First aid kit in the office: obligation, number and contents

Every business must have a first aid kit at hand, including the office. But which one is right? How many do you need? And when do you have to refill it? Here you will find everything you need to know about the first aid kit in the office.

Is a first aid kit mandatory in the office?

Yes. Under the German accident prevention regulation DGUV Regulation 1, every employer must ensure that first aid material is available. The technical rule ASR A4.3 also specifies how much is needed.

Small or large: DIN 13157 and DIN 13169

• Small company first aid kit according to DIN 13157: for small businesses and offices.
• Large company first aid kit according to DIN 13169: contains about twice as much material.

Two small kits therefore replace one large one.

How many first aid kits do you need?

For administrative and commercial businesses, ASR A4.3 specifies:

• 1 to 50 employees: one small first aid kit
• 51 to 300 employees: one large first aid kit
• 301 to 600 employees: two large first aid kits
• For every additional 300 employees: one more large first aid kit

Stricter values apply to production facilities and construction sites.

Where does the first aid kit hang?

• Easy to reach and quick to find.
• Marked with the escape sign E003 “First aid”.
• On large floors or in long corridors, it is better to distribute several kits.

You will find suitable signs among our escape signs. Read more about marking in Escape signs: meaning and regulations.

When do you have to replace the contents?

Sterile materials such as compresses and dressing packs have an expiry date, after which their sterility is no longer guaranteed. Check the kit regularly, for example every six months, and refill it immediately after every use.

Suitable refill sets are available for this, so you do not have to buy a new kit straight away.

Don’t forget first aiders

A first aid kit is only useful if someone knows what to do. That is why a business with 2 or more employees needs at least one trained first aider. In administrative businesses with more than 20 employees, 5 percent must be trained.

Frequently asked questions

Is a car first aid kit enough for the office?

No. The standards DIN 13157 and DIN 13169 apply to businesses, and a car first aid kit is equipped differently.

Who checks the first aid kit?

Usually the first aider or the occupational safety specialist. Define clearly who is responsible.

Conclusion

A first aid kit according to DIN 13157 is sufficient for most offices with up to 50 employees. Hang it clearly visible, mark it and check the expiry dates regularly. Read more in First aid kits for businesses.