Every UK workplace must provide adequate first aid provision. One of the most common questions employers ask is: how many first aid kits are required?
The answer depends on two main factors — the number of employees and the level of risk in the workplace. This guide explains the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) expectations, the British Standard BS 8599-1, and how you can ensure your business stays compliant.
UK law (Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981) requires employers to make sure employees receive immediate attention if they are injured or fall ill at work. The regulations don’t set out an exact number of kits but require a risk assessment to decide what is “adequate and appropriate.”
The BS 8599-1:2019 standard provides clear guidance on recommended kit sizes and quantities. While not a legal requirement, it is widely recognised as best practice and often used to demonstrate compliance.
👉 For a full overview of your legal duties, see our UK First Aid Laws & Workplace Kit Compliance guide.
It’s not just the number that matters — location is equally important.
Employers must also make sure their kits remain in date. Find out more in our guide on do first aid kits expire. Not sure which kit size to choose? Check our First Aid Kit Sizes Explained guide.
| Workplace Type | Employees | Recommended Kit(s) |
|---|---|---|
| Low risk Office / Retail | 1–25 | 1 Small kit |
| Low risk Office / Retail | 25–100 | 1 Medium kit |
| Low risk Office / Retail | 100+ | 1 Large kit per 100 employees |
| Higher risk Construction / Factory | 1–5 | 1 Small kit |
| Higher risk Construction / Factory | 5–25 | 1 Medium kit |
| Higher risk Construction / Factory | 25+ | 1 Large kit per 25 employees |
Knowing the right number of kits is only half the picture. Employers must also ensure each kit contains the correct supplies.
👉 See our complete UK first aid kit contents guide for a full checklist.
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