When it comes to ensuring that you have the right first aid kit for your construction site, you should first consider the different American National Standards Institute (ANSI) kits. Each first aid kit falls into a class as well as a type, assigned according to ANSI standards.

First Aid Kit Classes:

• Class A: Class A first aid kits are a basic option for common workplace injuries. These types of kits are often found in offices.
• Class B: Class B first aid kits are more thoroughly stocked with tools and supplies to handle more serious injuries.

First Aid Kit Types:

• Type I: Type I first aid kits are made for indoor use in an office or similar setting. They are not made to be portable and are mounted in place so that they are easily accessible.
• Type II: Type II first aid kits are also made for indoor use and are often used in offices and similar workplaces. However, unlike Type I kits, Type II first aid kits are made to be portable and are equipped with a carrying handle.
• Type III: Type III first aid kits are for both indoor and outdoor use. They should be mounted in place, and while they typically have water and weather-resistant seals, these first aid kits should be kept either indoors or in a sheltered outdoor environment.
• Type IV: Type IV first aid kits are designed specifically for more rugged outdoor areas. They come in a portable container with water and weather-resistant seals and they are made to stand up to the hazards and other environmental factors that may exist on a worksite.

Now that you understand the different types of ANSI first aid kits, it’s easy to understand why you’ll want to have a Class B, Type IV first aid kit on your construction site at all times.

Once you determine the type of emergency kit necessary for your construction site, it’s time to determine which size. First aid kits come with enough items to provide first aid for a specific number of people. While it can be tempting to simply order one for a couple of hundred people, assuming you’ll have enough supplies for a lifetime, it's important to note that the items in your first aid kit do have expiration dates. So, when choosing an emergency kit for your construction site, you should choose one that is appropriate for the size team you have and remember to check the contents on a routine basis.

Class A and Class B first aid kits each have their own requirements. For a class B first aid kit, you’ll want to make sure it includes:

• (2) Triangular bandage
• (4) pairs of medical gloves
• (4) Trauma pad
• (1) 5-yard roll of adhesive tape
• (2) 4”x4” sterile pad
• (2) 3”x3” sterile pad
• (2) sterile eye pad
• (1) 4” x 4.1-yard roller gauze
• (2) 2”x 4.1-yard roller gauze
• (50) 1” x 3” adhesive bandage
• (1) first aid guide
• (1) pair of scissors
• (2) cold pack
• (1) CPR barrier
• (2) 4”x4” gel-soaked burn dressing
• (50) antiseptic treatment
• (25) antibiotic treatment
• (25) burn treatment
• (1) 4 fl oz eye/skin wash
• (10) hand sanitizer application
• (1) splint
• (1) tourniquet

In addition to having the proper first aid kit onsite, OSHA has a number of other requirements when it comes to workplace safety in construction, and failing to adhere to these requirements can result in a fine. You can learn more about how to stay in compliance from the Compliance Assistance Specialists (CAS) from OSHA.