Even if you’re not confident in giving breaths, hands-only CPR (continuous chest compressions) is still highly effective in keeping the person alive until paramedics arrive!
Did you know? Hands-only CPR can double or triple survival rates if performed immediately after cardiac arrest! Remember any attempt is better than no attempt at all.
Download: Free downloadable DRSABCD poster for your fridge at home or workplace noticeboard

2. Using an Automated External Defibrillator (AED)

AEDs are portable devices that shock the heart back into rhythm. They’re found in workplaces, shopping centres, and public spaces—but would you know how to use one?
How to Use an AED
1. Turn it on – AEDs give voice instructions, so just follow the prompts.
2. Expose the chest – Remove clothing and ensure the chest is dry.
3. Attach the pads – Place one pad on the upper right chest and the other on the lower left side.
4. Let the AED analyse – It will assess the heart rhythm and decide if a shock is needed.
5. Deliver the shock (if prompted) – Make sure no one is touching the patient before pressing the button.
6. Resume CPR – Keep doing chest compressions until help arrives.

Remember: The ‘Send for Help’ step is where you send for resources such as more people to help, a first aid kit and finding a Defibrillator. Setting up the Defib can take some time, unpack and place the pads on the casualty, remember the defib will not shock if a shock is not required, you can’t hurt them

Fact: AEDs are safe to use on adults and children over one year old. If a child-specific pad isn’t available, you can use standard adult pads, place one on the front and one on the back of a child or smaller casualty.

3. Choking – What to Do When Someone Can’t Breathe

Choking is a serious and time-sensitive emergency. If the airway is completely blocked, the person can lose consciousness in minutes. The Australian Resuscitation Council (ARC) provides clear guidelines on how to respond.

How to Help a Choking Adult or Child (Over 1 Year Old)
1. Encourage them to cough – If they are coughing forcefully, let them try to clear the obstruction on their own.
2. Give back blows – If coughing doesn’t work and they are no longer breathing, stand to the side and slightly behind them. Support their chest with one hand and give up to 5 sharp blows between the shoulder blades using the heel of your hand.
3. Perform chest thrusts – If back blows don’t work, give up to 5 chest thrusts. Place your hands in the same position as for CPR (centre of the chest) and push firmly, but slower and sharper than CPR compressions.
4. Call 000 if the blockage remains – Continue alternating 5 back blows and 5 chest thrusts until the object is dislodged or the person becomes unresponsive, you will then start CPR.

Remember: If they are coughing they are breathing! Allow them time to clear the obstruction themselves, keep smiling (remain calm!) encourage them to keep coughing but be prepared to act.

Do NOT use abdominal thrusts (Heimlich manoeuvre) in Australia! They are not recommended due to the risk of internal injury. Chest thrusts are safer and just as effective.

What to Do If a Baby (Under 1 Year Old) Is Choking
1. Lay the baby face down along your forearm, supporting their head.
2. Give up to 5 back blows – Use the heel of your hand between their shoulder blades.
3. Turn them over and give up to 5 chest thrusts – Place two fingers in the centre of their chest (just below the nipple line) and push firmly.
4. Repeat as needed and call 000 if the obstruction is not cleared.

Remember: Infants will test their gag reflex; it may sound like they are choking but remember if they are coughing they are breathing.

Fact: A common cause of choking in children is small objects like coins, toys, and food items such as grapes and popcorn. Always supervise young children while eating.

Download: Free downloadable choking poster for home or the workplace

4. First Aid for Burns and Scalds

Burns are one of the most common household injuries, whether from hot drinks, cooking mishaps, or even sunburn.

What to Do for Burns
1. Cool the burn – Run cool (not ice-cold) water over it for at least 20 minutes.
2. Remove tight clothing/jewellery – Swelling can happen fast.
3. Cover the burn – Use a clean, non-stick dressing or cling wrap (but not over the face).
4. Do NOT use butter, toothpaste, or creams – These can trap heat and worsen the burn.
5. Seek medical help if the burn is deep, larger than a 20-cent piece, or affects sensitive areas like the face or hands.

Fact: In Australia, hot beverages are the number one cause of scalds in children under five! Always keep cups out of reach.

Download: Free downloadable Burns poster for home or the workplace.

5. Controlling Bleeding and Wound Care

Whether it’s a paper cut or a deep gash, proper wound care can prevent infection and save a life.

