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Staying Compliant with Cal/OSHA: The Updated First Aid Kit Standards
Did you know that that the Cal/OSHA workplace first aid kit requirements were updated in April 2022? Do you have the right supplies and equipment to be compliant with the updated regulations?
Cal/OSHA is a State program that enforces laws and regulations to protect the health and safety of workers. The California Occupational Safety and Health Administration (Cal/OSHA) Standard 3400 outlines the essential items that must be included in a general industry first aid kit. The list is tailored to the number of employees working at a location (see below).
Cal/OSHA’s standards are more strict and rigorous than federal standards. If your business is based in or operates in California, you may be reviewed by an inspector at any time. This information will help you be ready.
What is Cal/OSHA Standard 3400?
As a California employer, you need to understand the Cal/OSHA Standard 3400 for Medical Services and First Aid. We’ve summarized the Standard here:
(a) Employer shall ensure the ready availability of medical personnel for advice and consultation on matters of industrial health or injury.
(b) In the absence of an infirmary, clinic, or hospital, in near proximity to the workplace, which is used for the treatment of all injured employees, a person or persons shall be adequately trained to render first aid. Training shall be equal to that of the American Red Cross or the Mine Safety and Health Administration.
(c) Employers shall evaluate the need for first-aid supplies and shall ensure that there are adequate quantities and types of first-aid materials, readily available for employees on every job.
(1) Such materials shall be kept in a sanitary and usable condition.
(2) A frequent inspection shall be made of all first-aid materials, which shall be replenished as necessary.
(3) At a minimum, employers shall furnish at least one first-aid kit containing the types and quantities of materials as determined by an employer-authorized, licensed physician or as listed in Table 1. Based upon its size and the type of hazards in the workplace, employers shall evaluate the need for:
(A) Additional first-kits kits.
(B) Additional types or quantities of first-aid equipment and/or supplies.
Key Updates to First Aid Kit Standards
In April 2022, the California Occupational Safety and Health Administration (Cal/OSHA) updated Standard 3400 to introduce enhanced first aid kit requirements for employers. These changes aim to improve workplace safety and ensure businesses are better prepared to handle emergencies. Here’s what you need to know about the updates. We have provided a first aid kit list below for you.
Additional First Aid Kits
Employers must evaluate their worksites to determine whether additional first aid kits or supplies are necessary, particularly in larger or multi-site operations.Regular Inspections and Replenishment
First aid kits must be inspected frequently and restocked as needed to ensure they remain fully equipped and ready for use.Weatherproof Containers
If first aid supplies are stored in areas exposed to weather conditions, they must be kept in weatherproof containers to protect them from damage.Trained Personnel for Field Work
For field operations involving two or more employees, at least two individuals must be trained in first aid to ensure prompt and effective response during emergencies.Standardized First Aid Kit Contents
A minimum list of required first aid materials has replaced the previous need for a physician-provided list. This ensures all businesses have a consistent baseline for workplace safety supplies.
Additional Requirements Under Cal/OSHA Standard 3400
- Physician Approval: A consulting physician must approve All first aid materials to meet compliance standards.
- Accessibility: First aid kits must be readily available to employees at every job site.
- Ongoing Maintenance: Employers are responsible for maintaining their first aid kits in good condition at all times.
- Verification of Compliance: Employers may consult their occupational health clinic to obtain a letter confirming their first aid kit meets the required standards.
Checklist for a Compliant First Aid Kit
For easy reference, here is the first aid supplies checklist published by the California Department of Industrial Relations.
Do you need to add or restock any of these items? For your convenience, we have all of the products on the list available in our online store. You will get free shipping with all orders of $99 or more.
Some types of facilities are required to have additional equipment on hand. Additionally, you may need to include a written review of your supplies by an approved physician. Refer to the Standard to see if you need this additional documentation.
We're Here to Help You
Golden State Health and Safety Solutions helps make compliance simple. Our online store offers CAL/OSHA-compliant first aid kits, refill supplies, and weatherproof containers, so your business is always prepared. Need assistance training your team? Our qualified corporate safety training ensures your employees meet CAL/OSHA’s requirements.
Our mission is to train and equip businesses to perform life-saving procedures in an emergency. In addition to our Online Store, we offer a wide range of CPR and First Aid Classes that can be tailored to meet your business’s specific needs.
Contact us today with questions about meeting Cal/OSHA’s first aid kit requirements. We look forward to serving you.