3 Tips for Buying a Reliable First-Aid Kit
Compulsory by law in many countries, states, and provinces across government workplaces in North America, First Aid Kits play an essential role in making sure your business or organization is safe. This is not just a coincidence, as first aid kits and training save hundreds of people from major injuries every day. In fact, having quality first aid practices implemented offers many benefits for both the individual and society, including reducing hospitalization rates, preventing medical conditions from deteriorating, and even speeding up recovery times.
Considering just how important first aid kits are, trying to find the best one ought to be a priority for any workplace whether public or private. But with so many options available, it can be difficult to find a kit that is best suited for your workplace. In today’s post, The Packaging Company will be providing three tips that can help you find the first aid kit you and your coworkers can rely on in times of emergency.
1. Consider Your First Aid Needs
When purchasing a first aid kit, it is essential to consider the needs of the people on your workplace. For example, there is a considerable difference between the daily activities happening in a high school, a chemical factory, and a small office. To help identify your first aid needs, think about the answers to the following questions:
- How many people visit the premises daily?
- Are there any hazard risks on-site that could potentially affect more than one person?
- Does anybody have any known health issues that may need extra care, such as physical disabilities?
- Do you work with any children, the elderly or vulnerable people?
By answering these questions, you will be able to get a stronger idea of what type of first aid you will need. For example, larger schools or care homes might require several specialized first aid kits, whereas a standard first aid would serve well in a retail store.
2. Think About Where Your First Aid Kit is Located
A simple but relevant question, it is important to figure out where your first aid kit will be stored and buy accordingly to its location. For example, if the workplace is on a construction site or a large warehouse, you might have to station several first aid kits across the premises that are easily portable in the event of an emergency. Similar situations that might need several first aid kits include kitchens, laboratories, or industry plants, where burns and injuries are more common.
On the other hand, if your workplace is a small business office, one standard first aid kit that meets government regulations is usually sufficient. Remember to station the kit in a place accessible to all, especially for staff members trained in first aid who will be the first to call in a medical emergency.
3. Make Sure Your First Aid Kits Meets Local Recommendations
When dealing with the health and safety of others, there should be no exceptions or shortcuts made, including when buying first aid kits.
In order to protect people at work or in public spaces, local governments often make first aid kits mandatory in public workspaces. Private businesses may not have to follow these regulations depending on the number and type of potential occupational hazard are on the premises, but it is still highly recommended to have a reliable first aid kit available to all.
What A Good First Aid Kit Should Include
For very basic needs, your first aid kit should include some or all of the following items:
- Gauzes and bandages with dressing (for wound care)
- Splinter forceps and scissors
- Waterproof tape
- Wrap
- Gloves
- An accident record book
- Antiseptic swaps
- Foil blanket
Additional pieces might also include a splint for suspected fractures, pain relief medication, and a tourniquet.
To complete your organization’s first aid capabilities, ensure someone in the workplace is certified or has received training in first aid. They should also be familiarized with where the first aid kit is and its contents. Once again, when buying a first aid kit in either the US or Canada, do make sure it meets government requirements for occupational safety, not doing so could result in the owner being liable for any incident.
Buy Reliable First Aid Kits for Your Business or Organization
If you are looking for quality first aid kits from a reputable supplier you can rely on, consider choosing The Packaging Company. We provide a complete catalog of first aid kits that comply with provincial regulations, including Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia. Better yet, our first aid catalog also includes refill items, helping you keep your kits well supplied in any emergency. Browse our first aid kit catalog to learn more!
