What supplies must be in a first aid kit?

OSHA requires at 1910.151(b) that “adequate first aid supplies shall be readily available.” The agency does not and cannot define what constitutes “adequate” since the needs of each workplace will be unique. However, in Appendix A to 1910.151, OSHA says that “by assessing the specific needs of their workplace, employers can ensure that reasonably anticipated supplies are available.” OSHA further requires at 1910.151(a), that an employer have a medical professional to advise on matters of plant health, such as what first aid supplies should be available.

OSHA’s First Aid Handbook states of workplace first aid supplies that “the supplies must be adequate, should reflect the kinds of injuries that occur, and must be stored in an area where they are readily available for emergency access.” This is supported by a February 02, 2007 Letter of Interpretation which says that “employers are required to provide first aid supplies that are most appropriate to respond to incidents at their workplaces. OSHA allows employers to provide first aid supplies specific to the needs of their workplace.” OSHA also refers employers to ANSI/ISEA Z308.1-2015, “Minimum Requirement for Workplace First Aid Kits and Supplies.” The standard categorizes first aid kits into two classes, depending on the assortment and quantity of the supplies contained as follows: