Every school must have an appropriately stocked first aid kit.

A dustproof, lockable and clearly labelled first aid box should be located within the school, and in some circumstances within a student's classroom. It must be stored in a secure place, not accessible to students.

School medical plans should include statements about where the key/s to the first aid are located and who has access to them

A first aid kit might include:

Note: Paracetamol should not be given to students. Refer to the section on medication.

Remember not to handle first aid supplies while wearing possibly contaminated gloves. Change gloves and wash hands after cleaning an injured area.

The contents of the first aid kit should be checked each six months, and expiry dates reviewed. Check packaging of sterile articles for breaks, tears or fracturing.

In schools where there are students with intensive health requirements specific items, may need to be added to this kit.

In some situations small portable kits may be necessary, so that staff have access to them in a range of settings (eg in the classroom or on yard duty). A small first aid kit can be organised in a waist "bum" bag. This should contain a disposable face mask for resuscitation and disposable gloves. They might also contain items specific to the needs of a child for whom there is a medical action plan.

Further information can be gained from the HR Consultant (Occupational Health and Safety) or the State Coordinator, Students with Physical Impairment.