Accident response begins with the right supplies. This guide explains how ANSI Z308.1 and OSHA requirements intersect, and provides a practical checklist to assemble, inspect, and maintain workplace first aid kits across manufacturing, construction, warehouse, and office environments. Follow these steps to reduce liability, improve response time, and keep your safety program audit-ready.
Why ANSI Z308.1 Compliance Matters and How OSHA Applies
When you look at OSHA’s rules for first aid, you might notice something interesting. The primary regulation, 29 CFR 1910.151(b), is surprisingly brief. It simply states that employers must ensure “readily available” medical personnel and first aid supplies, especially when there isn’t a hospital or clinic in “near proximity” to the workplace. What it doesn’t do is give you a shopping list. This is where many employers get stuck. How do you prove your supplies are adequate?
This is where the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) comes in. The standard, specifically ANSI/ISEA Z308.1, serves as the industry-recognized best practice for minimum workplace first aid kit contents. While following this standard is technically voluntary, OSHA explicitly refers to it in its guidance as an example of what a compliant kit looks like. Think of it this way, OSHA sets the mandatory goal, which is to have adequate first aid supplies. ANSI provides the practical, detailed roadmap to meet that goal. Ignoring this roadmap is a significant risk. During an inspection, if your kit falls short of the ANSI standard, it becomes very difficult to argue that your provisions are “adequate,” opening the door to citations.
Adopting the ANSI Z308.1 standard isn’t just about avoiding fines; it’s about effective emergency response. The standard is developed by a committee of safety experts, medical professionals, and manufacturers who analyze workplace injury data to determine what supplies are most needed for common incidents. A kit compliant with the current standard, ANSI/ISEA Z308.1-2021, is designed to handle the initial response for everything from minor cuts and scrapes to more serious injuries until professional help arrives. Always confirm you are referencing the most current version, as the requirements are updated periodically to reflect new safety research and products.
The need for a well-stocked, compliant kit becomes even clearer when you consider different work environments.
- Manufacturing and Construction: These high-hazard industries see frequent cuts, burns, eye injuries, and potential crushing injuries. A basic kit is not enough. While a Class B kit (which we’ll cover in the next chapter) is a better starting point, you must supplement it with items specific to your site’s risks, like tourniquets, more robust trauma dressings, or a larger supply of burn care products.
- Warehousing: Workers here face risks from box cutters, strains from lifting, and injuries from moving equipment. A well-placed Class A or Class B kit can handle most common incidents, but its accessibility is key in a large, sprawling facility.
- Offices: While lower risk, injuries still happen. Paper cuts, burns from kitchen appliances, and slips or falls are common. A Class A kit is typically sufficient to meet the standard for an office environment.
Real-world operational factors also play a huge role. A construction crew on a remote site without quick access to a clinic has a much greater responsibility under OSHA’s “near proximity” clause. Their first aid kit must be more comprehensive, and they need personnel trained to use it effectively. Similarly, a factory running three shifts needs to ensure the first aid kit is inspected and restocked consistently, so the night shift has the same level of protection as the day shift. If your workplace involves high-hazard tasks like welding or handling corrosive chemicals, your first aid plan must include supplemental supplies like specific eyewash solutions or burn gels designed for those exposures.
Ultimately, your first aid kit is a critical component of your larger safety program. Your decisions about its contents should be documented in your safety plan and directly linked to your Emergency Action Plan (EAP). The supplies in the kit should align with the skills of your designated first-aid responders, whose training records prove their qualifications. To demonstrate due diligence and ensure you’re prepared for both emergencies and inspections, maintain a clear paper trail.
Here is a simple checklist of documents every employer should keep to prove their first aid program is compliant and effective.
- A reference to the specific edition of the ANSI Z308.1 standard you are following (e.g., “Kits compliant with ANSI/ISEA Z308.1-2021”).
- Completed first aid kit inspection logs, showing regular checks and signatures.
- Receipts or records for restocked supplies, proving the kit is maintained.
