How Often Should You Inspect a First Aid Kit?

The Short Answer

At minimum, every 3 months — but high-risk workplaces should inspect monthly. The WHS Code of Practice: First Aid in the Workplace recommends regular checks at intervals appropriate to the workplace risk level, with a formal inspection at least quarterly.

State-by-State Inspection Frequency

The Model WHS Code of Practice doesn't set a fixed inspection frequency — it says first aid kits should be checked regularly, at intervals suited to the workplace and its risks. The intervals below reflect common industry practice around the country, not specific frequencies mandated by each regulator:

These intervals are general guidance based on the Code of Practice and common industry practice — not fixed frequencies set by each regulator. Base your schedule on your own risk assessment and your state or territory regulator's current advice.

What to Check During Each Inspection

A thorough inspection covers more than just counting items. Here is a checklist of what to verify:

1. Expiry dates — Check every item with a use-by date (bandages, antiseptics, medications, eye wash). Remove and replace anything expired.
2. Stock levels — Compare current quantities against the minimum required. Restock anything below threshold.
3. Sterile packaging — Ensure sterile items (dressings, wound closures) have intact, undamaged packaging.
4. Kit condition — Check the container for damage, water ingress, or contamination. Verify the lid/latch works.
5. Signage & accessibility — Confirm the white cross on green background sign is visible. Kit must be easily accessible (not locked, not blocked).
6. Contents list — Verify the contents list inside the kit matches what is actually present.
7. First aider details — Ensure the names and contact details of trained first aiders displayed near the kit are current.

When to Inspect Outside the Schedule

Beyond your regular quarterly (or monthly) cycle, inspect immediately after:

• Any workplace incident where the kit was used
• Environmental events (flooding, extreme heat, pest exposure)
• A workplace move or relocation
• Changes to workplace hazards or worker headcount
• A failed audit or compliance review

Record-Keeping Requirements

Australian WHS regulations require you to maintain records of first aid kit inspections as part of your safety management system. Each inspection record should include:

• Date and time of inspection
• Name and signature of the inspector
• Items checked, replenished, or removed
• Any corrective actions taken
• Next scheduled inspection date

As a good-practice guide, keep inspection records for at least 5 years so they're available for review by WHS inspectors — though exact retention periods vary by record type and jurisdiction.

High-Risk vs Low-Risk Workplaces

Your workplace risk classification affects both inspection frequency and kit requirements:

Low-Risk Workplaces (quarterly inspections)

• Office environments
• Retail shops
• Call centres
• Education (admin areas)

High-Risk Workplaces (monthly inspections)

• Construction sites
• Manufacturing and warehouses
• Mining and resources
• Healthcare and aged care
• Hospitality kitchens
• Remote or isolated work