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 yourself safe, and know the simple sequence that keeps someone alive. This guide walks through 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, confident action — calling for help and starting CPR — dramatically improves survival.
That's why every workplace needs people who know what to do, not just a green box on the wall.
This is an awareness guide, not a substitute for hands-on training. Always call the emergency services first, and complete a 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 for each 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 112 or 999 before anything else (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 expects
Under Part 7 (Chapter 2) of the General Application Regulations 2007Irish employers must assess and provide adequate first-aid cover, including trained Occupational First Aiders (PHECC-certified) where needed. In an emergency, call 112 or 999. 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