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A common misconception in the workplace is that any first aid kit – sometimes known as a first aid box – will suffice in the event of an accident or injury. In fact, there are many types of first aid kit available, each of which is suitable to a specific set of workplace risks.
With this being the case, just what should be in a first aid kit?
It makes sense that a first aid kit should carry more dressings and medications for a business which is based around human activity than for an office-based business. This is because the physical risk of accident and injury is greater. This rule would apply to businesses such as sports clubs and schools, manual jobs such as warehouse work, construction, engineering, farming, and more.
The employer is expected to have completed a first aid needs assessment. They are also expected to have appointed a person to take charge of first aid arrangements.
The employer and the appointed person are responsible for ensuring the first aid box is stocked with the essentials. They must also ensure there are enough trained first aiders within the organisation.
There is no hard rule around this provision as it depends on the organisation. Factors such as size of the organisation, office-based work versus manual work, and shift work, all need to be considered.
For in-depth guidance, the HSE offers a handy first aid at work document which you can download from the HSE website.
The minimum which should be available in a first aid box includes sterile dressings and bandages, adhesive tape, antiseptic wipes, and disposable gloves for cleaning wounds and protecting yourself.
Essential tools like scissors and tweezers, along with pain relievers, instant cold packs, and a first aid manual, can also be crucial for treating minor injuries.
Dressings and bandages
Cleaning and antiseptic
Tools and supplies
Medications and personal items
Information
As can be seen from the list, a first aid kit can be packed with different dressing and applications.
It is important for trained first aiders to apply any dressings and medication to mitigate the risk of making an injury or illness worse if a non-trained person were to attempt to administer first aid.
There are many different types of first aid kits available. Each serves a specific purpose depending on the environment in which it is needed. Available kits include, but is not limited to:
Regular checks of first aid supplies are important. If you think your first aid box might be missing something which is in the list above, then it might be a good time to restock.
If you need to upskill your teams with first aid at work training, then you’ve come to the right place.
At 3B Training, we offer regular first aid courses in our high-spec training venues, and in-house at your own venue if required.
The first aid courses we provide includes:
Each of our first aid courses can be quickly and easily booked online in only a few minutes.
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