A workplace first aid kit is only useful if everything inside it is ready to use. That’s why UK employers are expected to check their kits regularly - not just when something goes wrong. But how often should checks be done, and what exactly should you look for?
This simple guide explains the recommended inspection frequency, what employers need to record, and why regular checks matter for workplace safety.
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Why First Aid Kit Checks Are Required
UK law (Health and Safety First-Aid Regulations 1981) expects every workplace to keep first aid equipment “adequate, appropriate and maintained.”
Regular kit checks make sure:
- First aid items haven’t expired
- Nothing is missing after previous use
- Packaging is still sealed and sterile
- The kit matches the workplace’s current risks
- Equipment is easy to find and access
A well-maintained kit means faster response times during emergencies.
How Often Should You Check Workplace First Aid Kits?
There is no fixed legal timetable, but HSE guidance recommends checks “periodically” - which most UK employers follow as:
Low-risk workplaces (offices, shops)
Every 3 months
This is normally enough because items are used less often.
Higher-risk workplaces (warehouses, workshops, factories)
Monthly checks
More incidents → more use → higher chance of missing or damaged items.
After every incident
If the kit was used, restock it immediately. Even one missing dressing can delay treatment.
Large or multi-building workplaces
Assign a checker for each area and use a simple checklist.
More information on the number of kits needed for different workplaces is available in our guide here:
https://firstaidkitsuk.co.uk/blogs/guides/how-many-first-aid-kits-workplace-uk
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What Should Be Checked During an Inspection?
A quick but thorough check should include:
1. Expiry dates
Dressings, wipes, burn gel and eye care products often expire sooner than expected.
2. Packaging
Look for tears, dampness, crushed boxes or opened seals — replace anything that might be compromised.
3. Missing items
Check if anything was used and not replaced.
4. Contents vs. workplace risk
Has the company changed?
New equipment? More staff? New hazards?
Your first aid kit should match your current risk level — not how things looked a year ago.
5. Accessibility
A kit buried in a cupboard or behind equipment won’t help anyone.
Workplaces with higher risk levels may also need a first aid room. More details are in our separate guide:
https://firstaidkitsuk.co.uk/blogs/guides/first-aid-room-requirements-uk
Who Should Check the First Aid Kit?
Employers usually appoint either:
A First Aider
Trained and familiar with workplace risks.
An Appointed Person
Responsible for basic first aid arrangements, including kit checks.
Only one person needs to be responsible, but having a backup checker is good practice.
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Should You Keep a First Aid Kit Log?
Yes - a simple log helps prove checks were done consistently.
Your record can include:
- Date of the check
- Name of the person who checked
- Items replaced
- Notes on damage or missing items
- Any changes to workplace risks
A small sheet kept inside the kit works perfectly.
There’s no complicated law on how often workplace first aid kits must be checked — but regular inspections are essential for safety. Most low-risk businesses check every few months, while higher-risk workplaces do monthly checks or more.
A few minutes of maintenance keeps staff safer and ensures your workplace is always prepared for minor injuries and unexpected emergencies.
If you want to explore suitable workplace first aid kits, you can view our full collection here:
https://firstaidkitsuk.co.uk/collections/first-aid-kits
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