FAQs
You can find answers to some of our most frequently asked questions below. Topics covered include OSHA compliant first aid kit requirements, ANSI standards, and other key information.
How often does a first aid kit need to be checked?
There is no official standard for how often to inspect a first aid kit. At minimum, however, first aid kits should be checked once every three months, and ideally as often as once per month. More frequent inspections are ideal for workplaces with more frequent or severe injuries. Regular inspections are key to ensuring that your first aid kit remains compliant with OSHA and other regulations.
What is the difference between ANSI A and B?
The primary difference is that Class A first aid kits include basic medical supplies for treatment of minor injuries, while Class B first aid kits include additional supplies for higher-risk work environments. Class B first aid kits include both the medical supplies contained in Class A kits, some in greater quantities, as well as additional supplies such as a tourniquet and splint.
What is required in an OSHA first aid kit?
OSHA does not specify a list of supplies for industry first aid kits to include. Instead, OSHA mandates that “Adequate first aid supplies shall be readily available,” ensuring that all workers can receive immediate medical attention if the need arises.
For some workplaces, a single first aid kit will be sufficient in order to be OSHA compliant, while higher-risk work environments may require a larger volume of first aid kits and medical supplies. The experts at ProStat First Aid will be able to help you determine the right kits for your workplace’s specific needs.
What is an ANSI compliant first aid kit?
An ANSI compliant first aid kit includes, at minimum, each of the medical supplies listed by the American National Standards Institute for a Class A or Class B first aid kit. ANSI compliant first aid kits may contain medical supplies above and beyond these minimum requirements, as well. For a complete list of supplies required in ANSI compliant first aid kits, please see our ANSI first aid kit checklist.
What should be in a restaurant first aid kit?
Most restaurants and commercial kitchens will be best-served with a Class A first aid kit. A restaurant first aid kit should also provide ample supplies for dealing with injuries common within restaurants, particularly puncture wounds and burns.
How many first aid kits are required in the workplace?
The right number of first aid kits will vary greatly depending on the number of workers employed and the injury risk level for a given workplace. Businesses that employ a small number of workers will be adequately served by one first aid kit. The first aid kit count required to remain OSHA compliant increases with additional employees; however, OSHA does not list specific numbers.
To determine the right number of first aid kits for your workplace, ProStat’s first aid experts will be happy to assist you. An OSHA representative will also be able to provide required count information as needed.
What are OSHA requirements for first aid?
OSHA mandates that “Adequate first aid supplies shall be readily available,” ensuring that all workers can receive immediate medical attention if the need arises. Additionally, OSHA states that “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.”
Satisfying the “near proximity” requirement depends on the types of injuries common in your specific workplace. As a rule of thumb, however, industries with a higher risk of injury must have medical care available to employees within 4-6 minutes. To ensure compliance with these standards, it is typically advisable to provide first aid and CPR training to employees in addition to stocking an ample supply of first aid kits.
What type of first aid kit is needed at a church?
Class A kits of types I or II will typically be sufficient for a church, as this is a low-risk environment where only minor injuries are likely to occur.