--- title: "Workplace First Aid Kits: What to Include and How to Manage" description: One worker is injured every seven seconds requiring first aid. Here's what to include in your workplace first aid kit and how to manage it. image: https://blog.axcethr.com/hubfs/Mar%2016%20blog%20image.webp --- - [Client Portal](https://www.axcethr.com/client-services/) - [Employee Login](https://www.axcethr.com/client-services/) [![AxcetHR Solutions Blog](https://blog.axcethr.com/hubfs/AxcetHR2021%20Blog/axcethr_logo_white%20(1).png)](https://www.axcethr.com/) - [About Us](https://www.axcethr.com/about-us/) - [Corporate Philantropy](https://www.axcethr.com/about-us/corporate-philanthropy/) - [Meet the Team](https://www.axcethr.com/about-us/meet-the-team/) - [Values and Culture](https://www.axcethr.com/about-us/values-and-culture/) - [Kansas PEO](https://www.axcethr.com/about-us/kansas-peo/) - [Missouri PEO](https://www.axcethr.com/about-us/missouri-peo/) - [Careers](https://axcethrsolutions.prismhr-hire.com/) - [Why Axcet](https://www.axcethr.com/why-axcet/) - [Why Choose Axcet?](https://www.axcethr.com/why-axcet/) - [About PEOs](https://www.axcethr.com/why-axcet/about-peos/) - 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- - - [whatsapp://send?text=https://blog.axcethr.com/first-aid-kits-for-the-office](whatsapp://send?text=https://blog.axcethr.com/first-aid-kits-for-the-office) - [mailto:?subject=Workplace%20First%20Aid%20Kits:%20What%20to%20Include%20and%20How%20to%20Manage&body=https://blog.axcethr.com/first-aid-kits-for-the-office](mailto:?subject=Workplace%20First%20Aid%20Kits:%20What%20to%20Include%20and%20How%20to%20Manage&body=https://blog.axcethr.com/first-aid-kits-for-the-office) ![Mar 16 blog image](https://blog.axcethr.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Mar%2016%20blog%20image.webp?width=840&name=Mar%2016%20blog%20image.webp) According to the latest data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), private-industry employers in the U.S. reported about **2.6 million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses in 2023**, equal to a total-recordable case rate of roughly **2.4 per 100 full-time workers** — the lowest rate since the series began in 2003. ([Bureau of Labor Statistics](https://www.bls.gov/opub/ted/2025/there-were-2-6-million-nonfatal-workplace-injuries-and-illnesses-in-2023.htm?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) At the same time, fatal workplace injuries were down: there were **5,283 work-related deaths in 2023**, a 3.7% drop from 2022, translating to about **3.5 fatalities per 100,000 full-time equivalent workers**. ([Bureau of Labor Statistics](https://www.bls.gov/news.release/pdf/cfoi.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) With both nonfatal and fatal injury rates persisting, a properly stocked first-aid kit remains a crucial safeguard — not only for addressing everyday accidents and minor injuries, but also as a first-response tool when serious incidents occur. Whether treating minor injuries on-site or serving as the first response before professional medical attention arrives, a well-prepared first aid kit can make all the difference in protecting employees’ health and safety. RELATED: [Workplace Safety Laws Every Business Must Follow >>](https://blog.axcethr.com/health-safety-laws-all-businesses-must-follow) ## What Constitutes First Aid? The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) defines first aid as immediate, one-time treatment for minor injuries. Examples outlined by OSHA include: - Applying bandages or dressings - Using non-prescription medications like acetaminophen - Cleaning minor cuts, scrapes or scratches - Rinsing debris from the eyes - Increasing fluid intake for heat-related issues - Applying ice or heat to relieve pain If treatment involves prescription medication, medical technology or a healthcare provider, it is generally **no longer considered first aid** under OSHA standards. [![New call-to-action](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/2652187/7a156e57-223b-463a-a47b-67655f7a39f9.