InstituteAnalysisSafety & HealthFirst Aid and MedicalGeneral Industry SafetyEyewashes and ShowersUSAEnglishFirst Aid and MedicalFocus AreaIn Depth (Level 3)
First-aid supplies and treatment requirements
['First Aid and Medical']

- OSHA has requires hazard-specific first aid supplies and medical services to be readily available for each workplace.
- When an injury or illness occurs, a maximum response time of 15 minutes is currently recognized by OSHA as appropriate for workplaces with less serious cases; where 3-4 minutes is required for workplaces with the potential for serious injuries. NOTE: If work is conducted in areas where emergency transportation is not available, the company must provide acceptable transportation. If arrangements cannot be made to provide emergency medical service within an appropriate timeframe, then a person trained in first aid must be available for each shift.
- Review the company’s Emergency Action Plan (EAP) for first aid and medical services. The EAP should outline everything employees need to know to get help during a medical emergency.
The minimum OSHA requirements are:
- Medical personnel must be available for advice on occupational health matters.
- Prior to the start of a project, provisions must be made for prompt medical attention in case of serious injury.
- An infirmary, clinic, hospital, or physician must be nearby; or someone trained in first aid must be available at the worksite.
- First-aid supplies must be readily accessible at all times. This means they must be kept clear of obstructions.
- Where workers may be exposed to injurious corrosive materials, suitable eyewash/drenching stations must be available at the jobsite.
- There must be an available means to transport an injured person to a physician or hospital.
- If 911 service is not available, the emergency numbers for physicians, hospitals, and ambulances must be posted.
