First Aid Kits

The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) established minimum performance requirements for first aid kits in its publication ANSI Z308.1-2014. First aid kits are classified as either Class A or Class B, and contain the assortment of supplies in the quantities specified in Table 1 below.

·       Class A first aid kits include a basic range of products to deal with the most common types of injuries encountered in the workplace, including: major wounds, minor wounds (cuts and abrasions), minor burns, and eye injuries.

·       Class B kits include a broader range and quantity of supplies to deal with injuries encountered in more populated, complex, or high risk workplace environments.

A Job Hazard Assessment of the work environment may indicate the need for additional first aid supplies beyond what is listed below.

The containers used to house the first aid supplies are designated Type I, II, III, or IV based on the criteria in Table 2.

· Type I first aid kits are for use in stationary, indoor settings where the potential for damage of kit supplies due to environmental factors and rough handling is minimal. These kits can be mounted in a fixed position and are generally not meant to be portable.

· Type II first aid kits are portable, but meant to be used in indoor settings where the potential for damage of kit supplies due to environmental factors and rough handling is minimal.

· Type III first aid kits are portable and meant to be used in indoor or outdoor settings where the potential for damage of kit supplies due to environmental factors is not probable. These kit types can be mounted in a fixed position, and they have a water resistant seal.

· Type IV first aid kits are for portable use in the mobile industries or outdoor settings where the potential for damage to kit supplies due to environmental factors and rough handling is significant. These kits can be mounted in a fixed position, and they are waterproof.