OSHA First Aid Standards

Created by Congress in 1970, the Occupational Safety and Health Association--OSHA--enforces regulations to help keep employees safe while in their work environment, including requiring employers to provide reasonable access to first aid.

Safe Working Conditions

• According to the United States Department of Labor, OSHA requires employers to provide safe working conditions and take reasonable measures to ensure employees are free from unnecessary health hazards. Employers must also provide on-the-job first aid supplies, and in certain cases, personnel to assist with first aid administration.

First Aid

• According to first aid standards outlined by OSHA, the first aid program required of each employer will vary depending on the individual workplace. For instance, a business with three or fewer employees is required to have a small first aid kit on site, while a company whose employees risk exposure to electricity of 50 volts or more must employ emergency personnel trained in first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

Red Cross Certification

• In 1978, the Secretary of Labor and the president of the American Red Cross agreed that those employees who hold a current training certificate from the Red Cross in basic, standard or advanced first aid are considered adequately trained to administer assistance to co-workers or other individuals as necessary.