How Many First Aiders Do You Need for Your Event?
When organising an event — whether a small community fair or a large festival — ensuring adequate first aid cover is one of the most important safety decisions you’ll make. Guidance commonly used in the events industry, including principles from The Purple Guide, helps organisers estimate how many first aiders they should plan for.
Why first aid staffing cannot be “one size fits all”
There is no absolute legal minimum number of first aiders required for events.
Recommended first aid cover is determined by a risk assessment, which should consider:
Event type
Venue layout and access
Crowd size
Demographics
Duration
Activities involved (sports, alcohol, high-risk elements)
Weather and environmental conditions
Proximity to emergency services
Two events with the same number of attendees may require very different medical plans depending on their risk level.
Basic Recommendations from The Purple Guide
Below are commonly used starting-point guidelines for determining how many first aiders you need:
| Event type / size / risk level | Suggested first aid cover |
|---|---|
| Small, low-risk events (under ~500 people) | Minimum 2 first aiders |
| Low-to-medium risk (up to ~1,000–3,000 people) | Roughly 2 first aiders per 1,000 attendees |
| Medium to large events with moderate risk | Increased numbers; consider first responders or paramedics; at least one first aid station |
| Large or high-risk events (festivals, late-night events, sporting events, alcohol-heavy events, remote locations) | Full medical provision — may require paramedics, ambulance units, treatment centres and detailed medical planning |
A universal rule applies: never fewer than two first aiders, even at the smallest events.
Why a Risk Assessment Matters More Than Headcount
Relying solely on crowd size can lead to poor planning. A proper risk assessment considers:
Nature of activities
Sporting events, concerts, and events involving alcohol drastically increase medical risk.
Audience profile
Children, elderly people, or individuals with mobility issues may require higher levels of care.
Venue characteristics
Indoor vs outdoor, standing vs seated, terrain, crowd density and access for emergency vehicles all influence the level of provision you need.
Duration and timing
Multi-day events or late-night events usually require more medical support.
History and known risks
Past incidents or known challenges should inform your planning.
Because every event is different, first aid provision must be tailored, not based on a rigid formula.
Practical Steps for Event Organisers
Here’s a straightforward checklist to guide you through planning:
Conduct a medical risk assessment to understand the risks associated with your event.
Use baseline guidance as a starting point: at least two first aiders, and more for larger gatherings.
Determine the appropriate skill level — for higher-risk events, consider first responders, paramedics, nurses, or a full medical team.
Plan first aid facilities with dedicated stations, signage, communication equipment, and access routes for emergency vehicles.
Ensure first aiders are not double-tasked — they should not be security or event staff simultaneously.
Prepare for emergencies with clear escalation procedures and communication protocols.
Document incidents and staffing decisions for compliance, insurance, and future planning.
We have the solution for your event..
Providing adequate first aid cover isn’t about following a fixed number — it’s about understanding the unique risks of your event. While guidelines such as “two first aiders minimum” or “two per 1,000 attendees” are useful starting points, your final plan should be based on a thorough risk assessment.
For small events, having dedicated first aiders is a sign of professionalism and care. For large or high-risk events, proper medical staffing can prevent tragedies and ensure attendees feel safe and supported.
Read more on our website about event medical cover near you
