How to equip your vehicle with first aid and spill kits

To keep yourself and others safe, and to protect the environment, you must equip your work vehicle with two key items: a first aid kit that meets the BS 8599-1 standard and a spill kit suitable for any fuel or oil you carry. Having these on board is essential for dealing with minor injuries or accidental leaks from your machinery quickly and professionally.

First Aid Kit: Be Ready for Injuries

Don't just grab an old box of plasters from the house. A proper workplace first aid kit is recommended under Health and Safety regulations. Look for one that is specifically labelled as BS 8599-1 compliant. This ensures it contains the right mix of dressings, bandages, and other items for dealing with common workplace incidents. For a lone worker or a small team working from a single van, a 'small' or 'medium' sized kit is usually sufficient. You can buy these from online safety equipment suppliers or most trade counters.

Spill Kit: Contain Leaks Quickly

Your work involves machinery, and machinery can leak oil or fuel. A spill kit allows you to contain this contamination before it soaks into a client's driveway or pollutes the ground. A vehicle-sized 'oil and fuel' spill kit is ideal. These typically come in a bag and contain absorbent pads, 'socks' to form a barrier around the spill, and special bags for safe disposal of the used materials. They are a small investment that prevents a big problem.

Top Tip: Once you have your kits, make a note in your diary to check them every few months. Replace any items you use from the first aid kit immediately and ensure your spill kit's contents haven't been damaged.