When people hear the term “first aid,” many immediately think of traffic accidents and car crashes. But accidents can also happen in everyday work life, even in a “safe office.” Or your employee might suffer a heart attack at their desk, and you’re alone in the room with them. Do you know what to do?
Every driver had to complete what’s known as “life-saving emergency measures” training before getting their driver’s license; companies are also required to provide regular training. But let’s be honest—how long has it been since you took that first-aid course?
Many people (including those in companies) believe that only emergency medical services and paramedics are responsible for providing assistance in the event of an accident. However, the first few minutes—until emergency services arrive—are often extremely important. This time can be crucial in determining the severity of the accident’s consequences or even the injured person’s survival.
Legal Obligation
Even without medical training— everyone can and must help.
What absolutely anyone can do is secure the accident scene, call emergency services, and comfort the injured. These actions are also considered immediate measures at the scene of an accident and are incredibly important for those involved. What’s more, according to Section 323 of the Criminal Code (StGB), everyone is obligated to provide assistance. Anyone who fails to provide assistance in the event of an accident or emergency can be punished by law with imprisonment for up to one year or a fine.
The financialLegal Situation of First Responders
First responders are not responsible for covering costs—even if they call for emergency services with good intentions but those services are ultimately not needed. For example, you find an unconscious person and call for an ambulance. By the time the paramedics arrive, the person has regained consciousness and no longer needs assistance. You will not be asked to pay for the call, since you fulfilled your duty as a first responder entirely correctly, and no one can expect you to have medical expertise.
Don’t worry about follow-up costs
Every first responder is automatically insured by law against bodily injury. Property damage and out-of-pocket expenses are also generally covered by the insurance policies of the parties involved in the accident. Even if, in the heat of the moment, a first-aid procedure is not performed correctly, a layperson providing first aid cannot be prosecuted for it.
So, don’t hesitate to administer first aid or call an ambulance. Better to be safe than sorry! Every company must take the necessary steps to ensure that first aid can be administered safely and that professional help arrives quickly.
Take action! What does your company need to do? Are first-aid kits, checklists, and phone numbers clearly visible and within easy reach?
This is also relevant to you on a personal level: perhaps this article will inspire you to consider taking a first-aid course? A refresher course gives you confidence and can save lives! Courses start at just 30 euros and are often even covered by your employer.
Just feel free to reach out to me—I’d be happy to answer your questions!
Sincerely, Sebastian Heisig, TFU Team
