PF214 First aid kit

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Criterion PF214 Guidance

Criterion PF214

There is a first aid kit that is:
- sufficient for the number of children at the service
- easily recognisable and readily accessible to adults and
- inaccessible to children.
There is a system for reviewing the first aid kit so that it stays well-stocked and that any used or expired items are promptly replenished or replaced.

Guidance

How to show you are complying

Each home used for education and care must have a first aid kit. The kit(s) should have a broad range of supplies that help educators treat children, as needed. For example, items to help with caring for wounds, bandaging and supporting children, tools to help administer first aid, and other emergency items.

You can find a list of recommended items to be included in a First Aid kit in the ‘Tools to help you comply’ section.

Access to the first aid kit

You must keep a first aid kit in the home that is easy to identify as a first aid kit. This could be done by clearly labelling it as a ‘First Aid Kit’. It should also be easily accessible to adults but inaccessible to children. This could be achieved by storing it in a clearly marked area at shoulder height for a typical adult, and away from children's play areas.

Reviewing the contents of the first aid kit

You will need a clear system in place to show that your first aid kit(s) are well stocked, with items promptly replenished and replaced. Your system should include a list of first aid supplies you plan to keep in each home where education and care is provided, along with a method to ensure items are regularly checked and replaced.

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How we assess compliance

When assessing whether you comply with PF214

Questions we are likely to ask

Can you show me where the first aid kit is in the home?
What is your system to make sure the first aid kit stays well stocked and that anything used or expired gets replaced?
How did you determine the contents of your first aid kit?

We are likely to look at, measure or count

Whether the location of first aid kit recognisable and accessible to adults.
Whether children can access the first aid kit or not.
Whether the first aid kit(s) is sufficient for the number of children attending and their specific needs.

We are likely to request

Evidence of your system to ensure supplies are regularly checked and replenished.

Tools to help you comply

The tools below are here to support you, but you do not have to use them. You can use other tools or methods that work better for your service.

First aid kit recommended contents [PDF, 60KB]

Why this is important

By having a well-stocked and accessible first aid kit, educators in your service can address children’s minor injuries and illnesses. It can also help to temporarily address more significant injuries and illnesses, while waiting for more urgent medical assistance.

Best practice: Going beyond compliance

Doing more than the minimum can shape better outcomes for children. Here are some ideas or examples you might like to consider.

Checking your first aid kit(s) monthly will help to make sure supplies are replaced, when needed, and less-well used items never expire.

Regularly reviewing the minimum stock level will also allow you to make changes as your service’s roll changes.