Workplace safety should be a top priority for contractors in construction, renovation and any industry. A comprehensive first aid kit is your friend on any job and as a contractor, you should have one on hand ready for any minor injury or emergency on the job. A workplace first aid kit could be the difference between being able to treat a minor injury quickly vs having a life threatening emergency.
Understanding the Risks for Contractors
Contractors face many hazards and potential injuries, making workplace safety important. From construction sites to renovation projects, contractors confront potential injuries such as cuts, abrasions, burns, falls, electrical shocks, and exposure to hazardous materials on a daily basis. Given the nature of work environments, contractors must be well-prepared to handle these injuries promptly and effectively. By recognizing these common risks and taking proactive measures to address them, contractors can prioritize the safety and well-being of themselves and their team members, fostering a secure workplace environment. A great way to make sure you’re prepared for any minor injury is to have a workplace first aid kit with you.
Key Features of a Contractor's First Aid Kit
A workplace first aid kit does not have to be a giant heavy bag with a load of first aid supplies that you won’t use. For a contractor, an important aspect of a first aid kit is it’s portability. Having a portable first aid kit helps ensure that you can keep your first aid kit while on the go. A durable case is also an important aspect as it’ll ensure that your supplies can withstand rugged job site conditions and are protected from damage. Picking a first aid kit with organized compartments and easy-access pockets will make sure that if an injury happens, you’ll quickly be able to find the right supplies easily.
This OSHA approved workplace first aid kit is portable and comes in a durable waterproof case.
What Should Be In A Contractor's Workplace First Aid Kit?
Now that we’ve covered key features of a contractor's first aid kit, we have to think about what type of supplies should be in that first aid kit. First aid supplies like:
- Bandages,
- Antibacterial ointment
- Gloves
- Oval Eye Pads
- First Aid Guide
- Pair medical gloves
- Tweezer
- Scissors
- Burn Dressing
- Cold Pack
- Adhesive Tape
- Cotton Tips
- Gauze Pads
This is not an extensive list, the supplies that you’ll need should be catered to your needs. If you are only getting supplies for yourself then the amount of these supplies you need will be different if you are getting supplies for a whole team of contractors. These supplies are important for any sort of minor injury relating to burns, cuts, splinters, or hydration that can be encountered while you or your employees are on the worksite.
Customizing Your Contractor's Workplace First Aid Kit
If you can’t find a first aid kit that fits your needs, consider customizing a first aid kit with MFASCO’s Make A Kit. A custom workplace first aid kit can ensure that you have all the supplies you need as a contractor for your worksite.
How to Maintain and Inspect Your Contractor's First Aid Kit
Once you have a kit that works for you, it’s important to remember doing regular inspections and maintenance to make sure that your first aid kit is good to go and ready to be used.
- Check expiration dates on products and ointments
- Restock/ Refill any missing supplies
- Replace any damaged or used items
- Store the kit in a secure and accessible location on the job site
MFASCO offers first aid kit refills for any supplies you might need to replace or restock. Refiling supplies is an easy way to make sure your first aid kit is up to date without having to buy a brand new one.
You never know what can happen while on the job, minor injuries have the potential to turn into major emergencies if they’re not treated quickly and properly. No matter if you’re a contractor (or are managing contractors) working on a construction site, indoors, commercial or residential sites, stay safe with a workplace first aid kit.