- Current training certificates for all employees certified in first aid, CPR, and AED use.
- A copy of your site-specific Emergency Response Plan that details how to use the first aid kit and access professional medical services.
Understanding ANSI Z308.1 Kit Types, Classes, and Required Contents
To build a compliant first aid kit, you first need to understand the language of the ANSI Z308.1 standard. It’s not just about having a box of bandages; it’s about having the *right* supplies for the *right* environment. The standard organizes this through a system of Classes and Types, which helps you match your kit to your workplace’s specific risks and conditions.
First Aid Kit Classes Explained
The ANSI standard defines two primary classifications for first aid kits, Class A and Class B. The main difference between them is the breadth and quantity of supplies they contain, which directly corresponds to the level of risk in a workplace.
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Class A Kits
These kits are designed for common workplace injuries such as minor cuts, scrapes, and burns. They are the baseline for most low-risk environments. Think of workplaces where the potential for serious injury is relatively low. Good examples include offices, retail stores, and small warehouses with minimal machinery. A Class A kit provides a solid foundation for addressing the most frequent, less severe incidents. -
Class B Kits
These kits are more robust and are intended for environments where injuries may be more complex or severe. They contain a broader range and larger quantity of supplies to handle incidents that go beyond simple cuts and scrapes. Workplaces that should opt for Class B kits include construction sites, manufacturing facilities, heavy industrial settings, and large warehouses. The higher risk of serious lacerations, burns, or eye injuries in these areas necessitates a more comprehensive set of tools.
First Aid Kit Types Explained
Beyond the class, the standard specifies four kit types based on their portability and resistance to environmental factors. This ensures the kit and its contents remain safe, clean, and ready for use, no matter where they are stored.
- Type I
Intended for stationary, indoor use. These are typically wall-mounted cabinets placed in a fixed location, like an office breakroom or a factory floor. They are meant to be protected from environmental damage and are not designed to be moved. - Type II
Designed for portable indoor use. These kits have a carrying handle and are meant for situations where a first aid provider might need to bring the supplies directly to an injured person within a building. They are not built to withstand significant water or dust exposure. - Type III
Built for portable use in mobile, indoor/outdoor settings. These kits often have a water-resistant seal and are more durable. They are ideal for company vehicles or for use by a mobile work crew that moves between indoor and outdoor environments. - Type IV
The most rugged classification. These kits are for stationary, outdoor use and must be able to withstand demanding environmental conditions. They are significantly weather-resistant and often corrosion-proof, making them suitable for job sites, marine environments, or other exposed locations.
Minimum Required Contents for Class A and Class B Kits
The heart of the ANSI Z308.1 standard is its detailed list of required supplies. While you should always consult the latest version of the standard, the following table outlines the minimum contents for Class A and Class B kits based on the ANSI/ISEA Z308.1-2021 update. As OSHA notes in its non-mandatory Appendix A to 1910.151, the ANSI standard is an example of minimal contents for a generic first aid kit.
| Supply Item | Class A Minimum | Class B Minimum |
|---|---|---|
| Adhesive Bandage, 1 in. x 3 in. | 16 | 50 |
| Adhesive Tape, 2.5 yd (total) | 1 | 2 |
| Antibiotic Application, 0.5g | 10 | 25 |
| Antiseptic, 0.5g | 10 | 50 |
| Breathing Barrier | 1 | 1 |
| Burn Dressing (gel soaked), 4 in. x 4 in. | 1 | 2 |
| Burn Treatment, 1/8 oz | 10 | 25 |
| Cold Pack, 4 in. x 5 in. | 1 | 2 |
| Eye Covering with means of attachment, 2.9 sq. in. | 2 | 2 |
| Eye/Skin Wash, 1 fl oz total | 1 | 4 fl oz total |
| First Aid Guide | 1 | 1 |
| Hand Sanitizer, 1/16 oz | 6 | 10 |
| Medical Exam Gloves | 2 pairs | 4 pairs |
| Roller Bandage, 2 in. x 4 yd | 1 | 2 |
| Roller Bandage, 4 in. x 4 yd | – | 1 |
| Scissors | 1 | 1 |
| Splint, 4.0 in. x 24 in. | – | 1 |
| Sterile Pad, 3 in. x 3 in. | 2 | 4 |
| Tourniquet | – | 1 |
| Trauma Pad, 5 in. x 9 in. | 2 | 4 |
| Triangular Bandage, 40 in. x 40 in. x 56 in. | 1 | 2 |
Packaging, Labeling, and Site-Specific Additions
Packaging and Expiration
ANSI requires that all supplies be contained in packaging that is sealed, sterile where applicable, and protects the item from damage and contamination. Single-use items are standard to prevent cross-contamination. Every item with a shelf life must be clearly marked with its expiration date. A core part of kit maintenance is regularly checking these dates and replacing items before they expire.
