A workplace emergency is the worst possible time to find your site first aid kit is missing critical supplies. Use our First Aid Kit Checklist to plan ahead and ensure your workplace health and safety team is well prepared – and well stocked.
Here’s a quick refresher on Canadian first aid roles and requirements:
First aid attendant
Every workplace with six or more employees working at a time must have a designated First Aid Attendant. The first aid attendant is responsible for administering first aid during work hours and must be available to employees at all times.
Offices with an ambulance response time of up to two hours require a First Aid Attendant with a basic first aid certificate. Those with an ambulance response time of more than two hours require a First Aid Attendant with a standard first aid certificate.
First Aid Attendants in all other workplaces with an ambulance response time of less than twenty minutes must have a basic first aid certificate. If the workplace has an ambulance response time of more than twenty minutes, the Attendant hold a standard first aid certificate.
First Aid Stations and Rooms
All workplaces must have at least one first aid station that is accessible during work hours. Clear signage should be posted, identifying the location of the first aid stations and rooms around the workplace. Each station must be inspected monthly to ensure all products are replenished and aren’t expired.
Sites with more than 200 employees working at a time require a first aid room where the First Aid Attendant can perform first aid. The room must be as close as possible to the workplace and must have easy access to restrooms. The room must contain a properly stocked first aid kit, a waste bin, a storage cupboard and counter, a cubicle or curtained off area with a cot or bed with moisture-protected mattresses and two moisture-protected pillows, a table and two or more chairs, a telephone with a current list of emergency contacts.
Recording Incidents
If first aid is administered, the First Aid Attendant must record:
- the date and time of the injury
- the full name of the injured employee
- the date, time and location where the injury occurred
- a brief description of the injury and the first aid given
- a brief description of the arrangements made for further treatment/transportation if needed
- the names of witnesses if applicable
This record must be signed and kept for two years with the first aid kit.
For more information on first aid kit supply requirements or other first aid questions, contact us today!
If you require a more accessible version of this guide, please contact us and we’d be happy to help.
