1) Contents of first aid kits should be re-stocked as soon as possible after use. Sufficient supplies should be held in back-up stock on site.

 

 

2) Many of the items in a first aid kit do have expiration dates, typically 3-5 years from the date of manufacture. All of the first aid kits that we sell display an expiration date on the components that do expire. It is important that you maintain a regular review of your kits and replace components as needed. Care should be taken to discard items safely after the expiry date has passed.

 

3) Check your first aid kits regularly, at least every three months, to be sure the flashlight batteries work and to replace supplies that have expired.

 

4) "A great way to remember to rotate your first aid kit stock is to add that to the list of things you do on the day you set your clock forward or back for Daylight Savings Time. Just like changing the batteries in your smoke detectors, changing out expired supplies in your first aid kit can help keep your family safe." (Armstrong, 2012)

 

5) "Some first aid supplies don't expire so much as they just dry out or degrade. Things like cotton gauze may last for years without needing to be replaced. Other items, like adhesive bandages or medical tape, may need to be replaced more frequently because the glue and latex can break down over time. A visual check of these supplies can confirm that the packaging is still secure and the contents uncontaminated. Replace if the products seem old or weathered". (Armstrong, 2012)

 

6) "If you pick up a roll of tape and the surface without adhesive is slimy, sticky or leaves a residue on your fingers, replace it. If you do not find any of these issues, inspect it for cleanliness, yellowing, damage and check whether the adhesive is still viable." (Blue Ocean Divers, 2011).

 

7) "Abdominal pads, etc. come in opaque packages. Inspect the package for signs of faded printing, water spots, yellowing or damage. Generally the packaging has adhesive around the outside edge to seal it closed with one corner or edge that is not completely sealed to facilitate opening. If the seal is open or compromised, do not consider the contents sterile" (McCafferty, 2014).

 

8) Inspect scissors or shears for any signs of rust, corrosion or other defects. If you lubricate them, use any lubricant sparingly. Surface rust can be cleaned. Residue from adhesive tape should be cleaned with an appropriate solvent. Remember scissors or shears lose their value if they are dull. To confirm sharpness and strength, cut a piece of tape and/or a gauze pad that is folded to double its thickness. See more at: http://www.alertdiver.com/First_Aid_Kit_Inspection