How to Stop Bleeding
1. Apply pressure – Use a clean cloth or bandage and press firmly.
2. Apply a bandage – Secure with a sterile dressing.
3. Do NOT remove embedded objects – Instead, pad around them and get medical help.
4. Seek help – If bleeding doesn’t stop after 10 minutes, call 000.

Did you know? The average adult has about 5 litres of blood, and losing just 1.5 litres can cause shock. Quick action is critical.

Download: Free downloadable Burns poster for home or the workplace.

Workplace First Aid – Legal Requirements

Under Australian workplace health and safety laws, businesses must have adequate first aid training, supplies, and emergency procedures in place. Employers are required to:
– Ensure sufficient number trained first aid staff based on ratio requirements. Remember to take into account people may be off site, on holidays or out getting a coffee. Better to be over than under.
– Have a fully stocked first aid kit that is easily accessible. Remember to check and top up your kit regularly, a good time is after an incident replace what was used or once a month do a check.
– Conduct regular first aid training to stay compliant and up to date.
-For businesses: We offer onsite first aid training that’s fast, fun, and relevant to your workplace. Get a quote today, we guarantee fast, fun and relevant training!

Download: Learn more Worksafe Act Code of Practice, or call us for a free consultation.

Why First Aid Training is a Must-Have Skill

Emergencies can happen anytime, anywhere. Learning first aid means you’ll be prepared to help a colleague, friend, or family member when they need it most. Whether it’s CPR, treating burns, or stopping bleeding, knowing what to do could save a life.
Ready to learn first aid?
We offer public CPR and First Aid courses in Ipswich and onsite workplace training in South East Queensland tailored to your team.

Don’t forget to download our FREE Posters for the Top 5 Most Searched First Aid Topics

Book a course for an individual
Get a group quote

The post Top 5 Most Searched First Aid Topics – You asked for it! appeared first on FAST Training Australia.

We understand that meeting compliance is important and non-negotiable in the landscape of business to maintain your operations. However, workplace compliance isn’t just about ticking boxes; it’s important to understand that it is about building a brighter, safer future for your organisation and for your workers.

First Aid Compliance is much more than ‘ticking a box’

We know that your time is precious and that it is important to accelerate workplace compliance, but not lose the value of dedicated learning time for your workers to build the necessary skills to manage in an emergency and to foster a culture of safety, efficiency, plus trust within your organisation. This is where accelerating compliance comes into play, offering a myriad of benefits that extend beyond mere regulatory obligations.

If you are short on time, look for ways to speed up your compliance

Understanding Compliance in the Modern Context

Compliance encompasses a broad spectrum of requirements, ranging from health and safety protocols to industry-specific regulations. In today’s business environment, staying up to date in these standards is paramount (and let’s be honest, not always easy!) Failure to comply not only exposes your business to legal risks and financial penalties but can also tarnish your reputation and erode customer trust.

The Case for Accelerating Compliance

The ability to expedite compliance processes can be a game-changer for businesses.

Here’s why:

1. Competitive Edge

Accelerating compliance gives your business a competitive edge by enabling you to respond swiftly to evolving regulatory landscapes and industry trends.

In today’s world, we need to work smarter. Accelerating Compliance makes good business sense.

2. Risk Mitigation

Compliance delays can leave your business vulnerable to various risks, including legal liabilities, workplace accidents, and reputational damage.

The focus should be on eliminating or minimising risk

By expediting compliance procedures, you minimise these risks, creating a safer and more secure environment for your employees and stakeholders.

3. Operational Efficiency

Streamlining compliance processes enhances operational efficiency, freeing up valuable time and resources that can be allocated to core business activities. With faster compliance turnaround times, you can optimise productivity, reduce overhead costs, and drive bottom-line results.

Free up your time by getting smarter with your approach to compliance

4. Enhanced Employee Morale and Engagement

Investing in compliance demonstrates your commitment to employee well-being and professional development. This is where you see the greatest benefits.

Its an all-encompassing approach to also include well-being programs

By offering comprehensive first aid training and mental health programs, you empower your workforce with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive in both professional AND personal capacities. This not only boosts employee morale but also fosters a culture of care and support within your organisation.

The Role of Customised Workplace Training Programs

One of the most effective strategies for accelerating compliance is through customised workplace training programs tailored to meet the unique needs of your organisation.

Here’s how:

1. Flexibility and Adaptability

Custom-designed training programs offer flexibility and adaptability, allowing you to address specific compliance requirements and operational challenges facing your business. We can offer blended learning approaches, so you can choose the delivery methods that best suit your organisational context and learning objectives.

