The Importance Of A First Aid Kit
A first aid kit is virtually a mandatory requirement in the majority of work places. Indeed in the event of a problem it can prove to be lifesaving.
The size of your first aid kit and its contents will vary depending on your workplace and what is carried out in it.
For example the health and safety risks in an office are somewhat different to those of a factory where machinery may be in use to produce goods.
In an office your highest risks are likely to be minor cuts, and trip/slip hazards, in which case a small size first aid kit will suffice as long as it contains plasters, and antiseptic, in order to treat cuts, and bandages in order to provide temporary support of limbs in the event of a fall e.g. to support a potential broken arm incurred in a fall, prior to professional treatment.
Where as in a factory the first aid supplies will need to be far more comprehensive, with eye wash bottles for use in the event of chemical accidents with someone’s eyes, and a more comprehensive cut and wound treatment kit, where the risk of a cut is more severe in nature.
In either case it needs to be clearly identified in the office by a sign highlighting where the first aid kit is – commonly this is by the companies’ first aider.
Note that in many companies there will be more than one first aid kit and first aider, indeed companies are required to have a list of first aiders clearly displayed.
The contents of your first aid kit may vary considerably with some now even containing heart attack treatments.
You should regularly check the contents of all of your first aid kits, as there is always a tendency for people to use items from them when the first aider is not around, and not tell anyone.
This can result in depleted stocks of potentially vital items. So get into a routine and check your first aid equipment once a month.
When purchasing a first aid kit always buy one from a company that can provide the items needed to re-stock it. This may sound simple but some companies sell the kits but not the supplies to replenish them.
First aid supplies should always be on your mind when thinking of health and safety, but it is about cure not just prevention. In the event of an accident the kit could prove to be life saving.
Intermedical Direct are a UK independent medical supplies wholesaler, with medical equipment available for professionals and individuals alike.