Expert advice / Guide
Workplace first aid: kits & compliance
First aid provision is a legal duty under the Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations. The right kit and a restocking routine are the difference between passing and failing an audit.
Work out what you actually need
A first-aid needs assessment drives everything: number of staff, the hazards on site, shift patterns and how far you are from emergency services. Low-hazard offices need less than a workshop or warehouse.
Buy to BS 8599
BS 8599-1 is the British Standard for workplace first aid kits. Kits come in small, medium and large — size them to your headcount and risk level.
- Low hazard: small kit up to 25, medium to 100, large for 100+.
- High hazard: small kit up to 5, medium to 25, large for 25+.
- Vehicles and travel: use BS 8599-2 motoring kits for fleets.
Eye wash & burns
Where there's a risk of chemical splash or dust, mains tap water may not be enough — provide sterile eye wash stations. Add burns dressings or gel near kitchens, hot work and catering.
Restock on a schedule
An empty kit fails an audit and lets people down. Assign an owner, check contents monthly, watch expiry dates on sterile items, and keep refill packs in stock rather than buying whole kits again.