Ask the Expert: How Many First Aid Kits Must a Workplace Have?

QUESTION

Are there specific rules on the number and type of first aid kits a (federally regulated) workplace must have’

ANSWER

Yes, not just in the federal but all jurisdictions.

EXPLANATION

Sec. 16.7 of the federal OHS Regs. says that every workplace must have ‘a first aid kit’ required under Schedule I, which sets out the type of kit’A, B, C or D’required based on the number of employees.

Federal OHS Regulations Schedule I: First Aid Kit Requirements

Column 1. Number of Employees	Column 2. Type of First Aid Kit Required
2 to 5	A
6 or more, where first aid attendant must have at least a basic first aid certificate	B
6 or more, where first aid attendant must have at least a standard first aid certificate	C
1, detached from the main party in a remote workplace	D
1 to 3, travelling by snowmobile or other small vehicle, other than a truck, van or automobile	D

Schedule II (which you can access using the above hyperlink) sets out the components and quantity of each item that a Type A, B, C and D kit must contain. Schedule III lists additional items required for remote workplaces.