New first aid rules are applicable to all private sector employers

At a glance

• Under new rules issued by the Health Ministry, all workplaces in Bahrain must now have staff trained in first aid. These requirements are set out in Ministerial Decision No. 16 of 2025.
• One trained first aider must be available for every 20 workers, with their certification and details logged on-site.
• Each site must be prepared to handle medical emergencies, with designated staff to manage supplies and liaise with inspectors.
• Workplaces must maintain fully stocked, accessible first aid and have a clear emergency plan including ambulance contacts and clinic maps.

Under new rules issued by the Health Ministry, all workplaces in Bahrain must now have staff trained in first aid. These requirements are set out in Ministerial Decision No. 16 of 2025.

Key obligations for private sector employers include:

• Each individual site must be equipped to handle emergencies. If an employee becomes ill or is injured, help must be called immediately.
• One trained first aider is required for every 20 workers. Their name must be recorded and kept on-site.
• First aiders must hold a recognised certificate confirming they have completed at least one first aid course.
• Another employee must be designated to check first aid supplies and liaise with inspectors.
• Workplaces must have first aid boxes containing all items listed in the Ministerial Order. These must be easy to locate and checked regularly to ensure all items are usable. One box is required for every 100 workers.
• Employers must have an emergency plan in place. This should include ambulance contact details, maps showing the nearest clinic, and clearly marked exit routes.