Suggested contents of a first aid box
What should you keep in your first aid box?
There’s no easy answer to this question. The contents of a first aid box will depend on the environment the box is going to be used in. For example, a first aid box at home may contain different items to a first aid box required in a workplace.
Here’s our suggested contents of a first aid box. Remember you will need to carry out a risk assessment and may need to alter the contents of your first aid box.
When choosing a first aid box ensure you choose one which can be mounted easily on a wall / hard surface and one which has a durable hard cover to protect the medical equipment inside.
First aid box suggested contents
Item | Quantity |
First Aid Guidance Leaflet (up to date) | 1 |
Pairs of Gloves (Nitrile) | 10 |
Antiseptic Wipes | 30 |
‘Tuff Kut’ scissors / shears | 1 |
Microporous hypoallergenic tape | 1 |
CPR Face shield | 1 |
Foil blanket | 2 |
Triangular bandages (sterile) | 3 |
Conforming bandage | 2 |
Eye pad | 3 |
Large wound dressings (sterile) | 2 |
Medium wound dressings (sterile) | 6 |
Assorted plasters | 40 |
Looking after your first aid box
Your first aid box should be checked on a regular basis to ensure the contents are stocked, not damaged and in-date. All sterile items now come with an expiry date.
If the box is going to be used in the workplace then a member of staff should take responsibility for checking the first aid box on a regular basis.
Ensure the first aid box is located in an accessible place (not locked away!) with adequate signage.