First Aid Kits

UNIVERSITY WIDE RECORD

Occupational Health and Safety
- First Aid Kits -

1. Scope

These guidelines apply to workplace first aid kits supplied under the University OHS Procedure - First Aid Services. They do not apply to portable first aid kits, such as the kits provided in University vehicles or those intended for off-campus or outdoor activities.

2. Basic Contents

Refer to the First Aid Order Form for a list of the basic contents of workplace first aid kist to be provided at the University of Ballarat.

3. Additional Modules

3.1 Eye:

Where any of the following points applies to a workplace, an eye module must be added - in a clearly labelled container - to the basic first aid kit(-s):

chemical liquids or powders are handled in open containers (e.g. some laboratories, cleaners stores, etc);
spraying, hosing, compressed air or abrasive blasting operations are carried out (e.g. some laboratories, gardeners stores, some workshops, etc);
there is any possibility of flying particles (e.g. some workshops, laboratories, etc);
welding, cutting or machining operations are conducted; or
wearing of eye protection is recommended.

The eye module must contain as a minimum:

Adhesive tape 2.5 cm x 5 m (1 roll)
Eye treatment guidance notes
Eye-wash containers single use (10)
Sterile eye pads (4)

3.2 Burn:

Where any of the following points applies to a workplace, a burn module must be added - in a clearly labelled container - to the basic first aid kit(-s):

heat or flame is used in the process (e.g. kitchens, some laboratories, ceramics and metal workshops, etc);
flammable liquids or gases are used;
chemical acids or alkalies are used; or
other corrosive chemicals are used.

The burn module must contain as a minimum:

Burn treatment guidance notes
Burns dressings sterile non-adherent absorbent 7.5 cm x 5 cm (4)
Burns dressings sterile non-adherent absorbent 7.5 cm x 10 cm (2)
Clean sheeting

4. Requirements

First aid kits shall be:

dust proof with the exterior coloured white, and prominently labelled with a white cross on a green background and the words "FIRST AID" in green;
large enough to hold the contents of the kit neatly stored;
kept unlocked at all times;
readily accessible during all hours of operation (i.e. not kept in locked offices or storerooms);
regularly inspected and maintained;
located, if possible, in close proximity to a supply of clean water; and
identified by a sign complying with Australian Standard 1319 mounted high on a wall or door so as to make it as conspicuous as possible (except for portable kits).

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Warning - Uncontrolled when printed! The current version of this document is kept on the UB website.

Authorised by: University Health and Safety Policy Committee
Maintained by: Manager - Risk, Health & Safety
Review Date: Dec-2007

Original Issue: 23/05/2000
Current Version: 30/08/2005