Which First Aid Kit Do You Actually Need?

By  Carole Johnson – OneLife Training (Gold Member)

When it comes to first aid, having the right kit in the right place can make all the difference. Whether you’re dealing with a scraped knee, a burn in the kitchen, or something more serious, the right tools at your fingertips mean you can respond quickly, confidently, and potentially save a life.

But with so many types of first aid kits available – from pocket-sized kits for your car to comprehensive workplace setups – how do you know which one is right for you?

In a clear and concise explainer video, DWIB member Carole, from Onelife Training, shares practical, no-nonsense advice on choosing the right first aid kit for your environment. Whether you need a kit for your home, office, childcare setting, or even the boot of your car, Carole walks you through the key considerations so you can make an informed decision.

Why It’s So Important to Choose the Right First Aid Kit

There’s a common misconception that any old first aid kit will do. But first aid kits are not one-size-fits-all. A kit suitable for a family home might be woefully inadequate for a construction site or catering business.

Choosing the correct kit ensures you’re:

• Prepared for the specific types of injuries likely to occur in your environment.

• Compliant with health and safety regulations (particularly important for businesses).

• Confident in your ability to support others in an emergency.

For business owners and managers, having the wrong kit – or an outdated one – could result in serious consequences, in terms of the health and safety of your team members and customers.

What to Consider When Choosing a First Aid Kit

Carole’s video highlights four key questions to ask when selecting the right first aid kit:

1. Who is the Kit For?

Consider who you’re responsible for:

• Employees

• Customers

• The general public

Different groups may require different items.

2. Where Will It Be Stored and Used?

Location is everything.

• Will it live in an office drawer, be mounted on a workshop wall, or kept in a vehicle?

• Is it going to be used indoors or outdoors?

• Will it need to be waterproof or dust-resistant?

Kits for vehicles or outdoor events should be portable, durable and easy to access, while workplace kits may be larger and wall-mounted.

3. What is the Risk Level?

• A quiet, low-risk office setting won’t need the same equipment as a high-risk environment like a kitchen, garage or warehouse.

• Think about what’s most likely to happen – is there risk of burns, cuts, heavy lifting injuries, or slips and falls?

High-risk environments may need extra supplies like burns dressings, eye wash, or trauma dressings.

4. How Many People Are You Supporting?

Make sure your kit can support the number of people on-site.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) in the UK provides guidelines on this for businesses.

🩺 Onelife’s Top Tip:

Check your first aid kit regularly. Replace anything that’s been used or has expired. A dusty, half-empty kit won’t be much use in a crisis.

Need Support Choosing the Right First Aid Kit?

That’s where Onelife Training comes in. Based in the South West, they offer:

• Personalised advice on the right first aid kit for your business, home or organisation

• Fully regulated first aid training courses, including workplace-specific training

• Hands-on, friendly support to help you feel confident and prepared

Whether you’re a small business owner, a childminder, a community group leader or just someone who wants peace of mind at home, Onelife Training is here to help you get first aid ready.

Watch the Video and Get Clarity

🎥 Watch Carole’s short video for simple, expert advice on choosing the right kit for your needs:
👉 https://onelife-training.co.uk/which-first-aid-kit-do-you-actually-need/

Final Word

Having a first aid kit isn’t just about ticking a box; it’s about being ready to step up when someone needs you. With the right knowledge and equipment, you can be that calm, capable person in the room when it matters most.

Don’t leave it to chance. Get the right first aid kit in place today. And if you’re unsure where to start? Just ask Carole and the team at Onelife Training. They’ve got you covered.