Labeling
The kit container itself must be clearly labeled “First Aid Kit” and be protected from water and environmental damage. A durable, waterproof label is essential, especially for Type III and IV kits.
Adapting to Site-Specific Hazards
The ANSI list is a minimum. Your workplace risk assessment may identify hazards that require additional supplies. For example:
- A site with chemical splash hazards should supplement its kit with a larger, dedicated eyewash station.
- A workshop with heavy cutting machinery may benefit from adding more tourniquets or hemostatic (blood-clotting) dressings.
- A remote construction site with a long response time from emergency services should include splints, more extensive wound dressings, and possibly other trauma supplies.
These additions should not replace the required ANSI items but supplement them. It is best practice to document these additions in a site-specific annex. This document should be kept with your safety plan and list each supplementary item, its purpose, its location, and the maintenance schedule. This demonstrates a thoughtful, risk-based approach to first aid preparedness that goes beyond simple compliance.
Creating and Maintaining a Practical ANSI Z308.1 Compliance Checklist
Moving from understanding the components of an ANSI-compliant first aid kit to actively managing one is where safety theory becomes workplace reality. A fully stocked kit is useless if items are missing, expired, or inaccessible when an emergency strikes. Establishing a systematic checklist and maintenance program is not just a best practice; it is the only way to ensure your first aid program is effective and demonstrates due diligence. This process transforms the ANSI Z308.1 standard from a document into a living, functional part of your safety management system.
Developing Your Site-Specific Compliance Checklist
Your first step is to create a master checklist that serves as the foundation for all inspections and maintenance. This document should be tailored to your specific workplace, accounting for different areas and their unique risks. A one-size-fits-all approach rarely works.
- Select the Correct Kit Class for Each Area.
Based on your workplace hazard assessment, determine if a Class A or Class B kit is required for each distinct area. An office space may only need a Class A kit, while a manufacturing floor with heavy machinery will require a Class B kit. Document this decision at the top of your checklist for that specific location. - Verify the Current ANSI Standard.
Your checklist must reference the current edition, which is ANSI/ISEA Z308.1-2021. Note this on your documents to show that your program is up-to-date, as this is the standard OSHA often references as a guideline. - Build the Itemized Inventory List.
Create a detailed list of every required item for the designated kit class. For clarity, your checklist should include columns for the item name, the minimum required quantity per ANSI, the actual quantity found during inspection, and the expiration date of the item. - Incorporate Kit Placement and Accessibility Rules.
The checklist should include verification points for the kit’s physical condition and location.- Labeling: Is the kit clearly marked with a “First Aid” sign?
- Mounting: Is the wall-mounted kit securely fastened? Is the portable kit stored in its designated location?
- Accessibility: Is the path to the kit clear of obstructions? OSHA’s guidance suggests that first aid supplies should be “readily accessible,” which is commonly interpreted as being within a 3-4 minute walk from any point in the workplace.
- Signage: Are there clear, visible signs directing people to the first aid kit’s location, especially in large or complex facilities?
- Add PPE and CPR Supplies.
Ensure your checklist has specific line items for personal protective equipment for the first responder, such as medical exam gloves. Also, include a check for a CPR breathing barrier, a required component for both Class A and Class B kits.
