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First aid containers locked - any views on this?
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#1 Posted : 08 May 2009 15:18:00(UTC)
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Posted By Brian S
Hi all - Friday, I know, but I would like to know peoples views on this.

A company (anonymous) locks up first aid containers to stop items getting stolen - but for me, this stops immediate access to first aid items in an emergency.

Any comments appreciated...
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#2 Posted : 08 May 2009 15:22:00(UTC)
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Posted By Neil R
Well only a trained first aider or an appointed person should have access to and be using equipment from the first aid box. So you could say that keeping it locked is ok.

I would be looking at whether a first aider is on site at all times during the working day and the key for the box is stored securely on the premises.

First aider on site at all times.

Key readily available in secure location (first aider doesn't take it home!)

no problem.
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#3 Posted : 08 May 2009 15:36:00(UTC)
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Posted By Renny Thomson
Neil,

just hope the First Aider isn't the injured person, or that they never go off for lunch, go to the toilet, disappear to meetings or work in a remote part of the site..
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#4 Posted : 08 May 2009 15:42:00(UTC)
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Posted By Neil R
Well all those things should be considered in the first aid risk assessment really.

Also the key principle is competence, the only people who should be giving first aid are trained first aiders nobody else. If a situation arises where there is no first aider when required then the locked first aid box is the least of your worries.
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#5 Posted : 08 May 2009 15:48:00(UTC)
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Posted By Adam Worth
There are a number of factors to consider - it all comes back to good old risk assessment.

Type of equipment - Defibs / med gases / needle kits and maybe other drugs maybe used? These may be subject to theft more often.

Historic injuries / high risk areas offering specific medical concerns.

Area in question - An area offering a high risk of theft may require additional security. An empty first aid box is of no use to anyone!

Access to key - as said above - however can the key be secured next to equipment in an alarmed box?
Does more than one person have access.

etc etc etc

It's not as straight forward as you might think. I would also add in 99% of first aid scenarios I don't need any kit!
Personal kit comprising of gloves and face mask OK until someone can get me more stuff.
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