Workplace First Aid Kit Essentials
A workplace first aid kit should be based on the findings of a risk assessment and should take into account the specific workplace environments and activity.
Any first aid kit should be identified by a white cross on a green background. Workplace first aid kits should conform to British Standard BS-8599 and are normally available to purchase in different sizes to suit the environment.
The table below outlines what is recommended for different workplaces - please note - If no mains tap water is available in a workplace, an employer must ensure there is at least 1 litre of sterile water available for eye washing:
|
Category of risk |
Small |
Medium |
Large |
Travel |
|
Low risk e.g. offices, libraries, shops etc |
Less than 25 employees |
25 – 100 employees |
More than 100 employees |
For travel and motoring – per vehicle |
|
High Risk e.g. construction, manufacturing, food processing, warehousing, engineering etc |
Less than 5 employees |
5 – 25 employees |
More than 25 employees |
|
|
Contents |
Small |
Medium |
Large |
Travel |
|
First Aid Guidance Leaflet |
1 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
Medium Dressing (12cm x 12cm) |
4 |
6 |
8 |
1 |
|
Large Dressing (18cm x 18cm) |
1 |
2 |
2 |
1 |
|
Triangular Bandage |
2 |
3 |
4 |
1 |
|
Conforming Bandage (7.5cm x 4m) |
1 |
2 |
2 |
1 |
|
Safety Pins (assorted) |
6 |
12 |
24 |
2 |
|
Eye Pad Dressing with Bandage |
2 |
3 |
4 |
- |
|
Washproof Assorted Plasters |
40 |
60 |
100 |
10 |
|
Sterile Wipes |
20 |
30 |
40 |
4 |
|
Microporous Tape (2.5cm x 5m or 3m for Travel Kit) |
1 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
Nitrile Gloves (pairs) |
6 |
9 |
12 |
1 |
|
Finger Dressing |
2 |
3 |
4 |
- |
|
Resuscitation Face Shield |
1 |
1 |
2 |
1 |
|
Foil Blanket |
1 |
2 |
3 |
1 |
|
Burn Relief Dressing (10cm x 10cm) |
1 |
2 |
2 |
1 |
|
Universal Shears (Suitable for cutting clothing) |
1 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
Eye Wash (250ml) |
- |
- |
- |
1 |
The Importance of First Aid Training
Under Health and Safety law, an employer has a responsibility to ensure that first aid provision in the workplace is sufficient. This includes carrying out a first aid needs assessment to decide where, how many and what type of first aiders are needed. Then providing training and refresher training for those first aiders, and providing sufficient first aid kits and equipment for the workplace, ensuring that all staff are aware of how and where to get first aid treatment.
First aid training is a crucial aspect of workplace safety. Being prepared to handle emergencies can mean the difference between life and death, particularly when medical professionals may not be immediately available. First aid training equips employees with the necessary skills to assess and respond to various medical situations effectively.
In summary
A well-prepared first aid kit is an essential component of workplace safety. By ensuring that your workplace first aid kit contains the necessary supplies, you can create a safer environment for your employees and visitors.
Remember, it is equally important to provide regular first aid training to employees to equip them with the skills and knowledge needed to respond confidently during emergencies. By investing in first aid training, you are investing in saving lives.
MRS Training and Rescue offers comprehensive first aid training at work programs led by experienced first aid trainers. Stay prepared, save lives!
Lindsey Speirs specialises in confined space training and Mental Health First Aid. Drawing on her background in mental health, challenging behaviour, and eight years of palliative care experience, Lindsey brings a unique combination of compassion and expertise to her role.