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/2652187/7a156e57-223b-463a-a47b-67655f7a39f9) ## OSHA Requirements for First Aid Kits OSHA requires employers to maintain accessible workplace first aid kits with supplies suited to the specific hazards of their work environment. While OSHA does not provide a definitive list of required items, it references guidelines from the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), which establish the minimum recommended supplies. RELATED: [No More Close Calls - 5 Steps to Eliminate Slips, Trips and Falls >>](https://blog.axcethr.com/5-ways-to-keep-slips-and-falls-from-tripping-up-your-workplace) ## Stocking Your First Aid Kit: What to Include Your workplace first aid kit should reflect the level of risk associated with your industry. For example, a corporate office may require only basic supplies, while a manufacturing facility or construction site needs more comprehensive kits.  [ANSI recommendations include](https://www.safetyandhealthmagazine.com/articles/19019-first-aid-requirements): ### Basic supplies - Adhesive bandages (various sizes) - Adhesive tape - Antibiotic ointment - Antiseptic wipes - Sterile pads and gauze - First-aid guide ### Personal protective equipment (PPE) - Gloves - Breathing barriers (for CPR) - Eyewash solution ### Injury treatment items - Cold packs - Burn dressings - Roller bandages - Trauma pads ### Emergency tools - Scissors - Splints - Triangular bandages - Tourniquets Employers in high-risk industries should consider bleeding control kits, specialized burn care supplies and additional PPE. RELATED: [Overdose Prevention in the Workplace - The Importance of Naloxone Kits >>](https://blog.axcethr.com/naloxone-kits-a-vital-workplace-tool-for-overdose-prevention) ## Determining How Many Workplace First Aid Kits You Need The number of first aid kits a workplace requires depends on three key factors: ### **Workplace size** Multi-floor or complex layouts may require multiple kits. If it takes more than 60 seconds to travel between two areas, more kits may be necessary. ### **Number of employees** The more employees in a workplace, the more first aid kits should be available. ### **Workplace risk level** High-risk workplaces (such as construction sites or manufacturing facilities) require more comprehensive first aid kits than low-risk environments (such as offices or retail shops). ## Recommended Workplace First Aid Kit Quantities ### **High-risk workplaces** - 1 small kit for fewer than 5 employees - 1 medium kit for 5-25 employees - 1 large kit per group of more than 25 employees ### **Low-risk workplaces** - 1 small kit for fewer than 25 employees - 1 medium kit for 25-100 employees - 1 large kit per group of more than 100 employees To explore the full ANSI/ISEA Z308.1-2021 requirements—including the current minimum-supply list—consult this [ANSI article](https://blog.ansi.org/ansi/what-is-in-a-first-aid-kit-ansi-isea-z308-1/), updated in March 2024. ## Where to Keep First Aid Kits OSHA requires first aid kits to be **readily available and easily accessible**—but what does that mean in practice?  For workplaces housed in a single building, employers must determine strategic locations where kits are most accessible.  Larger facilities or multiple-location organizations may need several first aid stations to comply with OSHA's accessibility standards. [![first aid training](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/2652187/a9a885aa-d952-469a-be79-2e22c50553df.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/2652187/a9a885aa-d952-469a-be79-2e22c50553df) ## Maintaining Your First Aid Kits One of the most common mistakes employers make is failing to restock their workplace first aid kits after supplies are used. To ensure compliance and [workplace safety](https://blog.axcethr.com/workplace-safety-risk-management), companies should establish procedures that include: - **Routine inspections and restocking** to ensure supplies are available when needed. - **Immediate replenishment** after a multiple-injury incident. - **A clear notification process** so employees can report used or missing supplies. [![Workplace safety consulting services led by Axcet’s credentialed experts](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/2652187/interactive-189244092592.png)](https://blog.axcethr.com/hs/cta/wi/redirect?encryptedPayload=AVxigLIv3uFaHMSQwR8GiaIO9pinTr4S4g0Alrhuos56xhDdofCRFKyI%2BbVnMhpsY0ImZrsCyOpqVSItPfc6ApyKGTIoKf4wrxIOiTd2nHqzDqY2h8CtFajtm4l7lKjS1%2BPINzYL2Bk7awcW%2BFl94wK8xvoCduAgT%2FWRoNtjQsMwHyqNx8XkpsbAMKbuZNgGbIsLGoQqr8OrOTZRGB3m%2BYj1I67T%2FXguJ9nstbfUKZO5vuhl4GY89%2BmeNgpzyPSuGW%2FyTjmH683MqpmuGMcxfrLda%2BBaTPLx4qdmGWrIb0ueu6iQQgPE6LaMZsOu&webInteractiveContentId=189244092592&portalId=2652187) ## What Employees Need to Know A well-stocked workplace first aid kit is only effective if employees know where to find it and how to use it. Employers should provide periodic first aid training to ensure workers are prepared to respond to minor injuries and understand when professional medical care is necessary. ## Prioritizing Workplace Safety ### Staying compliant with workplace safety standards can be challenging. At Axcet HR Solutions, our comprehensive [PEO services](https://www.axcethr.com/services/) include expert [risk management](https://www.axcethr.com/services/workers-comp-and-employee-safety-risk-management/) and [workplace safety consulting](https://www.axcethr.com/services/workers-comp-and-employee-safety-risk-management/workplace-safety/).  ### We help businesses determine their OSHA compliance needs, conduct risk assessments, and ensure their workplace first aid kits and safety programs meet industry-specific regulations. ### Don’t leave compliance to chance—partner with Axcet HR Solutions today to create a safer, OSHA-compliant workplace. [Schedule a free consultation](https://www.axcethr.com/schedule-consultation/) to learn more. [![Follow Axcet HR Solutions on Facebook](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/2652187/interactive-178216580776.png)](https://blog.axcethr.com/hs/cta/wi/redirect?encryptedPayload=AVxigLJ%2By4xHT296kT%2Fia0ZlotFwDsFk6ei3Pm%2BBVv%2F7%2Fa5ePYvZCW9SVAsl4CrosmADjdZWlxOjiwgKwPWQcQOS137nOGEe2iMXeTpiZ7XBf%2BbO7lAeMAFLIXZwJjGFaazmRNpMKPhKedTWX2WekiYB%2F63A8Fidz1ZwWpE1zqVnVa6LZ9Qi&webInteractiveContentId=178216580776&portalId=2652187) [![Sam Hihn](https://blog.axcethr.com/hs-fs/hubfs/_DSC9345-Edit.jpg?width=80&height=80&name=_DSC9345-Edit.jpg)](https://blog.axcethr.com/author/sam-hihn) Written by #### [Sam Hihn](https://blog.axcethr.com/author/sam-hihn) Sam Hihn is a Safety and Health Consultant at Axcet HR Solutions, where he helps businesses build safer, more compliant workplaces through practical, hands-on risk management strategies. He works closely with client organizations to identify hazards, strengthen safety practices, and implement programs that protect employees while supporting operational efficiency. Sam partners directly with business leaders and frontline teams to assess workplace environments, equipment, and processes, ensuring alignment with OSHA standards and other regulatory requirements. He develops customized safety and health programs tailored to each organization's needs and provides guidance through OSHA inspections, citation responses, and corrective action planning—helping clients navigate compliance with clarity and confidence. A key part of Sam's work is translating complex safety requirements into clear, actionable steps. He conducts safety training, supports incident investigations to determine root causes, and delivers practical recommendations to prevent future issues. His approach focuses not only on meeting regulatory standards but on building sustainable safety practices that become part of everyday operations. With a background in manufacturing and safety roles, Sam brings real-world perspective to the challenges employers face. He is known for his approachable style, attention to detail, and commitment to helping teams take ownership of workplace safety. Through his writing, Sam shares actionable insights and guidance to help employers reduce risk, improve compliance, and create safer environments where employees can thrive. Read more [View all posts →](https://blog.axcethr.com/author/sam-hihn) ### Get HR Updates ### Table of Contents #### [Menopause in the Workplace: Breaking the Stigma and Providing Support ![A group of HR leaders discussing the challenges of menopause in the workplace and how businesses can provide support.](https://blog.axcethr.com/hubfs/menopause-in-the-workplace%20(1).webp)](https://blog.axcethr.com/menopause-in-the-workplace) #### [![Jeanette Coleman discusses how to support working moms](https://blog.axcethr.com/hubfs/working-moms-_1_%20(1)%20(1).webp) 6 Ways to Create a Workplace Where Working Moms Succeed](https://blog.axcethr.com/how-to-support-working-moms) ## Let us know what you think... ![AxcetHR Blog](https://blog.axcethr.com/hubfs/AxcetHR2021%20Blog/axcethr_logo_white%20(1).png) - [Why Axcet](https://www.axcethr.com/why-axcet/) - [What We Stand For](https://www.axcethr.com/about-us/what-we-stand-for/) - [Expertise](https://www.axcethr.com/expertise/) - [Employee Benefits](https://www.axcethr.com/services/employee-benefits/) - [Human Resources](https://www.axcethr.com/services/human-resources/) - [Payroll