3 Easy Steps to Selecting a First Aid Kit for a Construction Site

3 Easy Steps to selecting a First Aid Kit for a Construction Site

1.  A Construction Site is classified as a High Risk workplace

Due to the nature of work and the machinery used, construction / building sites are High Risk.

A High Risk First Aid Kit will differ from a Low Risk First Aid Kit in a number of ways. So if you are buying one or buying the components to put one together yourself you should consider the following points:

• Look for a First Aid Kit that is classified as High Risk
• Ensure the First Aid Kit is well stocked
• Some useful components also include: Eye Pads, Triangular Bandages, Amputated Parts Bags and Instant Ice Pack.
• It’s casing and internal packing should be able to withstand a bump

2.  Where is the Construction Site relative to a medical facility or hospital
If an injury or illness occurs, in the worst case scenario, how long will it take to get professional help or get to professional help?

If the answer to the above question is more than one hour, you fit into the Remote category and the First Aid Kit should include the extra following items as a minimum:

• 2 x Heavy duty crepe bandages 10cm (for Snake Bites)
• a Large clean sheeting (for covering burns)
• a Thermal blanket (for treating shock),
• a Whistle for attracting attention, and a
• torch or flashlight

A Remote First Aid Kit is more comprehensive than a standard kit because it takes into consideration caring for yourself or the patient for an extended period of time before help arrives.

Some added extra components that are quite often missed in First Aid Kit is for potential burn injuries such as flash burns from gas welders or standard heat burns from hot metals or water.  On a construction site these type of injuries are common and your kit should have the following to account for such injuries:

• burn treatment instructions on two waterproof instruction cards (one is for the kit itself and the other should be place next to the emergency shower or water supply)
• hydrogel – minimum of 8 x 3.5g sachets (such as Burnaid)
• hydrogel dressings
• clean polythene sheets (small, medium and large)
• 7.5cm conforming bandage

3.  How many workers will be onsite

The number of workers will affect the number or size of the First Aid Kits. Some companies provide a table for easy reference, such as www.firstaidkits.com.au/first-aid-kits/construction.

Construction sites with more than 50 workers should consider special provisions, and sites with over 100 require an onsite First Aid Room. Larger sites should engage with an expert.

Finally there are some other important points to keep in mind:

• Locate the First Aid Kit close to potential accidents with access to running water
• A construction site requires 1 First Aider (with the appropriate, current skills) per 25 workers
• If your construction site is considered remote you will need 1 First Aider per 10 workers
• The value of a Defibrillator should not be underestimated
• In Australia, ensure you have cover for snake and spider bites
• Check your kit regularly to make sure it is complete and the components have not expired
• Engage with your team regularly to identify hazards early