BS 8599

BS 8599

BS 8599 is a British Standard that specifies the requirements for workplace first aid kits. It was developed by the British Standards Institution (BSI) to ensure that first aid kits in the workplace are equipped with the necessary items to handle common injuries and emergencies. The standard is designed to help employers comply with health and safety regulations and to provide adequate first aid supplies for their employees.

Overview

BS 8599 was first introduced in 2011 and has since been updated to reflect changes in workplace safety needs and practices. The standard outlines the contents of first aid kits based on the size of the workplace and the level of risk associated with the work environment. It provides guidance on the types and quantities of items that should be included in a first aid kit to ensure that it is suitable for the specific needs of the workplace.

Contents of a BS 8599 First Aid Kit

The contents of a BS 8599 first aid kit are categorized into different sizes: small, medium, large, and travel kits. Each size is intended for different workplace settings and numbers of employees. The standard specifies the following items as part of a typical first aid kit:

• Adhesive plasters- Used for covering small cuts and abrasions.
• Eye pads- Sterile pads used for eye injuries.
• Triangular bandages- Used for creating slings or as additional padding.
• Safety pins- Used to secure bandages.
• Sterile dressings- Available in various sizes for covering larger wounds.
• Disposable gloves- To protect the first aider and the casualty from infection.
• Resuscitation face shield- For performing CPR safely.
• Foil blanket- To prevent hypothermia in shock victims.
• Burn dressings- For treating burn injuries.
• Scissors- For cutting bandages and clothing if necessary.
• Cleansing wipes- For cleaning wounds before dressing.

Risk Assessment and Kit Selection

Employers are required to conduct a risk assessment to determine the appropriate size and contents of the first aid kit for their workplace. Factors to consider include the number of employees, the nature of the work, and the potential hazards present. For example, a construction site may require a larger kit with additional items compared to an office environment.

Compliance and Maintenance

To comply with BS 8599, employers must ensure that first aid kits are regularly checked and maintained. This includes replacing used or expired items and ensuring that the kit is easily accessible to all employees. Training staff in basic first aid is also recommended to ensure that they can effectively use the kit in an emergency.

Also see

• First aid
• Occupational safety and health
• Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
• British Standards