2. Targeted Solutions

By partnering with a trusted provider of first aid and mental health programs, you gain access to expertise and insights tailored to your industry and regulatory environment. There have been significant changes in WHS laws regarding psychosocial risks.

This enables you to implement targeted solutions that address compliance gaps and mitigate potential risks more effectively.

3. Continuous Improvement

Accelerating compliance is not a one-time endeavour. We have clients who we see year on year, as they make an ongoing commitment to excellence. It is exciting to see their growth and their teams thrive.

We feel privileged to have the same clients return year on year and see first hand the personal growth

Through continuous monitoring, evaluation, and feedback, you can refine your training programs, adapt to emerging challenges, and stay proactive in your compliance efforts.

How F.A.S.T. First Aid can help you with your Workplace Compliance

We can work with you to understand what your needs and goals are.

We can also help you with strategies to accelerate compliance – as a catalyst for sustainable growth and success.

Contact us today to learn more about our comprehensive range of workplace training programs and courses including first aid training and mental health programs. Discover how we can help your business thrive, boost your workplace morale making meeting compliance easy.

Learn More about Workplace Training

The post Workplace Compliance: Accelerate Your Business’s Success appeared first on FAST Training Australia.

In recent years, a concerning trend has emerged with an increasing number of our young population experiencing heart attacks. Once thought to primarily affect older adults, heart disease is now impacting younger demographics at an alarming rate. As a leading provider of first aid solutions, we believe it’s crucial to shed light on this issue and explore the factors contributing to this concerning trend.

What’s your risk?

The baseline risk in Australia for people under 35 is 1.3 per 100,000 people per year, with 15% occurring either during or immediately after exercise. (Heart Foundation)

What’s changing for young people to be affected by Heart Attacks? Could this be YOU?

Unhealthy Lifestyle Habits

One of the primary drivers behind the rising risk of heart attacks among young people is the prevalence of unhealthy lifestyle habits. Poor dietary choices, characterised by the consumption of processed foods high in saturated fats, sugars, and sodium, contribute to obesity, high cholesterol levels, and hypertension – all significant risk factors for heart disease.

Whilst these foods may be okay on occasion, it is about your day to day diet

We’ve also seen a significant rise in consumption of energy drinks, which is having a negative impact on health.

Sedentary Behaviours

In an era dominated by technology and desk-bound jobs, many young individuals lead sedentary lives. Hours spent sitting, coupled with minimal physical activity, pave the way for cardiovascular issues.

Not only are days spent at an office desk, night time and weekends are often spent behind a gaming console.

Lack of exercise not only contributes to obesity but also weakens the heart muscle, increasing susceptibility to heart attacks.

Substance Abuse and Stress

Smoking, drug abuse, and excessive alcohol consumption wreak havoc on the cardiovascular system, damaging blood vessels and increasing the likelihood of heart attacks.

Lifestyle factors can result in negative impacts to health which may lead to heart attack

Moreover, young people today face unprecedented levels of stress from various sources – academic pressures, financial worries, and social expectations. Chronic stress elevates blood pressure and promotes unhealthy coping mechanisms , compounding the risk of heart disease.

Genetic Predisposition and Undiagnosed Conditions

While lifestyle factors play a significant role, genetic predispositions cannot be overlooked. You may have seen in the media, some very athletic and sporty individuals who have experienced a heart attack and some unfortunately whom have not survived.

Seeing your GP regularly for health checks is important

Some young individuals may have a family history of heart disease, heightening their susceptibility to cardiac events. Additionally, undiagnosed medical conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol often fly under the radar, increasing the risk of heart attacks among young people.

Environmental Factors

Environmental influences, including air pollution and exposure to toxins, further exacerbate the risk of heart disease among young individuals. These external factors, combined with internal vulnerabilities, create a perfect storm for cardiovascular complications.

Where you live or work can impact your health

Empowering Prevention and Intervention

As advocates for health and safety, it’s imperative that we empower young people with the knowledge and tools to protect their cardiovascular health. Encouraging healthy lifestyle choices – nutritious eating, regular exercise, and stress management – forms the cornerstone of prevention.

Managing stress is an important measure for good health

Equally important is early detection through routine health check-ups and screenings, allowing for timely intervention and treatment.

The rising prevalence of heart attacks among young people serves as a wake-up call, highlighting the urgency of prioritising cardiovascular health from an early age. By fostering a culture of wellness, promoting healthy habits, and advocating for proactive healthcare, we can stem the tide of heart disease and ensure a healthier future for generations to come.

