June ToolBox Talk: First Aid Kits

You've probably got first aid kits at home, in your office, on your job site, even in your vehicle. When was the last time you inspected yours?

First aid equipment and supplies should be stored where they can be reached quickly and easily in case of an accident. Like any piece of equipment, first aid kits need maintenance from time to time. They should be inspected frequently to ensure that they are fully stocked and in sanitary, usable condition.

Use this checklist to make sure your first aid kits will be ready when you need them.

• Has it been over a year since your first aid kits were inspected?
• Do you know the shelf-life of the contents?
• Do any items need to be replaced?
• Do you have a procedure in place to make sure that first aid supplies are replaced when used?
• Are all supplies properly labeled?
• Will hot or cold weather affect the contents of the first aid kit?
• Are your first aid kits adequate for handling potential injuries related to the hazards on your current job site?

If first aid is not given properly, it can sometimes do more harm than good. All workers should know where the emergency first aid equipment is stored, how and when to use it, and how and when to contact medical help. When conducting first aid training, consider the following:

• Does your crew know where to locate the first aid kit? Do they know how to use its contents?
• Have you identified all the chemicals present on your job site? Does your crew know what to do in the event of eye or skin contact with these chemicals?
• Do all crew members know which medical professional or facility they should call in an emergency?
• Is your crew trained in universal precautions when handling blood and other potential pathogens?