The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) revised the standard relating to first aid kits in the workplace. ANSI Z308.1-2009 has been replaced by ANSI Z308.1-2015.
The latest revision introduces a separation into two classes. Kits in class A include a basic range of products to deal with the most common types of injuries. Class B kits include a broader range and quantity of supplies to deal with injuries encountered in more populated, complex and/or high-risk workplaces.
| Supply & Minimum Size or Volume Requirements | Minimum Quantity Class A | Minimum Quantity Class B |
|---|---|---|
| Adhesive Bandage, 1" x 3" | 16 | 50 |
| Adhesive Bandage, 2.5 yd | 1 | 2 |
| Antibiotic Application | 10 | 25 |
| Antiseptic, 57-oz | 10 | 50 |
| Breathing Barrier | 1 | 1 |
| Burn Dressing (gel soaked), 4" x 4" | 1 | 2 |
| Burn Treatment, 32-oz | 10 | 25 |
| Cold Pack, 4" x 5" | 1 | 2 |
| Eye Covering, with means of attachment, 2.9 sq. in. | 2 | 2 |
| Eye/Skin Wash | 1 fl. oz | 4 fl. oz |
| First Aid Guide | 1 | 1 |
| Hand Sanitizer, 32-oz | 6 | 10 |
| Medical Exam Gloves | 2 pair | 4 pair |
| Roller Bandage, 2" x 4 yd | 1 | 2 |
| Roller Bandage, 4" x 4 yd | 0 | 1 |
| Scissors | 1 | 1 |
| Splint, 4" x 24" | 0 | 1 |
| Sterile Pad, 3" x 3" | 2 | 4 |
| Tourniquet, 1" width | 0 | 1 |
| Trauma Pad, 5" x 9" | 2 | 4 |
| Triangular Bandage, 40" x 40" x 56" | 1 | 2 |
The standard also establishes minimum performance requirements for first aid kits and their supplies that are intended for use in various work environments. Classification of first aid kits, designating the assortment of items and quantity of each item, is based on the anticipated number of users intended to be served by each first aid kit, as well as the complexity of the work environment and level of hazards. First aid kit containers are classified by portability, ability to be mounted, resistance to water and corrosion, and impact resistance.
| Type | Use | Portable | Water Resistant | Waterproof |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| I | Indoor | X | ||
| II | Indoor | X | ||
| III | Indoor/Outdoor | X | X | |
| IV | Indoor/Outdoor | X | X | X |
Compliance with the ANSI standard is voluntary. However, the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires that first aid provisions be readily accessible to workers. OSHA refers to the ANSI standard as an example and recommends businesses build an inventory of first aid supplies that meet their specific needs. It is the employer's responsibility to conduct an assessment of the workplace, taking into consideration the number of employees, work environment, risks, and the likelihood of an injury. The assessment should be conducted by a person competent in first aid and cognizant of workplace hazards.
Information provided by honeywellsafety.com
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