Prioritising health from an early age is key

At F.A.S.T. we aim to share information to increase knowledge to respond effectively in emergencies, including cardiac events. Time is critical in terms of First Aid response and every minute matters!

Reach out to book a CPR course with us today.

The post Heart Attacks in Young People are Rising – Could YOU be at Risk? appeared first on FAST Training Australia.

Our top 10 reasons why you should learn CPR!

1. Save a Life

First and most important reason?

Three simple words – It saves lives!

Save a life – it could be someone you know and love. It’s time to take steps to learn CPR!

Do you need any more reasons?

2. Awareness of CPR is still low!

Despite this incredibly important reason, CPR awareness remains relatively low.

Who will you be saving exactly?

Would you be surprised to know that 95% of the time that you are required to perform CPR, it will be on someone you know or someone you love.

Picture that!

This might be your son, your mum, your workmate, your baby, your sports buddy.

What if your baby needed CPR? Would you be prepared?

• Would you know what to do?
• How would you feel if it happened and you didn’t have the skills?
• Isn’t this reason alone to learn CPR?

Having CPR skills means you shall be prepared to help anyone in a life-threatening situation.

3. CPR helps in readiness for use of an AED (Defibrillator)

The whole aim of CPR is to keep the person’s blood circulating and oxygen flowing from lungs to brain. Once the heart stops beating, then brain death occurs within 4 – 6 minutes. That’s a scary thought and not a lot of time, so it is crucial to commence CPR as quickly as possible.

Brain death occurs between 4 – 6 minutes – TIME is crucial!

Are you aware of the locations of AED’s?

You may notice these days that many shopping centres, clubs, airports, train stations and some larger workplaces have an AED in place. Look around next time you are out and about.

Applying a defib to a casualty requiring CPR increases the person’s chance of survival from 10% to 80%.

Often critical first aid response is not offered to the person, instead awaiting on emergency services to arrive and in many cases it’s all too late. Taking action straight away is key.

Using a Defib increases a person’s chance of survival from 10% to 80%. Is there one at your workplace?

You can make all the difference by learning CPR.

4. It’s easier than you think

One of the reasons that people shy away from learning CPR is that they feel it may be too hard. Would you be surprised to know that this is a skill that can be virtually learned at any age.

In fact many organisations are promoting children as young as aged 5 to learn this skill. At F.A.S.T. we train teens, families and of course many workers in workplaces and those in higher risk industries such as electricians, however the point is that anyone can do this.

Yes, that means YOU can do this!

We do offer an Allergy Awareness program to junior school aged children that empowers them with life saving information regarding asthma, anaphylaxis and CPR.

We also support high risk industries with Low Voltage Rescue and CPR training

CPR is kept up to date by refreshing annually as part of your First Aid qualifications, however, can also be done as stand-alone training.

At F.A.S.T. , we feel it is incredibly important to ensure training is relatable and that you walk away feeling confident about your newfound skills.

Our goal is to make it fun, interactive and to learn skills you can transfer into real life.

5. You don’t have to do mouth-to-mouth?

Yes, that’s right! Is that surprising?

There are some exceptions to this (e.g. for children and for drowning incidents) however you can do compressions only. Perhaps people shy away from learning the skill due to this. Not everyone is a fan of performing the ‘kiss of life’ particularly to a stranger! There is important information you need to know about timings and technique, however you shall learn this in your CPR training.

6. CPR is needed for someone after cardiac arrest

According to the Heart Foundation heart attacks are responsible for causing 1 in 25 of all deaths – that’s really alarming! Let’s put that into perspective. We are talking about 19 people on average a day losing their life to heart attack.

In Australia, 19 people lose their lives each day to Heart Attack

Considerably more males die from heart attack than females. (Heart Foundation)

When people think about heart attacks though, they often relate this to age and believe that it is something that only happens to the older community.

This is simply not the case.

Heart attacks affect our younger generation too. CPR is the primary lifesaving skill needed to support someone who has had a cardiac arrest.

Positively, the prevalence of heart attacks has been decreasing over time as more education and knowledge is shared.

7. You’ll improve your modern music knowledge

What the!?

If you have done CPR courses previously, you may be familiar with keeping the compression tempo in line with the Bee Gees “Staying Alive”. As times move on, we try to keep more relevant and many of our young ones simply may not be as familiar with the Bee Gees!!

