Keep a basic construction first aid kit on the jobsite

A basic construction first aid kit can provide emergency care until medical treatment is available, and in the case of minor injuries, first aid can help prevent complications and get construction workers back on the job sooner.

But proper first aid requires a well-stocked construction first aid kit.

While specific types of work will require additional first-aid supplies, the basic construction first aid kit shown here is a great place to start, and it will prepare you to deal with a wide range of accidents and injuries.

Basic construction first aid kit should include:

1. Absorbent Compress* — Use a compress to apply pressure and stop the bleeding of major wounds.

2. Adhesive Bandages* — Apply bandages to minor cuts and abrasions so the pad covers but does not stick to the wound. The bandage prevents dirt from entering the wound.

3. Adhesive Tape* — Use adhesive tape to hold gauze in place when covering a cut or to hold lacerations together until the victim can get stitches. Adhesive tape can also hold a splint for a broken arm in place.

4. Antiseptic* — Antiseptic towelettes, swabs or wipes help prevent skin infections, and temporarily relieve the pain and itching associated with minor cuts, scrapes and burns.

5. Burn Treatment* — Individual-use applications of burn treatment should be used to treat mild burns with reddened skin and no blisters. They will reduce the pain. Burn dressings are gel-soaked pads made of material that keep fibers from imbedding in the burn.

6. Medical Gloves* — Medical grade gloves should be worn as a protective barrier whenever there is a possibility of coming in contact with blood or other potentially infectious materials (body fluids and tissues). Include exam gloves in several sizes.

7. Sterile Pads* — Dress minor cuts, scrapes, scratches and burns with sterile pads. The porous fibers trap blood and help clotting.

8. Triangular Bandage* — A triangular bandage is made from muslin and when unfolded, should measure at least 40 by 40 by 56 inches. It can be used as a sling for broken arms or collarbones, or dislocated shoulders. It can also be used as a tourniquet to stop severe bleeding.

9. Antibiotic Treatment** — Antibiotic treatment helps prevent infection in minor cuts, scrapes and burns.

10. CPR Breathing Barrier** — A CPR breathing barrier offers protection to both rescuer and victim when CPR is administered.

11. Cold Pack** — Cooling is the best treatment for swelling caused by fluid and internal bleeding.

12. Disposable Bag** — A disposable bag should be used to dispose of used medical exam gloves and supplies.

13. Eye Coverings** — Eye coverings prevent eye movement following an eye injury and provide a soothing effect.

14. Eye Wash** — If a chemical splash enters the eye, flush it immediately using a sterile, isotonic buffered solution. (OSHA requires quick drenching or flushing of the eyes and body be provided in the work area for immediate emergency care if a person’s eyes or body may be exposed to injurious corrosive materials.)

15. Roller Bandage** — Roller bandages are used to secure bandages or support injured limbs

16. Blanket — Reduce the danger of shock by keeping the patient warm, dry and clean with a blanket.

17. Elastic Bandage — Use an elastic bandage to treat muscle sprains and strains.

18. Hand Wash — When soap and water aren’t available, hand wash can help prevent infection.

19. Scissors — Bandage scissors have a specially designed edge that allows them to be used next to the skin without cutting the victim.

20. Tweezers — Use tweezers to remove splinters or debris from cuts.

21. Analgesic**  — Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be administered orally to reduce pain.

*Items required for a workplace first aid kit as described by American National Standards Institute Z308.1-2003.
**Recommended for a workplace first aid kit by ANSI/ISEA Z308.1-2003

Common injuries that require basic first aid

• Cuts from sharp objects such as sheet metal, razors, knives and power tools
• Being struck by objects such as pipe, boards and beams
• Falls from ladders or tripping and stumbling
• Concrete, cement, or chemical dust in the eye