A Practical Maintenance and Inspection Program
A checklist is only effective when used consistently. Your maintenance program should define the frequency of inspections, restocking procedures, and responsibilities.
Inspection Frequency Best Practices
A tiered inspection schedule ensures constant readiness.
- Weekly Visual Checks: A designated person in each area should quickly check that the kit is in its proper place, the tamper-evident seal is intact, and the casing is clean and undamaged. This takes less than a minute.
- Monthly Inventory Audits: A more thorough inspection using your master checklist. Every item is counted, and expiration dates are checked. Any item expiring within the next 90 days should be flagged for replacement.
- Post-Incident Restocking: This is a critical, non-negotiable step. After any first aid incident where supplies are used, the kit must be immediately inventoried and restocked. Do not wait for the next scheduled inspection.
Restocking and Expiration Monitoring
Create a simple system for managing supplies. Keep a small “top-off” stock of commonly used items like adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, and gauze pads on-site for immediate restocking. For less common or more expensive items, establish a relationship with a reliable vendor who can provide quick delivery. Use a “first-in, first-out” system for your backup supplies to rotate stock effectively. Monitoring expirations can be simplified by using a log or even placing a small color-coded sticker on items indicating the year they expire.
Roles, Responsibilities, and Recordkeeping
A successful program requires clear ownership.
- Safety Manager: Owns the overall first aid program, conducts periodic audits, and ensures records are maintained.
- Supervisors: Responsible for ensuring weekly visual checks are completed for kits in their areas and for initiating the post-incident restock process.
- First Aid Attendant/Designated Inspector: Conducts the detailed monthly inventory audits, manages the central supply stock, and maintains the inspection logs.
Personnel assigned to maintain kits must be trained on the ANSI Z308.1 standard and your company’s specific procedures. All inspection and maintenance activities must be documented. An inspection log is your proof of compliance for an OSHA audit. Retain these logs for at least three years. Integrate a review of the first aid kit logs into your regular safety committee meetings to identify trends, such as frequent use of certain items, which might indicate an underlying hazard that needs to be addressed.
Sample First Aid Kit Inspection Log
Your log should be simple and easy to use. It can be a physical tag on the kit, a logbook stored with the kit, or a digital record.
| Date | Inspector Name | Kit Location/ID | Missing/Expired Items & Quantity | Corrective Action Taken | Restock Verified (Date/Initial) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12/20/2023 | J. Smith | Warehouse Bay 3 | (2) 1″x3″ Bandages, (1) Antiseptic Wipe | Restocked from central supply | 12/20/2023 JS |
| 12/20/2023 | J. Smith | Machine Shop | Burn Dressing (Exp. 01/2024) | Flagged for replacement order |
Procurement and Multi-Site Management
When purchasing kits or supplies, always work with reputable vendors who explicitly state that their products meet ANSI/ISEA Z308.1-2021 standards. The ANSI compliance label should be clearly visible on any pre-made kit you purchase. For organizations with multiple sites, centralizing the procurement of first aid supplies can lead to significant cost savings through bulk purchasing. Consider establishing small regional stockpiles of supplies to serve multiple nearby facilities, reducing shipping times and ensuring that a site can be restocked quickly after a major incident depletes its on-hand kit.
Frequently Asked Questions about First Aid Kits and Compliance
Navigating the specifics of first aid compliance can bring up a lot of questions. After creating your checklist and setting up an inspection routine, you might still wonder about the finer points of the regulations. This section addresses the most common questions employers and safety managers ask about ANSI Z308.1, OSHA requirements, and the day-to-day management of workplace first aid kits.
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Is the ANSI Z308.1 standard mandatory for all workplaces?
Short Answer
No, the ANSI/ISEA Z308.1 standard is technically voluntary. However, OSHA’s first aid standard (29 CFR 1910.151) is mandatory, and it requires employers to have adequate first aid supplies readily available. OSHA explicitly references the ANSI standard in its non-mandatory Appendix A as an example of what it considers adequate. Following the ANSI standard is the most widely accepted way to demonstrate compliance.