Services](https://www.axcethr.com/services/payroll-and-tax-administration-services/) - [Risk Management](https://www.axcethr.com/services/workers-comp-and-employee-safety-risk-management/) - [Meet the Team](https://www.axcethr.com/about-us/meet-the-team/) - [Subscribe to Latest Resources](https://www.axcethr.com/subscribe-to-the-latest-resources/) - [Resource Library](https://www.axcethr.com/expertise/resource-library/) - [\[ Client Portal \]](https://www.axcethr.com/client-services/) - - - - - Search for: Copyright © 2023 Axcet HR Solutions – Kansas City's PEO Since 1988 | [Privacy Policy](https://www.axcethr.com/privacy-policy/) | [Terms and Conditions](https://www.axcethr.com/terms-conditions/) | [**Join our Team – Careers »**](https://axcethrsolutions.prismhr-hire.com/) 10975 Grandview Drive Suite 200, Corporate Woods Building 27, Overland Park, KS 66210 | Call us: 913-383-2999 *The IRS does not endorse any particular For more information on [certified professional employer organizations](https://www.axcethr.com/why-axcet/certified-peo/), go to [www.irs.gov](https://www.irs.gov).* Remove cookies ![](https://dc.ads.linkedin.com/collect/?pid=43031&fmt=gif) ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Sam Hihn", "url" : "https://blog.axcethr.com/author/sam-hihn" }, "dateModified" : "2026-09-18T03:14:15.941Z", "datePublished" : "2025-03-19T12:00:00.000Z", "headline" : "Workplace First Aid Kits: What to Include and How to Manage", "image" : [ "https://blog.axcethr.com/hubfs/Mar%2016%20blog%20image.webp" ], "mainEntityOfPage" : { "@id" : "https://blog.axcethr.com/first-aid-kits-for-the-office", "@type" : "WebPage" }, "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://blog.axcethr.com/hubfs/_logo_axcethr_primary.png" }, "name" : "Axcet HR Solutions" } } ``` ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@id" : "https://www.axcethr.com/#organization", "@type" : "Organization", "address" : { "@type" : "PostalAddress", "addressCountry" : "US", "addressLocality" : "Kansas City", "addressRegion" : "MO" }, "aggregateRating" : { "@type" : "AggregateRating", "bestRating" : "5", "ratingValue" : "5", "reviewCount" : "100" }, "areaServed" : { "@type" : "Country", "name" : "United States" }, "award" : [ "IRS Certified Professional Employer Organization (CPEO)", "Award-Winning HR Solutions Provider", "SHRM Certified HR Professionals", "HRCI Certified HR Professionals" ], "contactPoint" : { "@type" : "ContactPoint", "areaServed" : "US", "availableLanguage" : "English", "contactType" : "Customer Service" }, "description" : "Award-winning Professional Employer Organization (PEO) providing comprehensive HR solutions, payroll services, employee benefits, and risk management to small and mid-sized businesses. 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(Bureau of Labor Statistics) At the same time, fatal workplace injuries were down: there were 5,283 work-related deaths in 2023, a 3.7% drop from 2022, translating to about 3.5 fatalities per 100,000 full-time equivalent workers. (Bureau of Labor Statistics) With both nonfatal and fatal injury rates persisting, a properly stocked first-aid kit remains a crucial safeguard — not only for addressing everyday accidents and minor injuries, but also as a first-response tool when serious incidents occur. Whether treating minor injuries on-site or serving as the first response before professional medical attention arrives, a well-prepared first aid kit can make all the difference in protecting employees’ health and safety. RELATED: Workplace Safety Laws Every Business Must Follow >> What Constitutes First Aid? The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) defines first aid as immediate, one-time treatment for minor injuries. Examples outlined by OSHA include: Applying bandages or dressings Using non-prescription medications like acetaminophen Cleaning minor cuts, scrapes or scratches Rinsing debris from the eyes Increasing fluid intake for heat-related issues Applying ice or heat to relieve pain If treatment involves prescription medication, medical technology or a healthcare provider, it is generally no longer considered first aid under OSHA standards. OSHA Requirements for First Aid Kits OSHA requires employers to maintain accessible workplace first aid kits with supplies suited to the specific hazards of their work environment. While OSHA does not provide a definitive list of required items, it references guidelines from the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), which establish the minimum