Many first aid kits are breaking the law, warns Slingsby

Many UK businesses are breaking the law and putting their staff at risk by neglecting their first aid kits, warns work place equipment provider http://www.slingsby.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">Slingsby.

"Most first aid kits that we see are either missing essential items or contain the wrong things completely, " said Slingsby marketing director Lee Wright. "Employers can face hefty penalties for breaking health and safety laws and usually there is no excuse for it, especially for the sake of a few bandages or a pack of plasters."

According to Wright, many companies forget about their first aid kit until there is an accident, meaning that many items are not replaced.

To avoid penalties, he added, firms need to make responsibility for first aid kits an integral part of a staff member's job description. The kit should be checked on a regular basis and notices prominently displayed explaining where the kit is stored and who is responsible for it.

The law also requires bosses to provide appropriate equipment, facilities and training for first aiders relevant to the specific hazards of the job.

Slingsby sells a range of first aid kits for small to large organisations, along with a first aid room furniture package.