MORE than 250 people suffered a serious injury at work on the Isle of Wight last year, prompting a call for more people to learn first aid.
According to figures released by the Health and Safety Executive, 208 of those people were off work for at least three days.
The statistics have prompted St John Ambulance Service to call for improved first-aid provision.
The charity’s regional training director, Mel Fox, said: "It’s a worrying trend the number of serious injuries has risen from the previous 12 months.
"However, businesses can easily get peace of mind by having trained first-aiders among their staff.
"If someone has an injury at work, prompt first aid can sometimes mean they are able to return to work sooner than if first aid wasn’t available and in extreme cases, it can even save lives."
For further details about training courses, call 0844 324 5535 or visit www.sja.org.uk
Reporter: emilyp@iwcpmail.co.uk