When an emergency strikes at work, hesitation costs the most. This guide gives you the clear, calm sequence — DR ABC, CPR and the recovery position — so you can step in and help before the professionals arrive.
Why seconds count
Without oxygen, the brain is harmed within minutes. Early CPR and a fast call for help are the two things that most improve survival.
Awareness across your team means someone always knows what to do.
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
Follow DR ABC in order. Tap each step to explore it.
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 to recognise
Recognising which situation you're facing tells you exactly how to respond.
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.
Dial 112 or 999 immediately — getting help moving is the single most important step.
Four critical moves
The essential 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.
The legal position in Ireland
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