Table of Contents
Last Updated on October 17, 2022
First aid kits have been around since the 1890s and were originally made for railroad workers. These men often passed away from their injuries simply because they could not get proper medical care fast enough. Since the initial first aid kits were created, they have become staples in all work environments. As almost 150 million people in North America are employed full time, accidents are likely to happen anytime, anywhere, and unexpectedly. All it takes is a stroke of bad luck or a little negligence for someone to get hurt and need medical help.
Injuries Happen Often
In the United States and Canada combined, there were 3 million nonfatal workplace injuries reported in 2015. There are laws in Canada and the U.S. that require first aid kits to be readily available to all workers. Depending on distance to a healthcare facility, training employees on how to administer first aid services may be necessary too. Common accidents can vary depending on the industry, risks, and hazards that workers are exposed to, but usually include the following:
- Overexertion
- Cuts, lacerations, punctures
- Bruises, contusions
- Burns
- Slips, trips, and falls
- Reaction injuries
- Walking into or struck by objects
Be Prepared
Cuts, slips, scrapes, and other maladies are inevitable, but must be properly addressed when they occur on the job. The first step to addressing any workplace injury is to provide medical attention, which could be in the form of a first aid kit and administered by a trained employee. Failure to do so will reflect poorly on your business if the injured worker files a claim and violates the Occupational Safety and Health Association’s standards, which state that “In the absence of an infirmary, clinic, or hospital in near proximity to the workplace which is used for the treatment of all injured employees, a person or persons shall be adequately trained to render first aid. Adequate first aid supplies shall be readily available.” 29 CFR 1910.151 (b)
The Cost of Injuries
Time off due to an injury can be a costly burden for businesses due to healthcare costs and loss of productivity. North American companies pay nearly $603 billion dollars per year for lost productivity caused by injuries, illnesses, and other health problems.
Because it is better to be safe than sorry and there are a variety of requirements to fulfill, our first aid kits are made to meet or exceed needs to keep everyone secure and ensure that businesses comply with all of their standards. The right facility supplies at the right time can make a great difference in any health-related situation.