Who would have thought!

In the last couple of years timings of compressions have been more updated and typically themed with “Baby Shark” the first verse is 110 beats per minute, which is an ideal rate for CPR!

Australian Red Cross has recognised the need to update the music themes for CPR timing, from the Disco era and launched the ‘Next Gen Life Beats’ campaign in search of the best timed beats.

So far the songs in the running for inclusion are:-

1. Dua Lipa: Dance the night
2. Harry Styles: Late Night Talking
3. Taylor Swift: The Man
4. Kylie Minogue: Padam Padam

Keep tuned and we will update you on the outcome. The aim should be between 100 to 120 chest compressions per minute.

Personally, I am not a fan of attaching a song to a traumatic situation. Yes it lightens a very dark topic in a classroom environment, but songs can trigger PTSD. From experience you will be lucky to remember how to count let alone the words to a song!!!

8. Doing something IS better than doing nothing

“Any attempt is better than no attempt at all” Australian Resuscitation Council of Australia.

Do you agree if your death was imminent you would be happy if someone had a go at CPR? I know I would be!

Doing something IS better than……doing nothing!

Be confident knowing that the Good Samaritan Act in Australia covers you in the event you need to provide first aid or CPR. It covers you, as long as you stay in the scope of your training or have followed instructions from the 000 operator. If you go all McGyver or start free-styling it, you wont be covered.

9. Be a part of change

It is thought only 26% of Australians are trained in CPR. That means we have a very large skill gap of 74% of Australians who have not yet learned these critical lifesaving skills yet.

You can be a part of the change.

Book now to be part of the change!

Instead of looking to a bystander for critical lifesaving skills, you can learn CPR and make a difference.

10. The First Aid in the Workplace Code of Practice was updated in 2021

This Code of Practice on first aid in the workplace is an approved code of practice under section 274 of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (the WHS Act). It was updated in 2021 to provide very specific guidance on supporting workplaces with understanding First Aid requirements in Queensland workplaces.

The Code of Practice now recommends the following ratio’s:

• Low Risk Workplaces – one first aider for every 50 workers
• High Risk Workplaces – one first aider for every 25 workers
• Remote High-Risk Workplaces – one first aider for every 10 workers.

Remember, when you undertake a First Aid course, this includes CPR training, so all First Aid Officers will also have knowledge of administration of CPR.

CPR is required to be refreshed annually.

Now you know the 10 important reasons why you should learn CPR, you should make this your year!

Courses:

HLTAID009 – Provide Cardiopulmonary resuscitation
HLTAID011 – Provide First Aid
HLTAID012 – Provide First Aid in an education and care setting
UETDRRF004 – Perform rescue from a live LV panel

Connect with us so we can understand your needs, to help you or your business today.  Our mission is to make training as painless as possible for our course organisers and fun and engaging for our students.

Book a Course – Learn CPR Today:

The post Learn CPR! 10 Important Reasons why YOU should appeared first on FAST Training Australia.

Imagine you are out and about browsing through Bunnings Warehouse, then all of a sudden you see a grey curtain falling across your eyes like a final curtain call – would you know you are having a stroke!?

Imagine your partner turns to you and asks you a question…..

• you can hear your partner
• you can see your partner, however
• your ability to respond is completely, utterly frozen. You are simply unable to speak – like a disconnect between the brain to the mouth.

Your partner starts to look at you inquiringly and repeat what they have said – thinking you are simply ignoring them!

Would you know what’s happening?

Would your partner recognise the signs?

Would you just ignore this if it passed, and everything seemed to go back to normal after a couple of minutes?

This was what happened in the case of a friend of mine. Exactly that scenario, in fact a similar scenario had happened twice before, and he had ignored the tell-tale warning signs of a TIA (i.e. a mini-stroke).

What next?… What would you do?

The key to recognition and treatment is acting F.A.S.T!

Let’s dispel the 10 myths about Stroke right up front.

Myth 1: Strokes are rare

FACT: They are not rare at all, in fact according to the Stroke Foundation of Australia ‘there were 27,428 Australians who experienced stroke for the first time in their lives in 2020, which equates to 1 every 19 minutes! More than 445,087 Australians are living with the effects of stroke’

With obesity on the rise, it has having greater impact to more people and younger age groups than ever seen before.

