Is there a formula to calculate how many first-aid kits my workplace must have?
Short Answer: There is no specific formula to calculate how many first aid kits a workplace must have. However, Safe Work Australia does provide a guideline. According to SWA, a workplace must at least have one first-aid kit. However, the number can increase based on the risk, size, and layout of the workplace. As such, the common industry guide is one first aid kit per 25-50 employees in low-risk workplaces. At the same time, there should be one kit per 10-25 employees in remote and high-risk workplaces.
To determine how many first-aid kits are required per employee in Australia, we also need to look into the following:
● Do shift workers change the calculations?
● Should kits be placed on every level of a building?
● What are the accessibility rules for kit placement?
● Can one large kit replace multiple smaller ones?
Do shift workers change the calculation?
Yes, the presence of shift workers can have an impact on the number of first aid kits in the workplace. The general rule of thumb is that if there are multiple shifts in the same workplace, each shift must have enough supplies to cover all the employees.
At the same time, a risk-based approach must be considered to determine the extent of the supplies needed. For example, if a night shift has higher risks and requires employees to operate in isolation, more first aid kits and trained first aiders may be needed to respond to any potential emergency. Having first aid kits and supplies dedicated to each shift also makes it easier to keep track of the supplies that are used up or expired, allowing for easy supply restock and maintenance.
Should kits be placed on every level of a building?
Yes, in a multi-storey building, there should at least be one fully equipped first-aid kit on every level.
Accessibility is the main consideration in such an arrangement. No matter where an injury occurs, a worker should not be more than a few minutes away from the needed medical supplies. As such, when you have first aid kits at every level, you can make sure that an injured person receives immediate medical attention.
These first aid kits must be placed in prominent locations that are clearly marked and easily accessible to all. Receptions, lift areas, and kitchens have the most frequent foot traffic and are known by all, making them ideal locations to store first aid kits.
What are the accessibility rules for kit placement?
When placing first aid kits across the workplace, the locations you select must be easily accessible, clearly visible, and located in and around areas where there is a higher risk of injury. The point being that, should an injury occur, no matter the location, the victim is only a few minutes away from the first-aid supplies needed to stabilise their condition.
It is recommended that the kit location be clearly marked with the standard first aid white cross on a green background. At the same time, the location you choose to place the first aid kits must be cool and dry, protected from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight.
Can one large kit replace multiple smaller ones?
Yes, it is possible for one large first aid kit to replace multiple smaller kits, provided that one large kit can be accessed quickly during an emergency. However, the choice between one large kit and several smaller kits will depend on many factors, including the size and layout of the workplace.
One large kit would be ideal for workplaces with small, open-plan areas, such as a small office or workshop. The kit can be placed in a prominent and central location without any obstructions, and everyone would know where the kit is stored.
On the other hand, multiple first aid kits will be needed when the workplace has a large footprint or has multiple floors. At the same time, high-risk areas within the workplace should have their own specialised kits. Also, remote and field workers will require their own portable first aid kits.
All things considered, multiple small kits allow for rapid response, easier maintenance, and greater visibility and knowledge among employees. As such, many workplaces are opting for a hybrid model where a large first aid kit is located in a first aid room while multiple smaller kits are spread across the workplace.
Related Question
Q: Do high-risk industries require more first aid resources?
Yes, high-risk industries such as construction, farming, mining, landscaping, and manufacturing often require large first aid kits, additional trauma supplies, kits spread across multiple locations, and trained first aiders.
As we’ve mentioned at the beginning, there is no fixed formula we can use to determine how many first-aid kits a business needs. It all depends on factors such as workplace risk level, the number of staff, and how quickly staff can access medical supplies during an emergency. The general rule of thumb is that there should always be enough first-aid kits and supplies to cover the medical needs of all the employees in the workplace.
Whether you’re running a small business or a large worksite, SURVIVAL is your trusted partner in first-aid solutions. All our first aid kits and accessories are durable, well-organised, and easy to maintain. They will have all the medical supplies you need to calmly and effectively respond to any workplace emergency. Check out SURVIVAL and make your workplace safer and more prepared.