Why Most Workplace Bleed Control Kits Fail
Most emergencies unfold rapidly and without warning. Ensuring your bleed control kit is operational and accessible can mean saving a life when seconds count.
Major bleeding is a life-threatening emergency that demands immediate, effective intervention. In UK workplaces, accidents involving sharp tools, machinery, or construction materials are not uncommon.
When a severe bleed occurs, the difference between a fully functional bleed control kit and one that is outdated or incomplete can decide the outcome for someone in an emergency.
There are very real risks. An unmaintained kit can lead to costly downtime, regulatory breaches, or even fines if the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) inspects your premises and finds emergency first aid provisions wanting. More importantly, an expired tourniquet or missing trauma dressing can leave staff powerless in the moments when quick action is absolutely critical. This is more than a compliance issue. It is about safeguarding lives and ensuring your workplace can respond effectively when it counts.
Common Mistakes
Across UK workplaces, the same mistakes crop up again and again. Many employers assume that purchasing a bleed control kit and popping it in the cupboard is enough. Others believe it is only relevant in “high-risk” environments such as workshops or kitchens, overlooking hazards present in offices, schools, sports facilities, or retail.
What often goes wrong:
Neglected Expiry Dates
No Replenishment System
Poor Accessibility
Lack of Staff Awareness
These pitfalls come down to unclear responsibilities, irregular checks, and forgetting that a kit is only as good as its last maintenance check.
Step-by-Step Fix
A good bleed control kit programme relies on regular checks, systematic replenishment, accessible storage, and staff engagement. Following these practical steps will ensure your workplace is genuinely prepared for major bleeding incidents.
Step 1. Assign clear responsibility for kit maintenance
Nominate a person or team, provide training, keep logs, and make their role explicit.
Step 2. Establish a routine inspection schedule
Six-monthly for low-risk workplaces, monthly for high-risk. Check expiry dates, damage, seals, and keep a maintenance log.
Step 3. Replace expired or used components without delay
Have buffer stock, source from reputable suppliers, and update logs immediately.
Step 4. Store bleed control kits where staff can access them rapidly
Mount in visible, central areas. Avoid locked or cluttered spaces. Mark clearly on floor plans.
Step 5. Make kit components clearly labelled and easy to use
Label internal pockets, provide clear waterproof instructions, and include a contents list.
Step 6. Involve all staff through training and drills
Remind staff of locations, run “spot the kit” drills, and practice using items like tourniquets.
What Most People Miss
Outstanding workplaces formalise kit maintenance into policy, tie it to risk assessments, and adapt after incidents. The goal is embedding kit readiness into workplace safety culture.
The Bigger Picture
Well-maintained kits show commitment to safety and compliance with UK law. They also enable quicker response, reduce downtime, and build trust with staff and insurers.
Wrap-Up
The best emergency kit is ready for anyone, any time. Assign responsibility, make checks routine, replace items promptly, ensure visibility, and train staff.
At a Glance — Quick Bleed Control Kit Maintenance Checklist
Assign Responsibility
Schedule Regular Inspections
Log Each Check
Replace Expired/Used Items
Ensure Accessibility
Label Contents Clearly
Update Staff
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How often should I check expiry dates and contents?
At least every six months, monthly for high-risk workplaces, and immediately after use.
Q. Where can I get replacements?
From reputable UK medical suppliers or manufacturers.
Q. Is it legally required to have a bleed control kit?
Employers must provide “adequate and appropriate” first aid. HSE recommends assessing for major bleed hazards.
Q. Where should the kit be kept?
Well-lit, accessible, high-traffic or high-risk areas. Avoid locked or cluttered spaces.
Q. Should all staff know how to use the kit?
Yes. Clear instructions and basic training enable anyone to help quickly.
Q. How do we maintain records?
Use a paper or digital log for inspections, replacements, and initials.
Q. Can we store extra supplies with the kit?
Yes, but avoid overfilling so the kit remains organised.
