OSHA's expectations for workplace first aid trip up a lot of safety managers because the requirements are scattered across several standards. Here's what the headline rules say, plus the kit and training items most often missed during audits.

Industries that must have first-aid and CPR-trained personnel

OSHA mandates first-aid and CPR preparation in these specific sectors:

  • 1910.146 — Permit-required Confined Spaces
  • 1910.266 Appendix B — Logging Operations
  • 1910.269 — Electric Power Generation, Transmission, and Distribution
  • 1910.410 — Qualifications of Dive Team
  • 1926.950 — Construction Subpart V, Power Transmission and Distribution

If your operation falls under any of these, trained first-aid responders are not optional.

OSHA Standard 1910.151 — the general industry requirement

The regulation states: "The employer shall ensure the ready availability of medical personnel for advice and consultation on matters of plant health."

When no infirmary or nearby hospital exists, "a person or persons shall be adequately trained to render first aid."

OSHA defines near proximity as:

  • 4–6 minutes for high-risk injury environments
  • Up to 15 minutes for lower-risk settings

If your nearest ER is past either threshold for your risk level, you need trained responders on site.

First-aid kit minimum requirements (ANSI Z308.1-2003)

Basic kits must include:

  • 1 absorbent compress (32 sq. in. minimum)
  • 16 adhesive bandages (1" × 3")
  • 1 roll adhesive tape (5 yards)
  • 10 antiseptic packets
  • 6 burn treatment applications
  • 2 pairs medical exam gloves
  • 4 sterile pads (3" × 3")
  • 1 triangular bandage

Optional but recommended additions: eye patches, eyewash, cold packs, roller bandages, and CPR barrier devices.

Bloodborne pathogen exposure control

Organizations must designate an infectious disease officer and implement Universal Precautions, including:

  • Barrier devices for any potential exposure
  • Hand-washing protocols
  • Sharps management in puncture-resistant, biohazard-labeled containers

Training maintenance

"OSHA suggests updating training for life-threatening emergencies (CPR) every year and updating training for non-life-threatening incidents (first aid) periodically."

The American Red Cross recommends CPR updates annually and first-aid updates every three years. Most AHA and HSI cards are valid for two years, which is the cadence most employers we work with use.

Need on-site training that drops cleanly into your safety binder?

We bring AHA/HSI-authorized instructors, manikins, and AED trainers to your facility — and we hand you the OSHA-language documentation at the end of the session.

[Get a corporate quote](../corporate.html) or call (817) 992-0585.