If you’re like most businesses, schools or offices, you’ll have a first-aid kid…somewhere. “Somewhere,” of course, isn’t helpful in the event of an emergency. If it’s been a while since you checked the kit, it may not be in acceptable condition. There could be supplies missing, damaged or past their expiration date. This won’t help you much when an employee or student suffers an emergency or an injury. 

First Aid Kids Require Inventory Management

First aid inventory refers to the oversight and collection of the critical medical supplies and equipment you need to provide relief of minor injuries or initial medical assistance for major injuries or illnesses until professional help arrives. This means keeping track of varied supplies such as dressings, over-the-counter medications, bandages, antiseptics, tools, and equipment needed to deliver basic emergency care. 

A properly stocked first aid kit is essential for quickly and effectively responding to any medical emergencies or injuries that might occur on-site. It should be properly stocked – which is an ongoing process, not a one-time task – to provide adequate support for injuries such as minor cuts, bruises and burns to more severe injuries until help can be summoned. A well-stocked kit can minimize risks and hazards, boost the safety and confidence of employees and students and ensure compliance with any workplace regulations.

Establish a First-Aid Kit Checklist

Inventory shouldn’t be conducted by periodically opening the kit and examining the contents. This can lead to lax inventory management. Instead, prepare a first aid kit inventory checklist in a word document or spreadsheet. List the necessary medical supplies and equipment that need to be included in your first aid (this may vary by the type of business you do). Revisit this list regularly and use it as a guide to ensure that all essential first aid items are present, in good condition and not expired. Use it to order more supplies as needed, and periodically check to ensure your list matches your first aid kit in case employees use items without informing the keeper of the inventory list.  

Form a Relationship with a Workplace Safety Company

In order to act fast in an emergency situation, it is important for your first aid cabinet/kit to be fully stocked at all times. Shop 1stAidSupplies.com for an extensive inventory of first aid and medical supplies to choose from. Bandages, pain relieving tablets, gauze, ointment, oxygen–whatever you need, we make replenishing your inventory as easy as can be.