Ensuring workplace safety is a top priority for Australian businesses, and a key component of this is having the right number of first aid kits to meet regulatory requirements. Whether you run a small cafe, a bustling office, or a high-risk construction site, Safe Work Australia mandates that workplaces have accessible first aid kits to manage emergencies. But how many kits do you need, and are they subject to GST? Understanding these requirements is crucial for compliance and cost management, especially for small businesses watching their budgets. This regulatory-focused guide outlines the number of first aid kits required based on workplace size and risk level, clarifies the GST status of first aid kits, and provides practical tips to stay compliant. At First Aid Distributions, we offer a range of compliant kits tailored for Australian workplaces—explore our first aid kits to ensure your business is prepared.

Understanding Workplace First Aid Kit Requirements in Australia

Safe Work Australia Guidelines

Safe Work Australia sets the standard for workplace safety, requiring all businesses to provide adequate first aid resources under the Work Health and Safety (WHS) Regulations. The number of first aid kits needed depends on the workplace’s size, number of employees, and risk level. For example, low-risk environments like offices typically require fewer kits, while high-risk settings such as construction sites or factories need more due to the increased likelihood of injuries like cuts, burns, or fractures. Our blog on why businesses need defibrillators highlights the importance of comprehensive safety measures, including first aid kits, in high-risk workplaces.

Factors Determining Kit Quantity

• Employee Numbers: As a general rule, Safe Work Australia recommends at least one kit for every 25 workers in low-risk workplaces and one for every 10 workers in high-risk workplaces.
• Workplace Size and Layout: Larger or multi-level workplaces may need multiple kits to ensure accessibility, especially if areas are separated by walls or floors.
• Risk Level: High-risk industries (e.g., manufacturing, construction) require more kits due to the potential for severe injuries, while low-risk offices may need fewer.
• Shift Patterns: If your business operates multiple shifts, ensure kits are available for all workers, including night shifts.

For example, a small office with 20 employees might need one kit, while a construction site with 50 workers could require five or more, strategically placed across the site.

Are First Aid Kits GST Free in Australia?

GST Status of First Aid Kits

In Australia, most goods and services are subject to a 10% Goods and Services Tax (GST), and first aid kits are no exception. According to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO), first aid kits are generally considered taxable supplies, meaning GST is applied to their purchase. This applies to Workplace First Aid Kits, Small Business First Aid Kits, and other kits sold by First Aid Distributions. However, businesses registered for GST can claim an input tax credit for the GST paid on these kits, effectively offsetting the cost if the kits are used for business purposes. Always consult a tax professional to confirm eligibility for GST credits, as this can help cost-conscious businesses manage expenses.

Budgeting for Compliance

While first aid kits are not GST-free, their cost is a small price to pay for compliance and safety. First Aid Distributions offers competitively priced kits, with free delivery on orders over $200, making it easier for businesses to meet Safe Work Australia requirements without breaking the bank. Our Small Business First Aid Kits are tailored for cost-conscious owners, providing compliant solutions for offices, tradies, and construction sites. By budgeting for regular kit maintenance and GST-inclusive purchases, you ensure long-term compliance and safety.

Choosing the Right Number of First Aid Kits for Your Workplace

Low-Risk Workplaces (Offices, Retail)

For low-risk workplaces like offices or retail shops with fewer than 25 employees, one well-stocked first aid kit is often sufficient, provided it’s easily accessible. The kit should include essentials like adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, and burn dressings, as outlined in our blog on how to keep your first aid kit well-stocked and organised. Place the kit in a central location, such as a break room, and ensure all staff know its location.

High-Risk Workplaces (Construction, Factories)

High-risk workplaces, such as construction sites or factories, require more kits due to the increased potential for severe injuries. Safe Work Australia suggests one kit per 10 workers, with additional kits for larger or multi-area sites. For example, a factory with 50 employees might need five kits, placed near high-risk areas like machinery or loading zones. Kits like those in our Small Business First Aid Kits collection include trauma dressings and tourniquets, ideal for managing serious injuries in these environments.

Customisation for Specific Needs

Every workplace is unique, and customisation ensures compliance with your specific risks. For instance, a multi-story office might need a kit on each floor, while a remote construction site could require portable kits for mobile workers. First Aid Distributions offers customisation options—contact our team to tailor your first aid kits with extra supplies like eye wash or burn gels, ensuring you meet Safe Work Australia standards while staying within budget.

Implementing and Maintaining Your Workplace First Aid Kits

Strategic Placement and Accessibility

• Visible Locations: Place kits in high-traffic or high-risk areas, such as near entrances, kitchens, or machinery, with clear signage.
• Multiple Kits: Ensure enough kits to cover all work areas, shifts, and floors, avoiding delays in emergencies.
• Accessible Design: Choose kits with durable, portable cases, like those in our Small Business First Aid Kits, for easy access.
• Staff Awareness: Train employees on kit locations and contents, reinforcing compliance with Safe Work Australia guidelines.

Maintenance for Ongoing Compliance

• Regular Inspections: Check kits every six months—or monthly in high-risk settings—to ensure items are in date and stocked, as per our maintenance tips in the blog on how to keep your first aid kit well-stocked and organised.
• Refill Strategically: Replace used or expired items with our affordable refills, keeping costs low while maintaining compliance.
• Record Keeping: Log inspections and restocks to demonstrate compliance during WHS audits.
• Training: Ensure appointed first aiders are trained to use kit contents, enhancing workplace safety.

Building a Compliance-Focused Workplace Culture

Understanding Regulatory Obligations

Educate yourself and your team on Safe Work Australia’s first aid requirements, including kit quantities and maintenance. Compliance protects employees and avoids penalties, a critical consideration for small businesses. Our blog on why businesses need defibrillators emphasizes the broader importance of emergency preparedness, including first aid kits and AEDs.

Engaging Staff in Safety

Foster a safety-conscious culture by involving staff in first aid planning. Conduct regular safety briefings, share kit locations, and train first aiders. This aligns with Australia’s community-focused approach to workplace safety, ensuring everyone is prepared to respond to emergencies, from minor cuts to major incidents.

Conclusion

Ensuring the right number of first aid kits in your Australian workplace is a critical step toward compliance with Safe Work Australia guidelines, protecting your staff and business. While first aid kits are subject to GST, businesses can claim input tax credits, making compliance cost-effective. From one kit for a small office to multiple kits for a high-risk construction site, First Aid Distributions offers tailored solutions. Assembled in Bendigo, Victoria, our Small Business First Aid Kits meet Australian Standards, ensuring reliability. Don’t risk non-compliance—visit first aid essentials to equip your workplace today. Subscribe to our newsletter for more safety tips and updates.

FAQ

Q1: How many first aid kits does a small office need?

A: For low-risk workplaces with fewer than 25 employees, one kit is typically sufficient, placed in a central, accessible location.

Q2: Are first aid kits GST-free in Australia?

A: No, first aid kits are subject to 10% GST, but businesses registered for GST can claim an input tax credit—consult a tax professional for details.

Q3: How often should I check my workplace first aid kits?

A: Inspect every six months, or monthly in high-risk settings, to ensure items are in date and stocked, maintaining compliance.

Q4: Do high-risk workplaces need more first aid kits?

A: Yes, Safe Work Australia recommends one kit per 10 workers in high-risk settings like construction, with additional kits for multi-area sites.

Q5: Where should I place first aid kits in my workplace?

A: Store in visible, accessible spots like break rooms or near machinery, with clear signage to ensure quick access during emergencies.