Are your first aid kits OSHA compliant?

If you're a busy safety manager, you’ve probably asked—or been asked—this question more than once: “What does OSHA actually require when it comes to first aid kits?”

The answer? It boils down to two key words: adequate and accessible. According to OSHA, every workplace must have adequate first aid supplies that are readily accessible. But what does that look like in practice, especially if you're juggling dozens of responsibilities?

Here’s a quick, no-fluff breakdown of how to stay compliant, save time, and keep your team safe—based on expert safety coach David Sawyer’s hands-on experience.

✅ 1. Placement is Everything

First aid kits must be easy to find and access, especially in an emergency.

• Small teams (under 50): Place kits near common areas like time clocks or breakrooms—high visibility matters.

• Large facilities: Avoid open hallways (they get emptied fast). Instead, place kits in managerial offices or production control rooms to add accountability while keeping them accessible.

⚠️ Reminder: Kits must never be locked away. OSHA requires they be immediately accessible.

🩹 2. Stock Smart, Not Excessively

Forget the mini-pharmacy. Focus on real first-aid essentials:

• Assorted bandages (standard, butterfly, fingertip)

• Gauze and wraps

• Eyewash and burn gel (if applicable)

• Tweezers, antibiotic ointment (watch expiration dates)

• Nitrile gloves (taped on top of the kit)

💡 Avoid putting in over-the-counter meds like ibuprofen or Tylenol. Liability just isn’t worth it.

🧰 3. Uniformity is Key

Keep all kits standardized across your facility. This saves time during inspections and ensures employees always know what to expect.

📅 4. Inspect Monthly—Without Fail

OSHA doesn’t set a fixed frequency, but monthly inspections are the industry best practice.

• Add kits to your existing fire extinguisher and eyewash inspection checklist.

• Include a sign-off sheet with initials and dates inside or near the kit.

• Use a printed and laminated photo of a properly stocked kit inside the cabinet door—this makes restocking fast and foolproof.

🧾 5. Post Critical Info Near Every Kit

Turn every first aid station into a mini command center:

• Names & numbers of first responders

• Nearest urgent care or medical facility

• Accident reporting instructions (bonus: add a QR code for digital reporting—just test it in low-signal areas)

Bonus Tip: In-House vs. Outsourced Management

While outsourcing can save time, managing kits in-house is almost always cheaper and more reliable—as long as you have a system.

Need to hire it out? No problem—but inspect their inspections. Don’t assume it’s handled just because someone else is on the job.

Final Thoughts for Safety Managers

Whether you manage 5 employees or 5,000, first aid compliance doesn’t have to be complicated. Set up a solid system, inspect regularly, and keep kits standardized and accessible.

And if you want to get ahead of an OSHA audit, check out David Sawyer’s OSHA Audit Workshop and download his free OSHA Audit Checklist.

Remember: Safety isn’t just a policy—it’s a culture. Stay sharp, stay stocked, and stay safe.

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