Practical Action Step
Formally adopt the current ANSI Z308.1 standard as the baseline for your company’s first aid program. This creates a clear, defensible standard for your kits that aligns with OSHA’s expectations.
Verification Note
Always confirm the latest edition of the ANSI/ISEA Z308.1 standard and review OSHA 1910.151 Appendix A for current guidance. -
How do I choose between a Class A and a Class B first aid kit?
Short Answer
The choice depends on your workplace’s risk level. Class A kits are designed for common injuries like minor cuts and scrapes in low-risk environments (e.g., offices, retail). Class B kits contain more supplies and items for treating more serious injuries that could occur in higher-risk environments (e.g., manufacturing, construction, warehouses).
Practical Action Step
Perform a formal hazard assessment for each distinct work area in your facility. Document the potential for serious injuries. If your assessment identifies risks of severe bleeding, major wounds, or eye injuries, a Class B kit is the appropriate choice.
Verification Note
The ANSI/ISEA Z308.1-2021 standard provides detailed lists and descriptions for both Class A and Class B kits to guide your selection. -
What are the rules for kit locations and quantities?
Short Answer
OSHA requires that first aid supplies be “readily available.” The industry best practice, derived from the ANSI standard’s appendix, is that an injured person can reach a kit within 3-4 minutes. There is no magic number of employees per kit; it’s about response time.
Practical Action Step
Walk the path from the furthest point in a work area to the proposed kit location. If it takes more than a few minutes, you need another kit. Install kits in central, well-lit locations on every floor, near areas with higher risks, and inside company vehicles.
Verification Note
Review the non-mandatory appendix of the ANSI Z308.1 standard for guidance on placement and response time. -
Can I substitute generic items for the ones listed in the ANSI standard?
Short Answer
Yes, you can use generic or alternative items as long as they are equivalent in quality, size, and function to the items specified in the ANSI standard. The standard sets performance requirements, not brand requirements.
Practical Action Step
When restocking with a non-brand name item, compare its specifications (e.g., bandage dimensions, antiseptic wipe ingredients, sterility) to the ANSI requirements. Keep a record of this equivalence with your purchasing documents to justify the substitution if asked.
Verification Note
The ANSI Z308.1 standard details the minimum specifications for each required item, which is your guide for determining equivalency. -
How should I handle expired items and document their replacement?
Short Answer
Expired items must be removed and replaced immediately. This process should be documented in your inspection log.
Practical Action Step
Make checking expiration dates a mandatory step in your monthly documented inspection. On your inspection log, create columns for “Item Replaced,” “Reason (Expired),” and “Date Replaced.” This creates a clear paper trail showing you are actively managing your supplies.
Verification Note
While OSHA doesn’t specify a documentation format, maintaining these logs is a best practice that demonstrates due diligence during an inspection. -
Are Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) part of the ANSI Z308.1 standard?
Short Answer
No, AEDs are not a required component of an ANSI-compliant first aid kit. They are considered part of a broader first aid program, not a kit supply.
Practical Action Step
Evaluate the risk of sudden cardiac arrest at your workplace. Factors include your workforce demographics, the nature of the work, and distance from emergency medical services. If you choose to provide an AED, ensure it is part of your emergency response plan and that designated employees are trained in its use.
Verification Note
Consult OSHA’s guidance on AEDs in the workplace, which encourages their use as part of a comprehensive safety program. -
What training is required for employees who might use the first aid kits?
Short Answer
OSHA requires that in the absence of a nearby infirmary, clinic, or hospital, a person or persons shall be adequately trained to render first aid. This applies to designated first aid providers, not necessarily every employee.
Practical Action Step
Identify specific employees per shift or department to serve as designated first aid responders. Provide them with certified first aid, CPR, and AED training from a recognized organization. For all other employees, provide basic awareness training on the location of kits and how to report an injury.