Myth 2: Strokes only happen to people who are older/elderly

FACT: They can happen to any age group. That includes a baby, child or teen! The risks do increase with age and studies indicate the risk doubles for each decade between the age of 55 and 85. In the case of my friend, he was in his early 40’s. A dad in the UK saved his 9-month-old baby as he recognised the signs early.

Stroke risks

Did you know energy drinks can actually cause a stroke?

Myth 3: Nothing can be done to prevent a stroke

FACT: Yes there is! Keep your health checks up to date (Diabetes, Cholesterol, Weight management, Blood Pressure). If you have had any seemingly strange episodes like the ones described above, you need to see your doctor and tell them about your experiences.

Review your lifestyle factors to:

• Reduce alcohol consumption. Drinking in moderation is key.
• Call it quits on the ciggies (and/or Vaping!)
• Keep active
• Choose a healthier diet
• Give up the drug scene.
• Reduce stress levels

Myth 4: The tell-tale sign is pain

FACT: Pain is not a sole determining factor. As you can see in the case of my friend, pain was not a symptom. You may experience a headache with an ischemic stroke, however that isn’t always the case.

Be aware of the common symptoms.

They include:

• Weakness or numbness
• Paralysis in the face, arm or leg (you may see one side of the face droop)
• Difficulty speaking or understanding what is being said
• Blackened, blurred or double vision
• Dizziness or a loss of balance, loss of co-ordination.
• Pain (such as a headache that may be sudden and severe – this may result in vomiting and the person falling unconscious)

Myth 5: Strokes can’t be treated

FACT: There are 3 main types

1. Ischemic stroke
2. Hemorrhagic stroke
3. Transient Ischemic attack (a warning or “mini-stroke” – this is the type my friend experienced)

Each one is a medical emergency and accessing emergency medical treatment as quickly as possible may mean the difference between death, life-long disability and being able to recover well. The longer that you wait, the more damage to the brain cells. Treatment varies and affects individuals differently, however they can be treated. The treatment provided shall depend on the type that has occurred.

Immediate treatment may minimize the long-term effects of a stroke and even prevent death

Myth 6: A stroke takes place in the heart

FACT: Many people think that a stroke happens in the heart, and this is one of the biggest misconceptions. It occurs when the blood supply to an area is reduced or interrupted. Your brain cells require regular blood flow and the nutrients and oxygen in the blood to survive/function. A stroke occurs when the blood supply to the neurons is cut off and as a result, a blood clot or disease of the blood vessels develops causing the neurons to die.

Myth 7: Strokes aren’t hereditary

FACT: There is evidence that family history may play a role in the increased risk of stroke. Typically, this more so relates to family history of high blood pressure and other related conditions that increase the risks. There are several genetic disorders though that can cause a stroke. Be sure to share information about any family history with your doctor for a full medical assessment.

Remember also that if you have had one stroke, your chances of having another remain high. A complete review of your lifestyle, diet and health management is in order. Factor in alleviating stress triggers, which also has impact to your overall health.

Myth 8: Strokes don’t require treatment (especially if only mild)

FACT: All strokes are a medical emergency. Acting F.A.S.T. is critical to the outcome. No matter how mild or if seemingly a quick recovery, it still requires rapid medical attention.

Call 000 in every instance

F.A.S.T. is the acronym that is used to educate people about the signs of stroke….

F – Has their face dropped?
A – Can they lift both arms?
S – Is there speech slurred?
T – Call 000, Time is critical!

The benefit of calling Paramedics is that they can provide the emergency support en-route to the emergency department. If you are calling 000, be sure to describe what symptoms you are seeing.

Do you notice the naming is the same as our brand? There’s no coincidence there – it’s all about F.A.S.T. first aid!

Myth 9: Smoking doesn’t increase your risk for stroke

FACT: I would like to tell you this is different; however, smoking is not only a known risk factor, it is the biggest risk factor, particularly in younger people. Now is the time to give them up. Save your health and save your dollars!

What about Vaping? That’s healthier right?

I think it’s time to sort out the facts from the fiction here. Vaping still presents serious health risks, including risk for strokes, lung disease and heart disease. Somewhere along the line, there has been misconception about Vaping and E-Cigarettes. If you want more information, head to Vape Truths. (also includes how to quit

Giving up is hard, don’t estimate just how hard. If you want support, head to Qld Health for tips and advice on how to free yourself of the habit and quit for good! If you are reading this blog and want to know how to help your loved one quit, head to ‘helping someone quit’.

