Safety Article #4

First Aid Kits

Larry Casey
Labor Education Service
University of Minnesota

First aid kits for the home and jobsite are available in a large variety. The contents of the individual kits vary a great deal. The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) defines minimum requirements for the contents of a workplace first aid kit which includes:

* Gauze pads * One package gauze roller bandage at least 2 inches
(at least 4 x 4 inches) * Wound cleansing agent such as moistened towelettes
* Box of adhesive bandages * At least one blanket
* Two elastic wraps *Adhesive tape
* Scissors * Resuscitation equipment such as a resuscitation bag,
*Latex gloves airway or pocket mask
* Tweezers * Two large gauze pads (at least 8 x 10 inches)
* Splint * Directions for requesting emergency assistance

Kits with minimum required contents are adequate for responding to minor first aid calls and should be made available to all injured employees.

When supplying items for a first aid kit, consider the history of accidents, expected hazards and expected first aid needs. If your jobsite is at a remote location it may be wise to go beyond the minimum contents of the kit and develop a medical emergency response kit suited for the specific purpose.

Training of the first aid users is essential. Many union-contractor sponsored training centers routinely blend first aid and CPR classes into their education offerings. Training should include the use of all the equipment provided and how to respond to emergencies.

Local emergency response personnel can help develop response procedures tailored to the hazards of a particular workplace. Check state regulations; many of these safety measures may be required by state law. Consulting with local emergency medical teams (EMT’s), or the local Red Cross chapter about equipment, training and policies may be helpful. You can also call the Minnesota Safety Council at (651) 2981-9150 or 1-800-444-9150 or msc@mnsafetycouncil.org. In the event of a life threatening situation call 911.

Thanks to the IBEW Journal for contributing to this article.

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