A first aid kit is your first line of treatment for accidents that occur at home or in the workplace. As such, the U.S. Occupational Health and Safety Administration has created specific guidelines on the minimal requirements for a proper first aid kit. Although the following are essential parts of a first aid kit, they are by no means the only items that can be used in first aid. This list is meant to ensure basic coverage if an accident does occur.
Gauze
Gauze is used for many purposes, including protecting and cushioning a wound to the skin. Gauze can also help to absorb any blood that may be flowing from the wound site. OHSA recommends having at least two large gauze pads, several smaller gauze pads and at least a 2-inch wide roll of gauze roller bandage.
Bandages
Include adhesive strips, more commonly known as band-aids, as well as at least two triangle bandages. Bandages help protect wounds on the skin from dirt and other particles that can infect the area.
Tools
Certain tools are also necessary in a first aid kit. These tools must include scissors tweezers and adhesive tape. You can use scissors to cut bandage wraps, tweezers to remove items such as glass or wood slivers, and adhesive tape to hold bandages in place on the skin.
Latex Gloves
Latex gloves provide a barrier between your skin and any bio-hazards, especially blood. Blood and other body fluids can carry a host of diseases. The gloves add extra protection to prevent you from contracting these diseases. Gloves also protect the injured person from infection.
Resuscitation Equipment
OSHA requires resuscitation equipment for a first aid kit. Resuscitation equipment is used when a person has stopped breathing. Equipment may include a pocket mask, single-use airways or resuscitation bags.
Wound Cleaners
Every first aid kit should have a way to clean and disinfect wounds. Common cleaning agents include moist towelettes, hydrogen peroxide, antibiotic ointment or disinfectant wipes.
Emergency Directions
A first aid kit should also include an emergency directions sheet or booklet. These directions can include emergency contact numbers, such as poison control, as well as basic direction on how to perform first aid in the case of an emergency.
Other
Other requirements for a first aid kit include splints, plastic wraps, bottled water and blankets. Other items may be required based on potential victims. For example, you may include an epinephrine kit in case of a severe allergic reactions. For diabetics, you may want to also include insulin and supplies to administer it.
