Selecting and Stocking First Aid Supplies
Why Every Workplace Needs Proper First Aid Supplies
Workplace injuries can happen at any time, and having the right first aid supplies on-site can make a critical difference in saving lives and preventing minor injuries from worsening. Whether you're running an office in London, a construction site in Manchester, or a warehouse in Birmingham, ensuring that your first aid kits are stocked correctly is a legal obligation and a key component of workplace safety.
A First Aid at Work Course equips employees with the knowledge to use first aid supplies effectively, but HR and safety managers must ensure that all necessary equipment is available and well-maintained.
Understanding UK First Aid Regulations for Workplace Supplies
Legal Requirements for First Aid Equipment
According to the Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981, employers in Leeds, Bristol, and Brighton must provide:
✅ A properly stocked first aid kit accessible at all times.
✅ An appointed first aider trained through a First Aid at Work Course.
✅ Information and training on where first aid supplies are located and how to use them.
✅ A documented first aid policy outlining emergency procedures.
Employers must ensure that first aid provisions match the specific risks of their workplace.
What Should Be in a Workplace First Aid Kit?
Every business should have at least one fully stocked first aid kit. However, the contents will depend on the size of the company, the nature of the work, and the number of employees.
Essential Items for a First Aid Kit
A basic first aid kit should include:
- Plasters (assorted sizes) – For minor cuts and abrasions.
- Sterile wound dressings – To stop bleeding and protect injuries.
- Bandages and adhesive tape – For securing dressings and treating sprains.
- Disposable gloves – To prevent contamination and infection.
- Antiseptic wipes – For cleaning wounds before dressing them.
- Burn dressings – Essential for kitchens and industrial workplaces.
- Scissors and tweezers – For cutting dressings and removing debris.
- CPR face shields – To protect first aiders during resuscitation.
Businesses operating in higher-risk environments, such as factories in Hassocks, may need additional specialist equipment, including:
- Eye wash stations – For chemical-related industries.
- Cold packs – To reduce swelling from musculoskeletal injuries.
- Defibrillators (AEDs) – Highly recommended for workplaces with a higher risk of cardiac incidents.
A First Aid at Work Course teaches employees how to use these supplies effectively, ensuring they are prepared for any emergency situation.
Where Should First Aid Kits Be Located?
HR and safety officers must ensure that first aid kits are easily accessible in the event of an emergency. The HSE recommends that first aid kits be:
✅ Clearly marked and stored in an accessible location.
✅ Evenly distributed across large workplaces (e.g., multiple kits in warehouses or offices with multiple floors).
✅ Placed near high-risk areas, such as kitchens, workshops, and areas with heavy machinery.
For workplaces in London, Manchester, and Birmingham, businesses should ensure that employees know the locations of first aid kits and who to contact for medical emergencies.
Ensuring First Aid Supplies Are Well-Maintained
1. Conduct Regular First Aid Kit Inspections
A first aid kit is only useful if it's fully stocked and in good condition. Employers must:
✅ Check contents every month to ensure nothing is missing.
✅ Replace expired items (medications, bandages, and antiseptics).
✅ Ensure AEDs are functioning correctly, with charged batteries.
Businesses in Leeds, Bristol, and Brighton should assign a responsible person to manage first aid kit checks.
2. Train Employees to Use First Aid Supplies Properly
Even the best-stocked first aid kit is useless if employees don’t know how to use it. A First Aid at Work Course provides hands-on training for employees to:
✅ Apply dressings and bandages correctly.
✅ Use AEDs in case of cardiac arrest.
✅ Provide emergency first aid until professional help arrives.
Employers in London, Hassocks, and Brighton should ensure that all first aiders complete refresher training regularly.
3. Communicate First Aid Procedures Clearly
HR teams should ensure that every employee knows:
- Where first aid kits are located.
- Who the designated first aiders are.
- What to do in case of an emergency.
This information should be included in employee handbooks, displayed on noticeboards, and covered during staff training sessions.
The Benefits of Proper First Aid Supplies
1. Faster Emergency Response
A well-stocked first aid kit ensures quick treatment, reducing the risk of serious complications.
2. Compliance with UK Health and Safety Laws
Employers in Birmingham, Leeds, and Manchester must comply with HSE regulations to avoid penalties.
3. Increased Employee Confidence
Knowing that first aid provisions are in place reassures employees and fosters a safety-first culture.
Next Steps for Employers
To ensure full first aid compliance, HR teams should:
✅ Book a consultation to assess first aid training needs.
✅ Get a free risk assessment to ensure compliance.
✅ Claim free staff training to upskill employees.