It's important for businesses to be prepared for minor injuries that can occur on the job. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, around 2.8 million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses were reported by private industry employers in 2020. The most common types of injuries included sprains, strains and tears (such as muscles being overexerted),followed by bruises and contusions. While many injuries are minor, having the right supplies can help treat them effectively until additional medical attention is received.
Stocking the Right Supplies
Every First Aid Kit should contain basic supplies to treat cuts, scrapes, burns and other minor injuries. As a minimum, kits should include: bandages, gauze pads, antibiotic ointment, adhesive tape, elastic wrapping bandages, antiseptic wipes, thermometer, tweezers, disposable gloves and first aid instruction booklet. It's also a good idea to keep over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Additional items like scissors, triangular bandages and hydrocortisone cream can help treat more severe wounds if needed. Proper first aid kits are customizable depending on your workplace hazards and number of employees.
Location is Key
First aid kits must be strategically placed where they are highly visible and accessible in case of an emergency. They should be available in areas where injuries are more likely to occur like factories, construction sites, kitchens and laboratories. Mounting wall-mounted kits or placing portable kits on shelves keeps supplies organized and prevents damage. Signs help employees locate kits quickly. It's a good idea to have at least one kit on each floor of a building. Automobiles used for business should also be equipped with portable first aid kits.
Proper Maintenance
To ensure first aid kits are fully stocked and ready for use, kits should be checked on a monthly basis. Items should be replaced as they expire or are used to treat injuries. An inventory checklist makes replenishing supplies simple. At a minimum, the entire contents of first aid kits should be replaced every year to keep materials sterile and protective packaging intact. Consider creating a routine maintenance schedule assigned to a specific employee. With regular oversight, your workplace will remain prepared to respond effectively to minor medical emergencies when they occur.
Specialized Supplies and Training
Certain industries require additional supplies tailored to their needs. Construction sites benefit from including burn treatments due to welding risks. Sports facilities gain value from including supplies to handle sprains, strains and minor fractures. Office managers should provide medication for treating insect bites and stings. Consider specialized training for employees on using Automatic External Defibrillators (AEDs) in the event of cardiac emergencies too. Being ready for industry-specific hazards reduces injuries and saves lives.
Compliance with State Regulations
OSHA requires workplaces subject to OSHA jurisdiction to make provisions for prompt medical care for injured employees. This includes ensuring sufficient first aid supplies are available and accessible. Most states have adopted identical or similar first aid standards as well. Standards may specify the number and type of first aid kits required depending on business size and hazards. Non-compliance can result in OSHA citations and fines for businesses. Reviewing state and federal regulations is important for selecting the most appropriate supplies and kit placements. This protects your business and helps injured workers receive prompt attention.
having properly equipped and accessible first aid kits is a necessity for any business. Minor cuts, burns and other injuries are inevitable in most workplaces. By taking a proactive approach through stocking comprehensive first aid kits, workplaces can effectively treat injuries when they occur. This not only improves employee health and safety, but also helps ensure a prepared and compliant operation. With the right preventative measures taken, businesses can reduce costs from injury-related lost time and medical claims too.
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