recommended supplies. RELATED: No More Close Calls - 5 Steps to Eliminate Slips, Trips and Falls >> Stocking Your First Aid Kit: What to Include Your workplace first aid kit should reflect the level of risk associated with your industry. For example, a corporate office may require only basic supplies, while a manufacturing facility or construction site needs more comprehensive kits. ANSI recommendations include: Basic supplies Adhesive bandages (various sizes) Adhesive tape Antibiotic ointment Antiseptic wipes Sterile pads and gauze First-aid guide Personal protective equipment (PPE) Gloves Breathing barriers (for CPR) Eyewash solution Injury treatment items Cold packs Burn dressings Roller bandages Trauma pads Emergency tools Scissors Splints Triangular bandages Tourniquets Employers in high-risk industries should consider bleeding control kits, specialized burn care supplies and additional PPE. RELATED: Overdose Prevention in the Workplace - The Importance of Naloxone Kits >> Determining How Many Workplace First Aid Kits You Need The number of first aid kits a workplace requires depends on three key factors: Workplace size Multi-floor or complex layouts may require multiple kits. If it takes more than 60 seconds to travel between two areas, more kits may be necessary. Number of employees The more employees in a workplace, the more first aid kits should be available. Workplace risk level High-risk workplaces (such as construction sites or manufacturing facilities) require more comprehensive first aid kits than low-risk environments (such as offices or retail shops). Recommended Workplace First Aid Kit Quantities High-risk workplaces 1 small kit for fewer than 5 employees 1 medium kit for 5-25 employees 1 large kit per group of more than 25 employees Low-risk workplaces 1 small kit for fewer than 25 employees 1 medium kit for 25-100 employees 1 large kit per group of more than 100 employees To explore the full ANSI/ISEA Z308.1-2021 requirements—including the current minimum-supply list—consult this ANSI article, updated in March 2024. Where to Keep First Aid Kits OSHA requires first aid kits to be readily available and easily accessible—but what does that mean in practice? For workplaces housed in a single building, employers must determine strategic locations where kits are most accessible. Larger facilities or multiple-location organizations may need several first aid stations to comply with OSHA's accessibility standards. Maintaining Your First Aid Kits One of the most common mistakes employers make is failing to restock their workplace first aid kits after supplies are used. To ensure compliance and workplace safety, companies should establish procedures that include: Routine inspections and restocking to ensure supplies are available when needed. Immediate replenishment after a multiple-injury incident. A clear notification process so employees can report used or missing supplies. What Employees Need to Know A well-stocked workplace first aid kit is only effective if employees know where to find it and how to use it. Employers should provide periodic first aid training to ensure workers are prepared to respond to minor injuries and understand when professional medical care is necessary. Prioritizing Workplace Safety Staying compliant with workplace safety standards can be challenging. At Axcet HR Solutions, our comprehensive PEO services include expert risk management and workplace safety consulting. We help businesses determine their OSHA compliance needs, conduct risk assessments, and ensure their workplace first aid kits and safety programs meet industry-specific regulations. Don’t leave compliance to chance—partner with Axcet HR Solutions today to create a safer, OSHA-compliant workplace. Schedule a free consultation to learn more.", "author" : { "@id" : "https://blog.axcethr.com/author/sam-hihn#author", "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Sam Hihn", "url" : "https://blog.axcethr.com/author/sam-hihn" }, "dateCreated" : "2025-03-19", "dateModified" : "2026-09-18", "datePublished" : "2025-03-19", "description" : "According to the latest data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), private-industry employers in the U.S. reported about 2.6 million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses in 2023, equal to a total-recordable case rate of roughly 2.4 per 100 full-time workers — the lowest rate since the series began in 2003. 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