First Aid Kits

A first aid kit should be kept in an easily accessible location at every place of work (this means at larger sites more than one first aid kit is likely to be required). The container should be clearly identified by a white cross on a green background and should also protect the contents from dust and damp. The following list of contents is given as guidance for a standard 10 person kit in a low risk environment. (The quantities should be increased for more people or if you find you are regularly using a particular item).

This is the standard HSE first aid kit requirements which dates back to 1981:

• 20 individually wrapped sterile adhesive dressings of assorted size (plasters).
- Blue detectable plasters should be provided for food handlers.
- Hypoallergenic plasters are suggested for children.

• 2 sterile eye pads.

• 4 triangular bandages, individually wrapped and preferably sterile.

• 6 safety pins.

• 6 medium wound dressings (pad size approx.12x12cm), individually wrapped & sterile.

• 2 large wound dressings (pad size approx.18x18cm), as above.

• 1 pair of disposable gloves.

• A leaflet giving general guidance on first aid.

(equivalent items may be used)

If mains tap water is not readily available for eye irrigation, at least 1 litre of sterile water or 'saline' should be provided in sealed disposable container(s) . This is also good for cleaning wounds.

Many first aid kit items have a use by date that should be checked frequently. This is to guarantee that the contents are sterile and that materials have not degraded over time (some low quality brands can literally turn to dust).

The HSE specify that medications, pills etc. should not be kept in the first aid kit as this may encourage first aiders to "prescribe" them.

As the HSE guidance list is now over 25 years old, we have listed below a few recommended extras that will bring your first aid kit up-to-date and make it more suitable for your first aider when they have to deal with common situations.

QTY	ITEM	NOTES
1	Resus face shield	(Protection whilst doing CPR)
3+	Additional pairs of disposable gloves. More will be needed if the first aider is busy.	The HSE kit-list only says one pair!
6	Melolin Dressings 10cm x 10cm (or other alternative brand).	Low-adherent with a shiny side so they don't stick to the wound as much.
1	Micro-pore Tape (or other alternative brand).	Tears easily without scissors and lets the wound breathe.
2 or 3	Conforming Bandages either 10cm or 7cm wide.	Conforms to the shape of the limb.
1	Crepe Bandage	Good for supporting sprains and strains.
1	Ice pack (instant ice packs are available that don't need a freezer)	Good for any bruise or sprains and strains etc.
1	Pair "Tuff Cut" Scissors	Capable of cutting denim or even leather clothing.
1	Blanket	Keeps patient warm and makes them feel better!

First on Scene now stock a first aid kit that contains all the extra items recommended above and exceeds HSE requirements. We can also offer a comprehensive range of quality first aid supplies that are available directly from ourselves at great prices.

Please call 0845 51 91 999 for more details or email info@firstonscene.co.uk for our latest price list.

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