CLASS A VS. CLASS B Class A kits have contents capable of responding to most common workplace injuries, including minor burns and eye injuries. Class B kits treat injuries in densely populated areas and high-risk environment workplaces such as factories, foundries, and warehouses. ANSI Standard Class A: Required Min. Fill Z308.1‑2021 (eff. Oct. 15, 2022) 16 Adhesive Bandage 1x3 in. 1 Adhesive Tape 2.5 yd. (Total) 10 Antibiotic Application 1/57 oz. 10 Antiseptic 1/57 oz. 1 Breathing Barrier 1 Burn Dressing (Gel Soaked) 4x4 in. 10 Burn Treatment 1/32 oz. 1 Cold Pack 4x5 in. 2 Eye Covering w/Means of Attachment 2.9 sq. in. 1 Eye/Skin Wash 1 fl. oz. (Total) 1 First-Aid Guide 10 Hand Sanitizer 1/32 oz. (increased as of Oct. 2022) 2 Medical Exam Gloves 1 Roller Bandage 2 in. x 4 yd. 1 Scissor 2 Sterile Pads 3x3 in. 2 Trauma Pads 5x9 in. 1 Triangle Bandage 40x40x56 in. 1 Foil Blanket 52x84 in (added as of Oct. 2022) ANSI Standard Class B: The Type B kit has a Splint and Tourniquet added to the list above, with an increased number of supplies listed for Type A. Type of First-Aid Kit Containers • Type I containers are used in stationary indoor settings. No rough handling. • Type II containers are used in portable indoor settings. No rough handling. • Type III containers are used for mobile, indoor/outdoor settings. • Type IV containers are used for portable use in outdoor settings where rough handling is a factor. Commentary: Management should make prudent decisions on the number and location of the first-aid kits. While the regulations are silent on the number of kits, employers must consider whether multiple kits are needed based on facility layout, number of employees and access to the kits during the work day. Distance from the clinic must also be part of the decision-making process. Get at least one kit for every 40 employees. First, keep in mind that all areas of employment should have access to kits. For example, if one department is open on a Saturday, a kit must be available to employees in that area. Secondly, these kits are subject to pilferage and abuse. To avoid pilferage, the first-aid kit may be placed in the office or the open view of the manager. If an employee is observed using multiple bandages more often than others, the employee can be counseled on safety and proper work procedure to avoid slicing his/her hand multiple times a day! Ensure access is not compromised, i.e., kits must remain completely accessible when employees are present. • Inspect and refill First-Aid kits monthly. • Keep a written log. Discard expired items promptly. • Disinfect cabinet surfaces frequently. • Ensure labeling and markings are legible and permanent. • Check that each kit and its location are visibly marked. • Place signs at a conspicuous location that indicate the locations of First-Aid kits on site. Conclusion: First-Aid kits will help reduce the severity of an injury. However, proper use of tourniquets and splints would require medical knowledge such as that from an MD or RN, which may not be available at most places of employment. An employee certified in first-aid may be an option. Employers who choose not to have first-aid kits violate the law and risk losing productive time when employees must rush to the local drug store for a bandage every time they incur an injury. Note: Ref: Information from www.osha.gov and www.dir.ca.gov were used to prepare this newsletter. DISCLAIMER: The contents of this newsletter are for informational purposes only and are not considered legal advice. Employers must consult their lawyer for legal matters and EPA/OSHA consultants for environmental, Health & Safety. The article was authored by Sam Celly of Celly Services, Inc., who has been helping automobile dealers in Arizona, California, Hawaii, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, Texas, and Virginia comply with EPA and OSHA regulations for over 35 years. Sam is a Certified Safety Professional (No. 16515) certified by the National Board of Certified Safety Professionals. Sam received his BE (1984) and MS (1986) in Chemical Engineering, followed by a J.D. from Southwestern University School of Law (1997). Sam is a member of the American Chemical Society (No. 31176063), American Industrial Hygiene Association (No. 124715), and National Association of Dealer Counsel (NADC). Sam also serves on the Board of the Orange County American Industrial Hygiene Association and CA Industrial Hygiene Council (CIHC). Our newsletters can be accessed at www.epaoshablog.com. Your comments/ questions are always welcome. Please send them to sam@cellyservices.com. NCDA.COM 19
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