Should First Aid Kits Be Locked in Schools?

When running courses in schools, questions often come up around first aid kits and if they should be locked away, or easily accessible.

The question of whether first aid kits should be locked in schools is a complex one, sparking debate amongst staff, parents, and even students. There are valid arguments on both sides, and it's crucial to weigh the potential benefits and drawbacks before making a decision.

Arguments for Locking First Aid Kits:

Preventing Misuse and Theft: In a busy school environment, first aid supplies can easily be pilfered or misused. Locking kits can ensure that essential items are available when needed for genuine emergencies.
Controlling Access: Limiting access to trained staff allows for proper assessment of injuries and appropriate use of supplies. This can prevent well-meaning but untrained individuals from potentially causing further harm by using incorrect techniques or inappropriate items.
Maintaining Stock Levels: Controlling access can help maintain stock levels and prevent wastage. When access is unrestricted, items can be used unnecessarily or go missing, leaving the kit depleted when a real emergency arises.
Reducing Liability: In some cases, schools might feel that locking kits reduces their liability if untrained individuals use supplies incorrectly, or aren’t aware of their responsibilities to use reporting procedures after an incident.

Arguments Against Locking First Aid Kits:

Delayed Access in Emergencies: The most significant concern is the potential for delayed access in a genuine emergency. Seconds can be critical when dealing with injuries, and a locked kit could hinder immediate treatment.
Creating a False Sense of Security: Locking kits might give a false sense of security, leading people to believe that first aid is readily available when it might not be if the designated key holder is unavailable.
Discouraging Proactive First Aid: If kits are locked, individuals might be less inclined to offer immediate assistance for minor injuries, fearing they'll be unable to access supplies. This could discourage a culture of proactive first aid within the school.
Accessibility for Trained Staff: Even with designated key holders, there's the possibility that they might not be readily available in every situation. This can be particularly problematic in larger schools or during after-school activities.

Finding a Balanced Approach:

Schools should consider a nuanced approach:

Strategic Placement: First aid kits should be strategically placed in easily accessible locations throughout the school, such as near sports facilities, playgrounds, and high-traffic areas. By placing kits in areas where there is supervision (such as a reception), someone can quietly monitor anyone using the kit without there being a barrier to its use
Designated Key Holders: If kits are locked, a sufficient number of staff members should be designated key holders and their locations clearly communicated. This could include teachers, administrative staff, and designated first aiders.
Clear Protocols: Schools should have clear protocols for accessing first aid kits in both routine and emergency situations. These protocols should be communicated to all staff and, where appropriate, to students.
Regular Inspections: Regular inspections of all first aid kits are essential to ensure they are fully stocked and that items are not expired.
Training and Awareness: All staff should receive basic first aid awareness training, including information on the location of first aid kits and the procedures for accessing them.
Consider Unlocked "Minor Injury" Kits: Schools could consider having smaller, unlocked "minor injury" kits readily available for dealing with common issues like cuts and grazes. These kits could contain basic supplies like plasters, antiseptic wipes, and bandages.
Challenge the ‘Why?’: If you believe your first aid kits should be locked away, challenge yourself - why? Is it because this is the easiest, simplest or cheapest option rather than the best way to safeguard staff and pupils? What are the reasons for you wanting to lock the kits away and is there another way to address these concerns?

Conclusion:

The decision to lock or unlock first aid kits in schools requires careful consideration of the specific context. A balanced approach that prioritises both accessibility and the prevention of misuse is crucial. We generally believe that first aid kits should be obvious, well signed and unlocked at all times. Our opinion is that it is important to ensure that the equipment can be easily accessed in an emergency, however, you know your setting better than us and we acknowledge that there are some rare circumstances where items need to be restricted. We’re happy to work with you in this instance to find a way of enabling quick access for those who need it whilst addressing any concerns you may have over unauthorised access.

Need Help?

So, if you are still unsure what is the right approach for you, or want some advice please get in touch: hello@OodlesTraining.com

Keywords: FirstAid, First Aid Kits, First Aider, Schools, Workplace, FAW, EFAW, First Aid at Work, Emergency First Aid at Work, First Aid Training