Verification Note
Refer to OSHA standard 29 CFR 1910.151(b) for the specific requirement regarding trained personnel. -
How do I adapt a kit for a construction site or remote work?
Short Answer
Start with a Class B kit as your foundation and add supplemental supplies based on the specific hazards of that site. The kit must also be portable and protected from environmental damage.
Practical Action Step
For a construction site, add a tourniquet and more trauma dressings. For remote work with exposure to poisonous plants, add skin wash or barrier creams. Ensure the kit is in a durable, weather-resistant case that can be easily carried to an injured worker’s location.
Verification Note
The ANSI Z308.1-2021 standard includes a helpful appendix with recommendations for supplemental first aid supplies for specific industries and risks. -
How should we document inspections to satisfy an OSHA inspector?
Short Answer
Use a standardized inspection log for every first aid kit. The log should be kept up-to-date and be readily accessible.
Practical Action Step
Attach a physical log to each kit using a clipboard or a pouch, or maintain a central digital log. The log must include the kit’s location, the date of inspection, the inspector’s signature or initials, a checklist of required contents, and a section to note any corrective actions taken, such as restocking supplies. Keep completed logs for at least one year.
Verification Note
This documentation is your primary proof of compliance with the “readily available” and adequately supplied aspects of the OSHA 1910.151 standard. -
Do I need multiple kits for a large or multi-floor facility?
Short Answer
Yes, almost certainly. The key is the 3-4 minute response time, which is often impossible to meet with a single kit in a large or multi-level building.
Practical Action Step
Place at least one kit in a central location on each floor. For very large floors, consider placing kits at opposite ends of the building. Any area that is physically separated by doors, walls, or manufacturing processes should be evaluated for its own dedicated kit.
Verification Note
The ANSI standard’s appendix on response time is the best guide for determining kit distribution in complex facilities.
Conclusions and Practical Next Steps
Navigating first aid compliance can feel complex, but it boils down to a straightforward, repeatable process. The goal is not just to have a kit on the wall, but to have a functional program that ensures the right supplies are available and ready when an injury occurs. This moves you from a reactive stance to a proactive one, which is the foundation of a strong safety culture. Remember, OSHA’s standard 29 CFR 1910.151 requires employers to have adequate first aid supplies readily available. While OSHA doesn’t publish its own mandatory checklist, it points to the ANSI/ISEA Z308.1 standard as the primary guide for what “adequate” means. Following this voluntary standard is the most reliable way to demonstrate due diligence and meet your legal obligation. Always verify you are using the latest edition of the standard, currently ANSI/ISEA Z308.1-2021.
Your Action Plan for First Aid Compliance
This plan breaks down the process into manageable steps. Follow them in order to build a compliant and effective program from the ground up.
- Conduct a Workplace Hazard Assessment. This is your non-negotiable first step. Walk through every work area, from the office to the loading dock, and identify potential injury risks. Are there sharp tools, hot surfaces, hazardous chemicals, or risks of falls? The results of this assessment will directly determine whether you need Class A kits for common injuries or more comprehensive Class B kits for high-risk environments. It also dictates the quantity and placement of kits.
- Assemble and Place Your Kits. Based on your assessment, procure or build your first aid kits. Ensure they meet the minimum fill requirements for their designated class (A or B). Then, add any site-specific supplies identified in your assessment, such as extra burn dressings for a kitchen or a foil blanket for outdoor work. Mount the kits in well-lit, unobstructed locations that are easily accessible to all employees.
- Implement an Inspection and Restocking Routine. A first aid kit is only useful if it’s stocked. Create a simple inspection log that lists every required item. Assign responsibility for monthly inspections to a specific person, like a safety coordinator or department supervisor. This person must check for depleted supplies, expired items, and damaged packaging. Document every inspection, even if no action was needed. These logs are your proof of an active, maintained program.
- Train Designated Responders. Identify and train employees who will be responsible for rendering first aid. Their training should cover not only basic first aid and CPR but also the location of the kits, how to use the specific items inside, and the company’s procedure for reporting incidents. All employees should at least know where the kits are located and who the designated responders are.