Smoking risks and stroke

Myth 10: Take aspirin at the onset of stroke symptoms

FACT: If you googled this one, there is conflicting information everywhere about this! The thing is, not all are caused by blood clots, so taking aspirin could potentially make bleeding strokes more severe if the stroke was caused by ruptured blood vessels. Avoid taking aspirin at the onset of symptoms. Be guided by emergency services.

Dispel Myths about Strokes, Learn the Signs and Symptoms, understanding how to act F.A.S.T. and you could potentially safe a lie.

Download the F.A.S.T. Stroke Guide:  Quick tips on knowing what to do in the event of a Stroke.

First Aid Courses in Ipswich:  LEARN MORE/BOOK NOW.

Enquire about our Workplace Onsite Training: YES WE COME TO YOU!, Fast, Efficient and Relatable workplace training. GET A QUOTE

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Diabetes mellitus references a group of diseases that affect how the body uses body sugar (glucose). It is often simply referred to as Diabetes.

We all need glucose to function. We rely on it as an important source of energy for our cells that make up our body’s muscles and tissues.

Whether you have Type 1, Type 2 diabetes or Gestational diabetes (during pregnancy), it can lead to excess sugar in the blood. Know the Signs for Diabetes!

When too much sugar is in the blood, this can lead to serious health problems and should not be ignored! Always seek medical attention.

There are 11 Tell-tale signs that you may be developing Diabetes or indicators that your body is being affected.

Let’s talk about the warning signs – the fastest growing chronic condition in Australia

These include:

• Inexplicable loss of weight
• Feeling unusually hungry all the time – we are talking extreme hunger
• Unusual and unquenchable thirst
• Feeling fatigued, tired or weak
• Urinating frequently (typically lots of times during the night)
• Mood swings/irritability
• Change in vision such as blurriness.
• Being slow to heal from cuts, abrasions, and sores.
• The presence of infections such as skin, vaginal and gum infections.
• Very dry or itchy skin
• Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet.

An early warning sign is an unquenchable thirst

Do you know your risk for developing Diabetes? Diabetes Australia has created a Diabetes Risk Calculator.

Find out your risk – how’s it looking?

Type 2 diabetes is the fastest growing chronic condition in Australia (Source – Diabetes Australia). Onset usually occurs after the age of 40 and in some cases may be reversed through a holistic program of healthy eating, weight management, undertaking suitable physical activity and addressing other health issues.

Take a good look at your eating – is it as healthy as it could be?

How healthy do you think you are?

• Do you need a health check?
• Do you need a helping hand?
• Do you need some insight?

The Queensland Government runs a free My Health for Life program (ie. free for Queenslanders). All funded by the Qld government – no contract or fees.

So no excuses then?

In 2021, an estimated 1 in 20 (just over 1.3 Million) Australians were living with diabetes (Source: aihw.gov.au)

Alarmingly, this number grows every year!

Here’s a chance for you to look more carefully at your health.

If you would like to learn more  – head over to our blog – Diabetes – 8 Things every Australia should know!

The post Do you have Diabetes? 11 Tell-tale Signs appeared first on FAST Training Australia.

Education and learning new skills are incredibly important. We only need to ask our educators that!

As parents and carers, we send our children off to day care, kindy, prep, primary or high school to learn skills that will hold them in good stead for a lifetime. We trust that our educators have the skills, confidence and professionalism to support our children to navigate the curriculum. First aid compliance in schools is highly important.

What about the first aid compliance requirements to be prepared in schools?

• Who educates the educators?
• How do they stay current with their skills?
• What do they need to know?

Who educates the educators? Teachers are often in the position as first responders.

Do you recall the tragic incident in 2017? – whereby a young 5-year-old student with special needs (who often mouthed foods and objects) choked on a nectarine stone and died whilst at school. An inquest was held in 2022, to prompt questions about the requirements for first aid compliance in schools and whether the teachers were able to effectively respond.

“A staggering 94% of Australians are unsure of their ability to help in an emergency”

Every workplace in Australia, including the education sector are required to:

Let’s explore this in more detail to review the requirements for first aid compliance in schools and education settings and what that exactly means for educators.

• Provide First Aid equipment
• Ensure each worker at the workplace has access to the equipment
• Provide access to facilities for administering first aid
• Provide an adequate number of workers that are trained to administer first aid, or workers to have access to an adequate number of other people who have been trained to administer first aid.

(Source: WHSQ, First Aid in the Workplace Code of Practice 2021)

Access to equipment:

Think first about the vast variety of situations in an education setting where equipment may need to be on hand, to respond effectively. (this list is not exhaustive!)

