OSHA First Aid Requirements
OSHA 29 CFR 1910.151 mandates first aid for all workplaces. 67% of woodworking shops lack adequate coverage.
Last updated: 2026-02-27
First Aid Coverage Calculator
Calculate emergency response requirements, first aid station placement, medical supply needs, and OSHA compliance.
Emergency Response Station Placement Supply Requirements OSHA Compliance
First Aid Coverage Parameters
Facility Information
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Workforce Information
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people
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Risk Assessment
Emergency Response
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First Aid Coverage Analysis
Configure facility, workforce, and risk assessment to calculate first aid coverage requirements.
🚑 Proper first aid coverage is essential for workplace safety. Follow OSHA standards and local emergency protocols.
How to Use This Calculator
- 1 Enter Facility Info Input facility dimensions, floors, and facility type.
- 2 Workforce Details Enter employees, occupancy, shifts, and working days.
- 3 Risk Assessment Check applicable injury risks: cuts, eye, burns, chemical, respiratory, musculoskeletal.
- 4 Emergency Response Set hospital distance, EMS time, trained personnel, and compliance level.
Pro Tip: Place first aid stations within 50 ft of table saws and jointers — 78% of severe injuries occur at these tools.
| Shop Size | Employees | Stations Required | Max Travel Distance | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| <2,000 sq ft | 1-5 | 1 portable kit | 100 ft | $150-250 |
| 2,000-5,000 | 6-15 | 1 wall station | 150 ft | $300-500 |
| 5,000-10,000 | 16-30 | 2 stations | 200 ft | $600-900 |
| 10,000-20,000 | 31-75 | 3-4 stations | 200 ft | $1,200-1,800 |
| >20,000 | 76+ | 1 per 5,000 sq ft | 200 ft max | $2,000+ |
Based on ANSI Z308.1 and OSHA 29 CFR 1910.151.
Station Optimization Tips
- 3-Minute Rule: Every worker within 3 minutes (200 ft) — critical for bleeding control
- High-Risk Proximity: Within 50 ft of table saws, jointers
- Clear Signage: Green cross ISO 7010 signs visible 50+ ft
- AED: Required for >50 workers or >10 min EMS response
- Monthly Inspections: 45% of kits have expired supplies
Case Study: 15-Person Cabinet Shop
- Station 1: Type B wall cabinet near table saw — $450
- Station 2: Type B + eye wash near finishing — $550
- AED Unit: $1,400
- Training (3 CPR/FA): $600
- Total First Year: $3,800
- ROI: 140% year one (23 ER visits avoided = $27,600 saved)
Glossary of Terms
Federal regulation requiring employers to provide prompt medical attention. Mandates supplies and trained personnel.
Standard for first aid kit contents. Type A (basic) and Type B (high risk). Updated 2021.
High-risk kit with tourniquets, trauma dressings. Required for woodworking shops.
Automated External Defibrillator. Required when >50 workers or EMS >10 minutes.
Emergency flushing station. 15-minute continuous flow. Required near corrosive materials.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are OSHA requirements for workplace first aid?
OSHA requires trained personnel, adequate supplies (ANSI Z308.1), emergency communication, and written emergency plans when medical facilities are not reasonably accessible.
How many first aid stations do I need?
Within 3-4 minutes walking (200 ft max). High-risk areas need dedicated nearby first aid within 50 ft.
What supplies should be in a woodworking first aid kit?
Type B kit: bandages, gauze, tape, antiseptic, burn gel, eye wash, splinter tools, tourniquets, trauma dressings, cold packs, blood-stopping agents.
How often should supplies be inspected?
Monthly: check completeness and expiration. Immediately after use: restock. Quarterly: comprehensive review. 45% of kits have expired supplies.
Who should be trained in first aid?
At least one person per shift with current CPR/First Aid certification. Renewal every 2 years.
What emergency information should be posted?
Emergency numbers, facility address, first aid locations, trained personnel names, evacuation routes, and AED locations.