First Aid Box Inspection Checklist | Free Template
A well-maintained first aid box can make the difference between a minor injury and a major medical emergency. However, first aid kits are often neglected—items expire, supplies run out, or boxes become inaccessible during emergencies. To stay compliant and protect your workforce, regular inspections are essential.
This article provides a ready-to-use First Aid Box Inspection Checklist along with a free downloadable PDF template you can apply in any workplace.
📥 Download the free template:
Why Inspect First Aid Boxes?
- Readiness: Ensures supplies are present, in-date, and usable.
- Compliance: Meets legal obligations under OSHA, HSE, or local regulations.
- Preparedness: Avoids panic during emergencies by keeping kits accessible and stocked.
- Accountability: Creates inspection records for audits and supervisor sign-off.
Key Sections of the Checklist
The template covers 19 inspection items, grouped into categories:
1. General Condition
- Box is clean, dry, intact, and labeled.
- Located in a visible and accessible area.
2. Documentation
- Inspection tag/card attached and updated.
- List of approved contents available inside the box.
3. Supplies & Stock
- Sterile gauze pads, adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes/solution.
- Burn ointment, hydrogel dressing, triangular and roller bandages.
- Scissors, tweezers, safety pins, disposable gloves, and face masks.
- Pain relievers and antihistamines (generic, permitted by company policy).
- Thermometer and CPR barrier device.
- Emergency contact numbers and a first aid manual.
4. Expiry Management
- All medical items within expiry dates.
- Expired or damaged items replaced immediately.
5. Accessibility
- Box unobstructed and easy to open.
- Workers aware of its location and trained in use.
Checklist Table
| Category | Inspection Item | Yes | No | N/A | Notes / Corrective Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Condition | Box clean, intact, labeled | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ | |
| Documentation | Inspection tag attached & updated | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ | |
| Supplies | Gauze pads, adhesive bandages available | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ | |
| Supplies | Gloves, masks, CPR face shield present | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ | |
| Expiry Management | All medicines in-date | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ | |
| Accessibility | Box accessible; workers trained | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ |
👉 Download the full PDF template here:
How to Use the Checklist
- Assign a responsible person to inspect boxes weekly/monthly.
- Tick Yes/No/N/A for each item.
- Record hazards in the Corrective Actions Log.
- Supervisor signs off inspections for accountability.
- Keep signed checklists for audits and compliance.
Best Practices for First Aid Readiness
- Multiple kits: Place first aid boxes at accessible points across large facilities.
- Visible signage: Mark locations with green/white first aid symbols.
- Emergency training: Ensure workers know basic first aid and kit locations.
- Restocking system: Assign a safety officer to replace expired or used items.
- Special risks: Stock extra items for unique hazards (burn dressings, eye wash).
Common Pitfalls
- Keeping expired items in the box.
- Locking the box or placing it in a restricted area.
- Failing to restock after incidents.
- Missing essential equipment (CPR barrier, gloves).
- No updated inspection record for audits.
Conclusion
First aid kits are a frontline defense against injuries, but only if maintained properly. A structured First Aid Box Inspection Checklist ensures that supplies are available, accessible, and effective when needed most.
Download the free PDF, integrate it into your safety program, and keep your workplace prepared for emergencies.
You can download more checklist from The HSE Tools.
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Exam-Oriented Practice Questions
Short Answer
- Why should first aid boxes be inspected regularly?
👉 To ensure supplies are present, usable, and within expiry dates. - Name three critical supplies that must always be stocked.
👉 Gauze pads, gloves, CPR face shield. - What should be done with expired medical items?
👉 They must be removed and replaced immediately.
Long Answer
- Discuss the importance of accessibility when positioning first aid boxes.
- Explain how expired or missing supplies can impact emergency response.
- Describe how documentation supports compliance and audits.
Scenario
During an inspection, you find expired antiseptic wipes and no CPR barrier device in the box. What actions should you take?
👉 Remove expired items, restock immediately, log the issue in the corrective action table, notify supervisor, and ensure closure of the corrective action.
