Workplace First Aid Kits
We offer three different sized kits and the kit that you need will depend on how many people you have in the property and the level of risk.
Our kits are supplied in high quality cases that are strong and durable ensuring the first aid equipment is protected.
The new BS8599-1 compliant first aid kits are now the only safe and clear way for an employer to meet their obligations...
BS8599-1 compliant kits were effective from 30th June 2011, with a transitional introduction period until 31st December 2011.
Every work place should now have a first aid kit that is compliant to BS8599-1 and depending on their size and risk will decide on the size kit they require:
The small first aid kit can provide medical aid for up to 25 people in low hazard premises and up to 5 people in high hazard premises. The medium first aid kit supports between 25-100 people in low hazard premises and only between 5-25 people in high hazard premises. The large first aid kit can aid 100+ people in low hazard and up to 25 people in high hazard premises.
When did BS5899-1 come into force?
BS8599-1 compliant kits were effective from 30th June 2011, with a transitional introduction period until 31st December 2011.
The Old Standard
BS5899-1 replaces the BHTA-HSE 10, 20 & 50 person kits that are currently universally used in the UK. The BHTA standard was withdrawn on 31st December 2011, so the 10,20 & 50 person kits no longer comply.
What the Law Says
The Health and Safety (First Aid) regulations 1981 states:
"An employer shall provide or ensure that there are provided such equipment and facilities as are adequate and appropriate in the circumstances for enabling first aid to be rendered to his employees if the are injured or become ill at work"
The new BS8599-1 compliant first aid kits are now the only safe and clear way for an employer to meet their obligations...
Why did we need a new standard?
Despite many EU states having a national standard for workplace first aid kits, until now, the UK did not. The BHTA guidelines, established in 1997 were in need of revision because training protocols have changed, there are heightened concerns with infection control, and new technology is now available at affordable prices.
The new kits have good quantities of plasters and wipes, a common criticism of the old ones
What size first aid kit do we require?
Employers are required to undertake a risk assessment to decide what the hazard levels are, and how many employees are involved in the area to be covered by each first aid kit.
Below is a useful guide to match the risk assessment to an appropriate size kit:
Low Hazard
E.G: Shops, offices, Libraries Etc.
Less than 25 employees - Small Kit
25 - 100 Employees - Medium Kit
More than 100 - 1 Large Kit per 100 Employees
High Hazard:
E.G. Light Engineering and assembly work, food processing, warehousing, extensive work with machinery.
Less Than 5 employees - Small Kit
5 - 25 employees - Medium Kit
More than 25 - 1 Large Kit per 25 employees.
Large Kit