Workplace Medical Requirements: Essential First Aid for Facilities Management

Keeping people safe is a top priority in any workplace—and for facilities managers, ensuring that every site is medically prepared is part of daily responsibility. Having the right workplace medical supplies not only supports compliance with UK health and safety laws but also builds confidence among staff, contractors, and visitors.

Why Workplace Medical Preparedness Matters

Under the Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981, employers must provide “adequate and appropriate” first-aid equipment, facilities, and trained staff. Whether managing offices, warehouses, retail spaces, or industrial sites, facilities managers need to ensure their workplaces are ready to respond to any medical emergency—from a minor injury to a life-threatening incident.

Being equipped with the correct medical equipment for the workplace helps reduce response times, limits the severity of injuries, and ensures compliance with safety standards.

Key Medical Requirements for the Workplace

1. First Aid Kits
   Every workplace must have accessible, well-stocked first aid kits. Contents should suit the level of risk and number of employees on site. Typical items include plasters, sterile dressings, bandages, antiseptic wipes, gloves, and eye pads. Higher-risk environments may also require trauma dressings, burn kits, or eye wash stations.
2. Defibrillators (AEDs)
   Having a defibrillator in the workplace can save lives. Sudden cardiac arrest can happen anywhere, and immediate use of an AED significantly increases survival rates. DS Medical supplies a wide range of user-friendly AEDs and accessories designed for fast, effective response in all settings.
3. First Aid Rooms or Stations
   For larger or higher-risk sites, a dedicated first aid room is strongly recommended. This should include a couch or bed, sink, first aid supplies, and easy access for emergency services if needed.
4. Specialist Medical Equipment
   Certain workplaces—such as those with confined spaces, machinery, or hazardous materials—require specialist medical equipment. This can include oxygen resuscitation kits, burn treatment packs, and chemical eye wash units.
5. Trained Personnel
   Even the best equipment is only as effective as the people using it. Facilities managers should ensure that first aiders are properly trained and that certifications are kept up to date.

Maintaining Compliance and Readiness

Regular checks are essential. All workplace medical supplies should be monitored for expiry dates, completeness, and cleanliness. Defibrillators, oxygen kits, and other equipment must be serviced according to manufacturer guidelines. Risk assessments should also be reviewed when work processes or staffing levels change.

Partner with DS Medical

At DS Medical, we provide a comprehensive range of first aid kits, defibrillators, oxygen resuscitation equipment, and medical consumables for workplaces. Our products help facilities management teams stay compliant, prepared, and confident in their emergency response.

Explore our full range at https://dsmedical.co.uk/first-aid/ or contact our team today for expert advice on the right medical equipment for your workplace.