What Does UK Law Require for First Aid?
Under the Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981, employers must:
- Provide “adequate and appropriate” first aid equipment and facilities
- Assess their first aid needs based on risks and number of staff
- Appoint trained first aiders or emergency aiders if needed
- Inform staff of first aid arrangements
There is no legal list of required kit contents - but the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) strongly recommends using kits compliant with BS 8599-1 for workplaces.
What Is a BS 8599-1 Compliant First Aid Kit?
BS 8599-1 is the British Standard for workplace first aid kits. It was developed to ensure consistency and quality across UK businesses and is backed by both the HSE and British Standards Institution (BSI).
Compliant kits include:
- Sterile dressings, bandages, and plasters
- Gloves, wipes, and safety pins
- Trauma dressings and eye pads
- First aid guidance leaflet
- CE-marked contents
They come in small, medium, or large sizes depending on the number of employees and the level of risk in your workplace.
Does Your Business Need a BS 8599-1 Kit?
While not legally required by name, using BS 8599-1 kits is considered best practice — and often expected during inspections or insurance assessments.
Common businesses that require compliant kits include:
- Offices & shops
- Construction & engineering sites
- Schools, childcare & hospitality
- Warehouses & transport companies
If you employ staff or host customers, you likely need a kit that meets this standard.
How to Stay Compliant
To meet UK workplace first aid obligations, you should:
- Assess your risks (machinery, location, size of team)
- Choose the right BS 8599-1 kit size (small, medium, large)
- Maintain and restock kits regularly
- Train designated first aiders
- Clearly signpost where kits are kept
Compliant Kits for Every Workplace
All our workplace kits are:
- CE/UKCA marked
- Suitable for small to high-risk workplaces
- Available in durable wall-mounted or portable cases
- In stock with fast UK delivery
👉 Browse Our First Aid Kits
Need Help Choosing the Right Kit?
Our UK-based team can guide you through your legal duties and help you select the correct kit for your business type.
📧 Email: support@firstaidkitsuk.co.uk
📞 Contact us: Get in Touch
