What Do I Need in a First Aid Kit?

Why Every New Zealander Needs a Well-Stocked First Aid Kit?

Emergencies can happen anytime, anywhere—whether at home, in the workplace, or out exploring New Zealand’s great outdoors. From minor cuts and burns to more serious injuries caused by accidents, having a well-stocked first aid kit can make a crucial difference in providing immediate care while waiting for professional medical help.

Essential First Aid Kit Items

According to WorkSafe New Zealand and the Ministry of Education, a first aid kit should contain items suitable for each place, this means the specific contents should reflect the particular risks associated with your environment, whether at home, work, or an Early Childhood Education (ECE) centre. A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for providing immediate care, potentially preventing minor injuries from becoming major complications. For example, in any workplace, a first aid kit should contain items to address common injuries such as cuts, sprains, burns, and eye injuries. The number of first aid kits and trained personnel should be proportionate to the size of the workforce and the nature of the work.

Overview of Different First Aid Kits

• Workplace Kits: Tailored to the specific hazards of the work environment, with contents determined by a risk assessment and multiple kits required for larger sites.
• ECE Kits: Includes child-specific items and emergency contacts for quick response. 
• Home Kits: Designed for general household injuries and adjusted based on NZ household risks (children, elderly, pets), including items for cuts, burns, and sprains.​ 
• Travel Kits: Compact and portable, suitable for addressing minor injuries and ailments while on the move.

Workplace First Aid Requirements: Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015, New Zealand workplaces must provide adequate first aid resources. This includes:

• Accessible first aid kits suited to workplace risks
• Sufficient trained first aiders on-site
• Clear signage indicating the location of first aid supplies
• Regular training to ensure employees know how to respond to emergencies

For more info on first aid kits for workplaces check First Aid at Work – Point 4.

Consider whether your workplace needs other first aid equipment like Automated external defibrillators (AED), emergency eyewash and/or shower equipment, and first aid rooms.

ECE centres must follow the Ministry of Education’s licensing criteria for first aid readiness, ensuring all children and staff have access to appropriate care in emergencies. See more info on ECEs’ kits here.

Maintaining & Storing Your First Aid Kit

A first aid kit is only useful if its contents are in good condition and easily accessible. Make sure the following guidelines are met:

• Store kits in an easily accessible, clearly labeled location
• Regularly check expiration dates and replace used or expired items
• Ensure all employees or household members know where the kit is located
• Conduct periodic reviews to ensure the kit meets the relevant standards and is appropriate for your specific needs.

Where to Buy a Quality First Aid Kit in NZ?

First aid kits can be purchased from pharmacies, outdoor stores, safety equipment suppliers, and online retailers. 

Why First Aid Training Is Just as Important as the Kit?

Owning a first aid kit is essential, but knowing how to use it effectively can make all the difference. Proper training equips individuals with the confidence and skills to respond in an emergency.

We invite you to join our first aid courses to learn and practice the proper use of first aid kit items, ensuring you are prepared for any situation. Check all our public courses here and book your team today!

For any queries about our training courses, contact us here.