Whether you work in an office, factory or on a shop floor you are going to be faced with hazards and risks in your workplace. It’s always best to be prepared to handle any kind of medical emergency either at work or at home. There is a wide variation in the contents of first aid kits based on the knowledge and experience of those putting it together, the differing first aid requirements of the area where it may be used, and variations in legislation or regulation in a given area.

Under the Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981 employers are legally obligated to provide first aid equipment, medical facilities and personnel to ensure all employees can receive medical attention if injured at work. By having the right medical equipment you can save lives and / or prevent minor injuries becoming major ones. First aid kits may be basic or comprehensive. Ready-made first aid kits are commercially available from chain stores or outdoor retailers.

Work places need to be assisted to establish whether there is the appropriate level of first aid provision available. The minimum requirement in any work place is a suitably stocked first aid kit. First aid kits are a collection of first aid supplies and medical equipment for use in giving first aid.

Commercially available first aid kits available via normal retail routes have traditionally been intended for treatment of minor injuries only. Specialised first aid kits are available for various regions, vehicles or activities, which may focus on specific risks or concerns related to the activity.

The contents of first aid kits should be based on an employer’s assessment of their first aid needs. There is no mandatory list of first aid items to put in a first aid kit but the minimum items for a low hazard environment are:

•Sterile plasters

•Sterile eye pads

•bandages

•safety pins

•Sterile large wound dressings;

•disposable gloves

Additional first aid supplies such as scissors, adhesive tape, Slings, Cotton buds, disposable aprons and moist wipes may also be stored in a first-aid kit. However it is highly recommended that employers do not store tablets and medicines of any kind in the first aid kit.

So now the next question is how often should the contents of first aid boxes be replaced? Well all the first aid items in the first aid box needs to be regularly checked. Items that which potentially have a dated life should be replaced if they are have gone beyond their expiry dates.

For other items that don’t have dates then it is a matter of judgement, based on whether they are still fit for purpose. However you need to remember that if an item is taken from the first aid box that it is replaced with a fresh new one.

If you require a first aid kit or first aid supplies then try contacting Graft Workwear on 01903 755335.