• Swimming carnivals
• Classrooms such as Industrial Skills, Science Labs, Hospitality
• Playgrounds
• Camps/Excursions
• Sporting carnivals
• Sports Days/Inter School Sports
• Special Needs Classrooms
• School Pick Up/Drop off

What does the Code of Practice say?

The Code of Practice also requires workplaces to determine ‘an adequate number of workers’ that are trained to administer first aid.

The following ratio’s are recommended:

• Low Risk Workplaces – one first aider for every 50 workers
• High Risk Workplaces – one first aider for every 25 workers.
• Remote High-Risk Workplaces – one first aider for every 10 workers

Let’s crunch some numbers (these figures taken from the 2019 Annual Report for Ipswich State High School, Qld)

• 1763 students
• 131 teachers
• 76 non-teaching staff

Perhaps you are thinking 207 teachers and non-teaching staff (workers) in this example. If the school/education setting was ‘low risk’ – that equates to approx. 4 First Aid Officers required.

What do you think?

Let’s go back to the Code of Practice to delve further.

“When considering the size of your workforce, you should include contractors, subcontractors and volunteers you engage. This may mean the size of your workforce may vary over time. For the purposes of deciding who requires access to first aid, you should consider the maximum number of workers you may engage at one time. Generally, a larger workforce requires more first aid resources”

We can see that we also need to include other ‘workers’ into our consideration of factoring first aid requirements.

Is there more to include? … You should also consider:

• the particular needs of workers who have a disability or a known health concern for example asthma or allergies, and
• others at your workplace who are not your workers, for example:

(Source: WHSQ, First Aid in the Workplace Code of Practice 2021)

Let’s go back to our original numbers.

The figure we need to realistically consider in establishing the appropriate numbers of first aid officers is:

1970 (as you need to factor the number of people which includes students too, in the ‘work’ area).

This is the number of people we include in your First Aid Risk Assessment. We now move to the next stage which is an understanding of the risks within your school/educational setting:

Does your school/educational setting have:

• Children or teachers diagnosed with anaphylaxis?
• Children or teachers diagnosed with asthma?
• Children identified with special needs and/or on regular medication?
• Students who play contact sport?
• Teachers that are managing high risk behaviours?

Now think of the environment:

• Does the setting have an on-site pool?
• Located on a main road?
• Multi storey building with difficulty accessing site/lots of stairs?
• Provide cooking/hospitality classes, industrial skills classes, science labs?
• Is it in a remote regional/rural setting?
• What is the distance to medical help, distance to a hospital?
• What is the expected response times for arrival of emergency services?

Remember to add:

• What kind of incidents have happened in the last 12 months?

“Injuries are the leading cause of death in Australian children, accounting for nearly half of all deaths” – Australian Bureau of Statistics

Essentially you are determining a first aid risk assessment to ascertain:

• What First Aid equipment you need (including epi-pens, Ventolin, spacers, AED’s)
• How many First Aid Officers you require to be able to effectively respond.
• Where you require First Aid Equipment and facilities (portable, fixed, available in vehicles etc)

Once you have conducted a First Aid Risk Assessment to include all of the above, then the compliance for your schools will be better understood.

There may be overarching requirements specific to your school/educational setting documented further in school or centre policies and these should be referred to for guidance and included in your Risk Assessment.

Often education settings have very specific requirements for both the training and equipment requirements for effective response of anaphylaxis and asthma.

“Unintentional injuries account for about 88% of all injury related deaths in children and about 97% of all injury related hospitalisations”

Australian Institute of Health and Welfare:

There is very specific compliance requirements for Child Care Centres and Child Care settings. Check compliance requirements for Child Care Centres/Child Care Settings. Refer to the national regulations at the Australian Children’s Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) for more information.

At F.A.S.T. Training Australia, school based training is one of our specialties.

• Do you find it a bit confusing? (it can be!!)
• Do you require support?
• Do you need help with undertaking or completing your First Aid risk assessment?

Sarah Shaw, owner of F.A.S.T. First Aid Training and Workplace Training understands the importance of accurately ascertaining first aid officer ratio’s and ensuring adequate equipment is available in the event of an emergency. Sarah offers complimentary consultations to all businesses, to support them in making the best decision for their environment.

Sarah would be happy to meet with you and discuss your needs and/or potential first aid equipment needs.

Reach out today to book your complimentary consultation. We look forward to meeting with you.

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