Employers must determine first aid supplies, kit placement

“Adequate first aid supplies shall be readily available.” This brief mention in OSHA’s first aid and medical services standard at 1910.151 often leaves employers shaking their heads. Although the requirement applies to all general industry employers, how they must comply depends on the types of hazards present.

What type of supplies are needed?

First aid supplies should reflect the kinds of injuries that may occur. Employers must assess the workplace and consider the work processes that could cause injury or illness, the types of injuries experienced in the past and those likely to be encountered in the future, and whether employees are exposed to hazardous machinery or harmful chemicals. After this assessment, employers will have a better idea of how to meet the first aid needs of the workplace. (Note: Some industries, such as logging, have specific requirements for first aid kit contents and locations.) If corrosive materials are used, eyewash and body flush facilities must be provided.

OSHA offers the American National Standards Institute (ANSI)/International Safety Equipment Association (ISEA) Z308.1-2021 as a guide to the types of supplies a small workplace may require, but the decision on the types and amounts of first aid supplies is up to the employer, based upon the types and frequency of accidents that can be anticipated.

The contents of the first aid kits listed in ANSI/ISEA Z308.1 can guide employers on the types of supplies adequate for a small or average worksite. Larger or multiple operations should consider the need for additional first aid kits, additional types of first aid equipment, and first aid supplies in larger quantities. The employer should periodically assess the first aid kit(s) and replace, increase, or add supplies as necessary.

How many, where, and what’s “readily available”?

OSHA clarifies these points (somewhat) in a letter of interpretation. First aid supplies should be located in an easily accessible area, and the first aid provider generally shouldn’t have to travel through several doorways, hallways, and/or stairways to access first aid supplies. OSHA doesn’t specifically address the placement of first aid kits and/or cabinets based on employee numbers, density, or geography. Employers are responsible to assess the particular needs of the workplace and tailor first aid kits and their placement accordingly.

What about AEDs?

OSHA has no specific requirements for automated external defibrillators (AEDs). All worksites are potential candidates for AEDs because of the possibility of sudden cardiac arrest and the need for timely defibrillation. Each workplace should assess its own requirements for an AED program as part of its first aid response.

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