- Organize and Store Documentation. Keep all your compliance documents in a single, accessible binder or digital folder. This includes your written hazard assessment, purchase receipts for kits and supplies, inspection logs, and records of employee training. If an OSHA inspector visits, having this information organized and ready will demonstrate a serious commitment to safety.
A 30-60-90 Day Implementation Timeline
Within 30 Days:
Assign a program owner (e.g., Safety Manager). Conduct and document the formal workplace hazard assessment. Purchase a copy of the current ANSI/ISEA Z308.1 standard to use as your definitive guide.
Within 60 Days:
Purchase or assemble the required number of Class A or Class B kits. Install them in their designated locations. Create your customized inspection checklist and log sheet based on the ANSI standard and your site-specific items.
Within 90 Days:
Conduct the first documented monthly inspection of all kits. Schedule and complete training for your designated first aid responders. Communicate the program to all employees, ensuring they know kit locations and emergency procedures.
Helpful Resources
ANSI/ISEA Z308.1-2021 Standard:
The official standard provides the complete, detailed requirements for kit contents. You can learn more and find purchasing options through the American National Standards Institute. See their overview at Workplace First Aid Kits – ANSI/ISEA Z308.1-2021.
OSHA Guidance:
OSHA provides a non-mandatory appendix that directly references the ANSI standard as a recognized guideline. This is a key document for understanding the regulatory connection. Review it at 1910.151 App A – First aid kits (Non-Mandatory).
Checklist Templates:
While many first aid suppliers offer pre-made checklists, the best practice is to create one directly from the ANSI standard you purchase. This ensures it is tailored to the specific edition you are complying with and includes any custom items you’ve added based on your hazard assessment.
Your immediate next step is to turn this guidance into action. Download a sample checklist or, better yet, use the ANSI standard to create your own. Schedule your first inventory audit for next week. A compliant first aid program is a critical, and achievable, component of a safe workplace.
Sources
- Workplace First Aid Kits – ANSI/ISEA Z308.1-2021 – The ANSI Blog — ANSI/ISEA Z308.1-2021 establishes minimum performance specifications for first aid kits and their supplies. These are intended for use in various work …
- ANSI/ISEA Z308.1-2021 Updates – First Aid & Safety – Cintas — ANSI Z308.1-2021 has been identified by OSHA as a source of guidance for minimal contents for first aid kits.
- OSHA & ANSI First Aid Kit Requirements (Updated) – ITU AbsorbTech — Minimum Requirements for First Aid Kits (Class A): ; Medical Exam Gloves, 2 pairs ; Sterile Pads, 3” x 3”, 2 ; Triangular Bandages, 1 ; Antibiotic Treatment …
- 1910.151 App A – First aid kits (Non-Mandatory) – OSHA — OSHA’s non-mandatory appendix, which references the ANSI Z308.1 standard as an example of adequate first aid kit contents.
- First Aid Kit Info – UF | EHS — Contents must meet the minimum ANSI Z308.1-2021 Class A requirements. Items (per ANSI Z308.1-2021 Class A). 1″ x 3″ Adhesive Bandages. 2.5 yd (total) Adhesive …
- Workplace First Aid Kit Requirements – The ANSI Blog — All workplaces, regardless of industry, are required to have first aid kits that are easily accessible to employees.
- Meeting OSHA’s First Aid Requirements — To meet this, OSHA recognizes the ANSI/ISEA Z308.1-2021 standard as a recommended guideline for minimum first aid kit contents. Employers …
- First Aid 2025 – California Department of Industrial Relations – CA.gov — American National Standard Institute (ANSI)/International Safety Equipment Association (ISEA) Z308.1–2021, American National Standard for …
- What Are Cal/OSHA First Aid Requirements in 2025? | — Cal/OSHA First Aid Kit Minimum Requirements for 2025. There have been no changes to the ANSI Z308.1-2021 standards for 2025. Below is a table …

