First Aid Equipment Requirements & Standards

Employees have the right to access first aid kits, first aid supplies, and first aid equipment in the event of an on-site workplace emergency.

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), workplaces are required to have a person trained in first aid on site and to ensure first aid supplies are readily available.

OSHA's standard 29 CFR 1910.151 specifically says, "In the absence of an infirmary, clinic, or hospital in near proximity to the workplace which is used for the treatment of all injured employees, a person or persons shall be adequately trained to render first aid. Adequate first aid supplies shall be readily available."

First aid kits are a conventional and convenient solution to providing employees with the first aid supplies they need.

Types of First Aid Kits

As of June 17, 2016 American National Standard Institute (ANSI) standard 308.1-2009 is replaced by Z308.1-2015. The new code outlines two different types of first aid kits/cabinets to address the need of two different types of workplaces. Let us help you understand the changes.

Class A First Aid Kits provide the minimum number of items for common workplace injuries, minor wounds, burns, or eye injuries.

Class B First Aid Kits serve high-risk workplaces where employees are required to use personal protective equipment, and could suffer more serious injuries.

Class A & Class B promote workplace compliance. If your workplace includes wearing PPE, the Class B first aid kit is ideal. ANSI classifies first aid kits in four types as detailed in the table below:

To be in compliance with ANSI standards, first aid kits must contain the following items and quantity:

ANSI 2015 First Aid Kit Minimum Quantities

Maintaining and Labeling First Aid Kits

First aid kits should be refilled as soon as supplies are removed to remain in compliance with ANSI and OSHA requirements. ANSI standards state that first aid kits "continue to be compliant only when maintained with products that meet the standard at specified quantities."

Where to Place First Aid Kits

In general, all first aid kits and right-to-know literature must be easily accessible to all employees. Each first aid kit and/or location must be visibly marked to identify the place where first aid supplies are stored. There is no specific height to mount first aid kits and right-to-know literature, but all materials must be easily accessible to all employees.

Shop Safety Signs

Bandages, Gauze & Tape

Burn Treatment

Defibrillators

First Aid Blankets

First Aid Cold & Heat Packs

First Aid Kits

First Aid Tools

Harness Kits & Accessories

Safety Products

Safety Signs

NOTE: This information is a summary interpretation and was prepared as general reference material only. This summary is not authoritative as laws can be amended over time. For specific compliance requirements and updates, please refer to the actual code language and the statute or legal counsel.