Workplace First Aid Kit Requirements
How many first aid kits do you need, and what goes in them? In Ireland the answer is risk based. Here is how provision scales with headcount, layout and hazard.
In Ireland, first aid provision is risk based. Under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Application) Regulations 2007 (Part 7, First Aid) and HSA guidance, employers must provide first aid equipment, and where necessary trained occupational first aiders, suitable and sufficient for the size, layout and hazards of the workplace. The number and contents of kits scale with headcount and risk rather than following a single fixed list.
What the Regulations require
Four requirements run together under the 2007 Regulations and HSA guidance.
- 01
Adequate equipment
First aid equipment provided and properly maintained.
- 02
Provision proportionate to risk
Scaled to the number of employees and the level of risk in the workplace.
- 03
Trained first aiders where needed
Occupational first aiders provided where the risk assessment indicates they are required.
- 04
Accessible and identified
First aid equipment and information clearly identified and accessible to staff.
How provision scales
Higher hazard workplaces need more first aiders and better stocked kits than low hazard workplaces of the same size, and larger sites or multiple floors need more kits and more first aiders. Use HSA guidance and your own risk assessment to set the exact numbers and contents for your workplace.
Fewer first aiders and lighter kit provision, scaled to headcount.
More first aiders and better stocked kits than a low hazard site of the same size.
More kits and more first aiders, positioned so cover reaches every floor and area.
Kits and refills
We supply workplace first aid kits and refills, sized and stocked to match your risk assessment rather than a one size fits all box.
See our First Aid range to order kits and refills.
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