When and why should first aid supplies be replaced?
Short Answer: When it comes to first aid kits, their usefulness depends on the conditions of the medical supplies contained within. Since most medical supplies expire and lose their potency after a certain period of time, they must be replaced. While routine inspections of first aid kits are recommended every 6-12 months, to truly understand when and why we should replace first aid supplies, we must know:
● The shelf life of common first aid supplies;
● How to track expiry dates and replacements;
● Signs that it’s time to update our kit, and
● Where can we go to get our first aid essentials restocked
Shelf Life of Common First Aid Supplies
The primary purposes of first aid are the 3 P’s: to preserve life, prevent the condition from worsening, and promote recovery. Unless a first aid kit is properly maintained regularly, expired, damaged, or degraded supplies can compromise its effectiveness.
Unfortunately, most first aid supplies do not last forever and must be replaced when they go past their shelf life. As such, knowing the shelf life of common first aid supplies is an essential part of managing your supplies and ensuring their effectiveness during emergencies.
Products with up to 5 years of shelf life
● Adhesive tapes
● Eye pads
● Gauze bandages
● Latex gloves
● Scissors
● Tweezers
● Compresses
● Forceps
● Instant cold packs
● Plastic or cloth strip bandages
● Sterile gauze and pads
Supplies with various shelf lives
● Alcohol wipes—two years
● Burn ointments—one to two years
● First aid creams and ointments—two years
● Antibiotic ointment—two years
● Eye wash—three years
● Hand sanitiser—four to five years
How to Track Expiry Dates and Replacements
Staying on top of tracking first aid expiry dates and replacements does not need to be a complicated process. Everything slots into place with a few smart habits and tools, making sure that your first aid kit is always ready to go.
● Create an inventory system -Open Windows Excel or Google Sheets and make a list of all your first aid supplies and their expiry dates. Also, note down when a certain product has been replaced to prevent any unnecessary spending.
● Use labels and stickers—Use coloured labels and stickers to mark or write down the expiry dates. For example, red can be used to show supplies that are expiring soon, while green can be used for supplies with longer shelf lives.
● Set calendar reminders—use your phone or computer to set calendar reminders at least a month before the expiry date of a product.
● Buy pre-filled packs—You can avoid the hassle of creating your own first aid kit by opting to purchase a pre-filled pack. It is comparatively easier to restock rather than hunt for individual items.
Signs That It’s Time to Update Your Kit
When it comes to first aid kits, we often make the mistake of packing them once and forgetting about them until the need arises. However, your first aid kit will often have telltale signs signalling that the time is right for an update.
● When the first aid carry case and supply packaging show signs of wear and tear.
● When the expiry date for medication and other supplies has passed
● When the kit has not been restocked after use
● When supplies have been contaminated or exposed to the elements
● When new standards have been introduced with regard to the content in the first aid kit.
Where to Restock Your First Aid Essentials
If you’re looking to replace or restock your first aid essentials, SURVIVAL has got you covered. We are a premier supplier of first aid kits and supplies for families, workplaces, and outdoor adventures that have been keeping Australians safe since 1988. Check our link on First Aid Restock and find everything you’re looking for.
Related Questions
Q: Should I replace the first aid supplies even if I have not used them?
Yes, it doesn’t matter if they are unused. Many of the supplies will break down over time and lose their effectiveness.
Q: Should I replace the whole kit or the items that expired?
In most cases, you can just replace the items that have expired. However, if your kit is old, damaged, or missing key items, or there are new and improved versions, it may be more practical to get yourself a new kit.
Conclusion
First aid kits and supplies do not last forever and must be replaced when they exceed their shelf life. Your first aid kit is a living resource that needs constant care and regular checks. Expired or missing items can turn even the smallest injuries into a crisis. The medical supplies must be replaced when necessary, and this is where SURVIVAL First Aid Restock can help.
We have been keeping Australians safe since 1988, and we have an extensive inventory of high-quality, medical-grade supplies that are designed to meet Australian health and safety standards. Whether you want to replace your supplies or your entire kit, SURVIVAL has got you covered.