This guide provides Alberta employers with a practical understanding of first aid requirements under the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Act. We’ll cover everything from hazard assessment to record keeping, equipping you to create a safe and compliant workplace.
Assessing Workplace Hazards
Before implementing first aid measures, you must understand your workplace’s potential hazards. This hazard assessment forms the foundation of your first aid plan. It involves identifying potential injuries or illnesses that could occur, informing decisions about kit contents and the number of trained first aiders.
Understanding Hazard Levels
The OHS Act categorizes workplaces into three hazard levels:
- Low Hazard: Environments like offices, where risks are minimal (e.g., slips, trips, minor cuts).
- Medium Hazard: Environments like manufacturing or retail, with broader potential hazards (e.g., chemical exposure, burns, strains).
- High Hazard: Industries like construction or forestry, with inherently high risks (e.g., heavy equipment, heights, hazardous materials).
Accurately categorizing your workplace is crucial for meeting OHS Act requirements.
Matching First Aid Provisions to Hazard Level
The OHS Act’s first aid requirements consider both your hazard level and the number of employees. More employees, even in lower-hazard settings, might necessitate more extensive provisions.
| Hazard Level | Number of Employees | Required First Aid Personnel/Training | First Aid Kit Type | Other Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Low | 1-5 | 1 Emergency First Aider | Type A | |
| Low | 6-20 | 1 Standard First Aider | Type B | |
| Medium | 1-5 | 1 Standard First Aider | Type B | |
| Medium | 6-20 | 2 Standard First Aiders | Type B | First aid room may be necessary |
| High | 1-5 | 1 Advanced First Aider | Type C | Designated first aid room required |
| High | 6-20 | 2 Advanced First Aiders | Type C | Designated first aid room with specific equipment required |
This table is a general guide. Consult the official Alberta OHS Act and regulations for the most up-to-date information. Regulations can change, and staying current is vital.
First Aid Kits and Supplies
A well-stocked first aid kit is essential. While OSHA doesn’t provide a specific checklist, it emphasizes adequacy—ensuring your kit addresses your workplace’s unique hazards. The ANSI/ISEA Z308.1-2022 standard offers guidance on kit contents and classifications.
Guidelines for Stocking Your Kit
The CSA Standard Z1220-17 details the contents for various kit types. Regular checks and restocking are vital.
| Hazard Level | Number of Employees | Recommended Kit Class (ANSI/ISEA Z308.1-2022) |
|---|---|---|
| Low | 1-25 | Class A |
| Low | 26+ | Class A or B |
| Medium | Any | Class B |
| High | Any | Class B or higher |
Consult the ANSI/ISEA Z308.1-2022 standard for detailed contents of each class. Industry-specific OSHA requirements may also apply.
Checklist for a Type A First Aid Kit (Example)
- Adhesive bandages (assorted sizes)
- Antiseptic wipes
- Gauze pads (assorted sizes)
- Medical tape
- Scissors
- Tweezers
- Gloves (non-latex)
- CPR face shield
First Aid Training and Certifications
A stocked kit is useless without trained personnel. While OSHA’s general guidelines don’t mandate specific certifications for all, certain industries or state regulations might. Ensure training is from OSHA-recognized providers (e.g., American Red Cross, National Safety Council).
Training Recommendations
| Hazard Level | Number of Employees | Recommended First Aid Personnel/Training |
|---|---|---|
| Low | 1-5 | At least one employee with basic first aid training |
| Low | 6-10 | At least one employee with emergency first aid training |
| Medium | Any | At least one employee with standard first aid training |
| High | Any | At least one employee with advanced first aid training |
Some research suggests that even low-hazard environments benefit from multiple trained individuals.
First Aid Room Setup and Location
OSHA prioritizes accessibility to first aid supplies over a dedicated room. However, a dedicated space offers advantages.
Ideal First Aid Room Features
- Running Water: For cleaning wounds.
- Communication: Phone or intercom for summoning help.
- Resting Area: Chair or cot for comfort.
- Privacy: Screen or curtain.
Record Keeping
Maintaining records of injuries, treatments, and training is essential for compliance and identifying safety trends.
Work Site Location Considerations
Proximity to emergency services influences your requirements. Remote locations might necessitate more advanced on-site first aid provisions and training, potentially including wilderness first aid.
Staying Informed
OHS Act requirements can change. Stay updated through official sources and reliable resources.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: Does OSHA have a required first aid kit checklist?
- A: No, but they stress adequacy—the kit must address your specific workplace hazards. Use ANSI/ISEA Z308.1-2022 as a guide.
Resources and Further Information
- Alberta OHS Act
- CSA Group Z1220-17 – First Aid Kits
- ANSI/ISEA Z308.1-2022 – American National Standard – First aid kits – Workplace, educational, and public access
This guide is for informational purposes only and not legal advice. Always consult the official Alberta OHS Act and regulations for the most current information.
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