Tip of the Month: First Aid Box Contents

Tip of the Month: First Aid Box Contents by Acorn Health & Safety

There is probably not a week goes by when we do not get asked: “What should I have in my first aid kit?”

To start off with, there is no mandatory list of items to be included in a first-aid kit, the decision on what to provide will be influenced by the findings of the first-aid needs assessment.

 

However, there are two sources of guidance which will provide a starting point;

1. HSE’s Guidance on the Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981 (L74)

As a guide, where work activities involve low hazards, a minimum stock of first-aid items might be:

• a leaflet giving general guidance on first aid
• individually wrapped sterile plasters (assorted sizes), appropriate to the type of work (hypoallergenic plasters can be provided if necessary);
• sterile eye pads;
• individually wrapped triangular bandages, preferably sterile;
• safety pins;
• large sterile individually wrapped unmedicated wound dressings;
• medium-sized sterile individually wrapped unmedicated wound dressings;
• disposable gloves

2. British Standards Institute Specification for the contents of a workplace first aid kit BS 8599-1 (2011)

The below would be representative of a medium sized first aid kit

• 2 x Conforming Bandage
• 3 x Non-Sterile Non-woven Triangular Bandage
• 2 x Foil Space Blanket – Silver – Adult Size
• 1 x General First Aid Guidance Card
• 2 x Burnshield Dressing
• 30 x Alcohol-Free Wipe in Foil Sachet
• 9 x Purple Nitrile Examination Gloves (pairs)
• 3 x No 7 Sterile Finger Dressing
• 3 x Eye Pad Sterile Dressing
• 6 x Medium Sterile Dressing
• 2 x Large Sterile Dressing
• 60 x Assorted Waterproof Plasters
• 1 x Low Allergy Tape
• 1 x Mouth-To-Mouth Resuscitation Face Shield
• 1 x Trauma Shears – Black
• 2 x Safety Pins, Assorted – Bunch of 6

First aid kits should be checked regularly to confirm they are appropriately stocked and that the items have not passed their expiry date, this will vary on different products from 3 to 5 years.

We also cover basic First Aid Box contents on our First Aid at Work Training courses 

Nigel Braybrooke, Training Manager & Consultant 

Frequently Asked Questions

What should be included in a workplace first aid box?
A workplace first aid box should contain supplies that match the level of risk identified in your working environment. Common items include sterile dressings, plasters, gloves, bandages, and eye pads to help deal with everyday injuries. The HSE also recommends including general first aid guidance so staff can respond appropriately in an emergency. Some workplaces may need additional items depending on the type of hazards employees face. Having the correct contents readily available helps staff respond quickly and confidently when incidents happen.

How often should the contents of a first aid box be checked?
First aid boxes should be inspected regularly to ensure supplies remain complete, clean, and within their expiry dates. Items such as dressings, wipes, and gloves can become damaged or ineffective over time if not monitored properly. Frequent checks also help identify products that have been used and need replacing immediately. A well-maintained first aid box ensures staff are not left without essential supplies during an emergency. Keeping everything up to date supports both workplace safety and legal compliance.

Does every workplace need the same first aid box contents?
No, first aid box contents should reflect the specific risks and activities within each workplace rather than following a single universal list. Lower-risk environments may only require basic supplies, while construction sites or industrial settings often need more comprehensive equipment. Employers should carry out a first aid needs assessment to determine what is appropriate for their staff and environment. Tailoring the contents ensures the first aid provision is practical and relevant to real workplace hazards. This approach improves preparedness and helps businesses provide more effective emergency response.