Where should a first aid kit be located in the workplace?
Ensuring the health and safety of employees is a fundamental responsibility for all employers.
A critical aspect of this duty involves the provision and strategic placement of first aid kits within the workplace. Properly located first aid kits can significantly reduce the severity of injuries and, in some cases, save lives.
In Australia, the placement and maintenance of these kits are guided by specific regulations and standards to ensure workplace safety.
General guidelines for first aid kit placement
According to Safe Work Australia, every workplace must have a minimum of one first aid kit or accessible first aid supplies.
The number of kits and their locations should be determined by the size of the workplace, the number of employees, and the specific risks associated with the work environment. Kits should be:
- Easily accessible - Positioned in locations where all workers can locate and access them quickly
- Strategically placed - Located near areas with a higher risk of injury or illness
- Available in vehicles - Provided inside work vehicles if workers travel for their job
Regular inspections and maintenance of the first aid kits is essential to ensure they are fully stocked and items are within their expiry dates.
Metal cabinet first aid kits
Metal cabinet first aid kits are typically wall-mounted and ideal as a fixed, centrally located first aid station in workplaces such as offices, warehouses, and factories.
Their robust design ensures durability and security, protecting the contents from environmental factors and helping maintain the condition of stored items. When installing metal cabinet kits:
- Visibility - Mount them in prominent locations with clear signage to ensure all employees are aware of their presence
- Accessibility - Ensure they are unlocked and easily reached, considering the height and any potential obstacles that could impede quick access
- Proximity to hazards - Place them near areas with higher risks, such as machinery or chemical storage, to facilitate prompt response in emergencies
Regular servicing should be conducted to ensure the cabinet remains clean and functional, and that all contents are intact and within their use-by dates.
Portable first aid kits in plastic cases
Portable first aid kits housed in plastic cases offer flexibility and mobility, making them suitable for dynamic work environments or where employees are frequently on the move within a site. These kits should be:
- Distributed strategically - Placed in various locations to ensure quick access, especially in large or multi-level workplaces
- Assigned to personnel - Designated to specific employees, such as first aiders or team leaders, who can 'grab and run' them to different locations
- Stored appropriately - Kept in designated areas when not in use, ensuring they are protected from damage and environmental factors
It’s crucial to train staff on the locations and proper use of these portable kits to maximise their effectiveness during emergencies.
First aid kits in soft bags
First aid kits in soft bags are lightweight and versatile, ideal for environments where flexibility and portability are essential, such as outdoor worksites, events, or situations requiring rapid response. To ensure their effectiveness:
- Assign responsibility - Allocate these kits to specific employees or teams, ensuring someone is always accountable for their availability and condition
- Ensure visibility - Use green bags with white cross to make them easily identifiable during emergencies. In some life-threatening incidences such as snake bite, a first aid kit in a hi-visibility colour is appropriate.
- Maintain regularly - Conduct frequent checks to ensure all contents are present, functional, and within their expiry dates
Given their portable nature, these kits should accompany workers during tasks away from the main workplace, ensuring first aid provisions are always within reach.
For employees who spend a significant amount of time on the road, such as delivery drivers or field service personnel, having a first aid kit in their vehicle is crucial. These kits should be:
- Secured properly - Stored in a location within the vehicle where they are easily accessible but secured to prevent movement during transit
- Protected from elements - Kept in durable, weather-resistant bags to safeguard contents from temperature fluctuations and moisture
- Regularly inspected - Checked periodically to ensure all items are present, undamaged, and within their expiry dates
Employers should provide training to vehicle operators on the proper use of these kits and establish protocols for their maintenance and replenishment.
Unexpected considerations for first aid kit placement
While the general guidelines cover most scenarios, certain unexpected factors can influence the optimal placement of first aid kits.
Many workplaces have unique operational requirements, environmental conditions, or structural layouts that can impact first aid accessibility. Overlooking these factors may lead to delayed response times and increased injury severity.
Employers should assess their specific workplace needs and address potential hazards to ensure first aid kits are always within reach when emergencies occur. Factors include:
- Remote or isolated areas - In workplaces with remote or isolated locations, additional kits should be available to account for potential delays in emergency response. Some remote workers may 'wear' a personal kit like a bumbag or a pouch, which can looped through their belt or the strap of a backpack.
- Multi-level buildings - Ensure each floor has an adequately stocked first aid kit to prevent delays caused by moving between levels during an emergency
- High-risk zones - Areas with specific hazards, such as exposure to open flames or heavy machinery operation, may require specialised first aid kits equipped to handle injuries related to those risks
- Shift work considerations - In workplaces operating across multiple shifts, ensure that first aid kits are always accessible, and that all employees, regardless of their shift, are aware of their locations
- Special events or projects - Temporary setups, such as construction sites or event venues, should have portable first aid kits readily available to address any incidents promptly
Conclusion
Employers must comply with Australian workplace health and safety regulations by making first aid kits visible, accessible, and well-stocked at all times.
Proper placement of first aid kits in the workplace is crucial for ensuring quick and effective responses to injuries and medical emergencies. The right type of kit should be chosen based on the specific needs of the work environment, whether it’s a fixed location like an office or warehouse, a mobile setting like a vehicle, or a remote outdoor or high-risk worksite.
Regular checks, staff training and strategic placement are essential for maintaining a safe and prepared workplace.
By prioritising first aid readiness, businesses can protect their employees and foster a safer working environment.
References
Safe Work Australia - Model Code of Practice: First aid in the workplace
WorkSafe Victoria - Compliance code: First aid in the workplace