You have many things to add to your to-do list if you plan on starting (or already own) a business and OSHA requirements may add more, depending on the industry.
Not only do you have to create a unique products or services that actually make a difference for your customers, but you also have to acquire customers, employees, office space, software/technology, and the list goes on.
One area that you might not be looking in is the first-aid department.
After all, you need to ensure that you, your employees, and your clients are safe every time they step foot in your office building. You should always meet health standards and codes because the safety of your workers is a top priority.
One question you have to consider is this: Does OSHA require first-aid kits?
If you don’t know what OSHA stands for or represents, or you don’t know the answer to the above question, then the below information is for you.
What does OSHA stand for and what does it do?
OSHA stands for Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Here’s its mission:
“With the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, Congress created the Occupational Safety and Health Administration to ensure safe and healthful working conditions for working men and women by setting and enforcing standards and by providing training, outreach, education and assistance.”
No matter what type of business a company is running, from electrical engineering to investigative journalism, it’s important that business owners are providing their workers with a safe and healthy environment, not just because that’s what OSHA calls for, but because it’s what’s right.
Reading up on OSHA’s guidelines and taking classes is a necessary step, even if it’s not required. These guidelines and/or classes will let you know what to do if an emergency arises.
Workers, from employees to CEOs, should feel and be safe and healthy when they come to work, and companies should meet the guidelines of OSHA to ensure that these requirements are being fulfilled.
Are first-aid kits required?
So, does the OSHA require first-aid kits?
It depends on the industry/field. Some industries are required to follow certain guidelines relating to first-aid in the workplace.
As Verywell points out, specific industries that were identified by OSHA are:
1910.146 Permit-required Confined Spaces
1910.266 Appendix B: Logging Operations – First-Aid and CPR Training
1910.269 Electric Power Generation, Transmission, and Distribution
1910.410 Qualifications of Dive Team
1926.950 Construction Subpart V, Power Transmission, and Distribution
Depending on which industry you work in (especially if it’s one mentioned above), it’s essential to follow the guidelines mapped out by OSHA. And not only because OSHA says the requirements are mandatory, but because it’s ethical to ensure the health and safety of you and your workers.
You want to be prepared for every situation. A first-aid kit can help you achieve that feat.
If you operate a large company or are responsible for office supplies and equipment, then we encourage you to buy wholesale first aid supplies in hopes of saving money and purchasing enough supplies for your entire workplace. Buying from a reputable company that meets the necessary requirements can ensure you meet all standards and are prepared for any situation. And buying in bulk can save your company money.
A standard first-aid kit, in many cases, is required by OSHA. However, even if it’s not mandatory for your business, you should always have one in your office/building just in case something happens, even if it’s something as simple as an employee needing a bandage.
Safety at work is important and should be prioritized in the workplace. Always try to stay abreast of OSHA requirements in case they change.
