What changes are coming for first aid kits?
What are the changes to the ANSI standard for all workplace first aid kits? Here are the four W's.
Who? ANSI (American National Standards Institute) sets the standard for the minimum requirements for all workplace first aid kits and supplies.
What? ANSI has added major changes for all first aid kits:
More specificity for tourniquets ANSI now distinguishes tourniquets from those types of bands used to draw blood, which are not as effective in preventing blood loss.
A foil blanket is now mandatory. This was considered based on an assessment of similar international standards and in recognition of the multiple purposes that the item can serve, such as treating hypothermia, acting as a windbreaker, or worn as an emergency waterproof wrap.
Greater guidance on bleeding control kits. The standard provides additional details on designated bleeding control kits, which contain more advanced first aid supplies to immediately treat life-threatening external bleeding.