New Standard for First Aid Kits

If you were wondering if your first aid kit contains all the required items, check out the new Z308.1-2003 ANSI standard, "Minimum Requirements for Workplace First Aid Kits".

The standard expands the list of recommended first aid kit contents to include analgesics, burn dressings and CPR barriers. It also takes into account all types of packaging of first aid products and containers for use inside and out in mobile and stationary settings.

"Kits that comply with the standard will provide a basic range of products to deal with most types of injuries encountered in the workplace," said Janice Comer Bradley, technical director for the Industrial Safety Equipment Association (ISEA), which served as the secretariat for the new standard.

Sections of the new standard address compliance, classification of first aid kits and performance requirements for containers, required contents (including minimum performance criteria), and recommendations and precautions concerning kit use and maintenance.

For more information or to order Z308.1-2003, visit ISEA's website at www.safetyequipment.org.