The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) states that an organisation’s minimum first aid provisions should include first aid kits. But how many first aid kits are needed in a workplace and where should a first aid kit be placed? This blog features the factors that need to be considered by different workplaces in determining the number of first aid kits you may need in your organisation.
What is an employer’s responsibility under these regulations?
The first aid at work legislation, or The Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981 apply to all businesses and state that employers are legally required to ensure that their employees receive immediate attention if they are injured or taken ill at work, by providing “adequate and appropriate” equipment, facilities and personnel.
This means that regardless of business scope or size, duty holders have a responsibility to put the necessary first aid resources in place to be compliant with the HSE regulations.
It is the duty holder’s responsibility to determine the exact first aid provisions needed based on the specific workplace environment.
How many first aid kits are needed in a workplace?
As there isn’t a one-size fits all approach to first aid at work, your first aid needs assessment will determine the contents required in your first aid kit and the number required. As an employer, you are best qualified to understand the conditions of the workplace and decide what provisions need to be in place. Therefore, to decide exactly what you need to provide, you should initially undertake a first aid needs assessment.
What needs to be included in a first aid needs assessment?
A first aid needs assessment should take into consideration the specific conditions of your working environment, your workforce and any hazards or risks that could be present. When assessing how many first aid kits are required, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) guidelines strongly suggest you consider:
The number of employees on the premises – the higher the number of employees, the more first aid kits required.
The amount, size, and complexity of floors – you should have at least one first aid kit on every floor where employees work. On larger floors, you should have one first aid kit at each end of the floor. If your organisation has particularly complex layout, you should have several first aid kits located at various visible locations throughout your organisation.
The hazard level of the work activities in your organisation – e.g. an office has lower hazards than a manufacturing premises. Usually only one first aid kit is required for each floor of an office premises, but more first aid kits will be required for a manufacturing environment, even if it’s a small organisation, due to the nature of the work.
You should also consider the following factors:
- If you have travelling, remote or lone workers.
- The distribution of your workforce.
- Whether your employees work on shared or multi-occupancy sites.
- If you require first-aid provision for non-employees (e.g. visitors, contractors, customers or other members of the public).
- Whether your site is near emergency medical services.
Where should a first aid kit be placed?
First aid kits should not be restricted to a specific location but rather be positioned based on the premises' layout and the outcomes of a comprehensive first aid needs assessment. It may become apparent that certain areas within the same floor pose higher hazards, necessitating either more kits or closer proximity.
When thinking about where a first aid kit should be placed, you should consider the following:
- easily accessible
- clearly visible
- signposted by a ‘first aid kit’ sign nearby.
How can first aid kits be stored?
First aid kits can be placed on a countertop, mounted on a wall or stored in a cabinet. However, wall-mounted kits may pose challenges in accessing items for assisting an injured individual who is unable to move. In such cases, providing select workers with portable first aid kits may be necessary, particularly for those who travel frequently, or work remotely.
In addition to having the appropriate equipment, you should also ensure that an ample supply is readily accessible. You should consider dispersing multiple first aid kits throughout each floor to cover all areas effectively. Don't forget to regularly check and replenish your first aid kits.
When storing first aid kits you should also think about nearby work activities or equipment as activities generating debris or extreme-temperature environments can affect the contents of a first aid kit.
Where can I purchase a first aid kit for my workplace?
British Red Cross Training offers a range of first aid kits for the workplace. You can choose from an eco-friendly wall mounted box or a convenient grab bag.