The small first-aid kit C (DIN 13157) and the large first-aid kit E (DIN 13169) must meet new requirements in companies from May 1, 2022. The mandatory content of dressing and plaster material has been adapted to the reality in the companies: For this purpose, the quick wound dressing, fingertip dressing, finger dressing and the plaster strips in the sizes 7.2 x 1.9 centimeters and 7.2 x 2.5 centimeters respectively have been increased by a third. Also new in both first-aid kits are skin cleansing tissues and face masks, which must at least comply with DIN EN 14683 for surgical masks. “Despite the change in standards, existing first-aid kits can continue to be used. However, their contents should be adapted accordingly by the end of April, for which most manufacturers offer supplementary sets,” emphasizes Andreas Kaulen, occupational safety expert at TÜV Rheinland.
The reason for the supplement can be, for example, the next regular inspection of the first-aid kits. Irrespective of the fact that first aid materials need to be replenished after an emergency, they should also be checked regularly. Individual plasters are often not replenished, and checking them in line with consumption ensures that the boxes are always sufficiently filled.
First aid materials must be appropriate to the hazards in the company
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Act, entrepreneurs are obliged to take the necessary first aid measures in accordance with the type of workplace and activity as well as the number of employees. According to the Technical Regulation for Workplaces ASR A4.3, the following minimum requirements apply to companies: In administrations and trade, one small first-aid kit is mandatory for up to 50 employees, and one large or two small ones for more employees. In manufacturing companies, a small first-aid kit is sufficient for up to 20 employees, above that a large one and then another large first-aid kit for every 100 employees. “The risk assessment is also important for first aid materials. If hazardous substances are handled in the company, for example, a first-aid kit is usually not enough. Materials tailored to the hazardous substances must also be kept on hand in order to be able to react quickly in the event of accidents involving chemicals. And, of course, first aiders must be trained in the use of these special first aid materials,” explains Kaulen.
Mandatory masks for vehicle first-aid kits
In February 2022, the DIN standard for first-aid kits in vehicles was also revised. It will become mandatory in February 2023, but in view of the Corona pandemic, it is already sensible to implement the change and add two face masks. These must at least comply with DIN EN 14683 for surgical masks.
“Just like the gloves, the masks now newly included in the first-aid kit are intended to protect both helpers and accident victims from infection. This applies not only to protection against SARS-CoV‑2, but also to other respiratory-transmissible diseases. This lowers the inhibition threshold to provide rapid first aid in an emergency.”
- Andreas Kaulen
