How to Build a Custom First Aid Kit for Your Industry

When it comes to workplace safety, one size does not fit all. Whether you run a construction site, a beauty salon, or a corporate office, having a custom first aid kit that suits your environment is essential. Understanding what’s required by the BSI first aid kit standards and tailoring it to your specific risks is key to effective first aid provision and HSE compliance.

Why You Should Customise Your First Aid Kit

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) states that employers are responsible for ensuring that adequate and appropriate first aid equipment is available at all times. The British Standards Institution (BSI) has issued guidance on first aid kit contents in BS 8599-1, but this is only a starting point.

Every industry faces unique hazards. A BSI first aid kit designed for an office may not meet the needs of a high-risk environment like a manufacturing plant or a farm. That’s where a needs assessment and tailored contents come into play.

BSI First Aid Kit Categories Explained

BSI BS 8599-1:2019 defines three sizes of kits depending on the number of people and risk level:

• Small Kit: Low-risk workplaces with fewer than 25 employees
• Medium Kit: Higher-risk workplaces or larger teams
• Large Kit: High-risk environments with 100+ employees

All BSI kits should include basics such as:

• Sterile dressings and bandages
• Eye pads
• Disposable gloves
• Adhesive plasters
• Resuscitation face shields
• Burn dressings
• Scissors and safety pins

But this standard kit may need to be enhanced depending on your industry-specific risks.

Examples of Industry-Specific Additions

Industry	Recommended Additions
Construction	Critical injury packs, trauma dressings, tourniquets, eye wash stations
Hospitality & Catering	Blue detectable plasters, burn kits, antiseptic wipes
Education	Paediatric kits, hypoallergenic plasters, cold packs
Farming / Agriculture	Tick removers, saline solution, large wound dressings
Beauty & Aesthetics	Sharps containers, antiseptic solutions, gloves in multiple sizes

How to Stay HSE Compliant

The best way to ensure compliance with HSE first aid kit requirements is to carry out a full first aid needs assessment. This will guide you in selecting the right size and type of kit, as well as any additional contents based on your identified risks.

Review your kit contents at least annually, or whenever changes in staff numbers, location, or workplace activities occur. Always ensure your kits are easily accessible and clearly marked.

Order Customised First Aid Kits with ProTrainings

At ProTrainings Europe Ltd, we supply a wide range of BSI-compliant first aid kits and specialist items, including trauma kits, burn kits, and eye wash stations. Whether you need a standard setup or a fully customised solution, our team can help you meet your legal obligations and protect your staff.

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Final Thoughts

A well-stocked and tailored workplace first aid kit can make the difference between a minor incident and a serious injury. Don’t rely on generic kits—build a solution that fits your unique risks, supports your staff, and complies with all UK regulations.

Need help choosing the right kit? Contact us today.