Life-Saving Lessons: The Importance of First Aid Equipment Maintenance

Picture this scenario…Imagine you are part of a four-person team working to repair the hydraulics on a crane aboard a barge. Two of your team members enter a confined chamber to inspect the pipework, unaware that the rusting of the boat’s metal hull has consumed most of the oxygen in the chamber. Within a minute, the first team member has passed out. The second is disoriented but manages to escape and raise the alarm.

Luckily, you have undertaken the correct first aid training and know how to deal with this type of scenario. You quickly put on your own breathing apparatus and grab the specialist Confined Space Resuscitation Kit, which includes a 2-liter cylinder of medical-grade oxygen.

The company has had the kit for four years and has not had to use it until this moment.

With your breathing apparatus secured, you and another rescuer enter the hull in an attempt to rescue the unconscious man. You reach him, open the kit, apply the breathing apparatus to your unconscious colleague, turn on the oxygen, and hear hissing and feel a draft around the cylinder. No oxygen is coming through. The cylinder has rusted and developed a leak, but because it hasn't been regularly checked, no one knew to replace it. Do you now put your life at risk and give the injured colleague your oxygen from your SCBA

Maintaining equipment

This scenario illustrates the importance of carrying out regular checks on first aid kits and replacing expired or worn components.

In a confined space accident, using an out-of-date first aid kit is unsafe and potentially ineffective. Expired items may be less effective or even pose a safety risk due to deterioration, loss of sterility, or contamination. It's crucial to have a checked and sealed , up-to-date first aid kit readily available in a confined space, as time is of the essence in these situations.

How to check resuscitation kits

To properly check a resuscitation kit, it's crucial to ensure all equipment is present, functional, and up-to-date. This includes checking for expired items, ensuring equipment is sterile (if applicable), and verifying the availability of essential items like oxygen, airways, , and defibrillator pads. Regular checks, ideally weekly, are recommended to maintain the kit's readiness. 

1.     Check for expired items

Pay close attention to expiry dates on all items, especially sterile items, which can lose their sterility over time.

2.     Sealed packaging

Verify that sealed items are still sealed and intact, indicating sterility is maintained, according to the Red Cross First Aid training website.

3.     Non-sterile items

If non-sterile items have no expiry date, assess their suitability based on appearance and condition, according to St John Ambulance.

4.     Verify equipment functionality

• AED: If the kit includes an Automated External Defibrillator (AED), check its operational status by following manufacturer instructions and confirming the device is charged, according to the Care Quality Commission. 

• Oxygen: Verify that the oxygen cylinder is full, and the flow regulator is functioning correctly. Visually inspect for signs of rust, corrosion, or physical damage.

• Masks and airways: Inspect masks and airways for damage or deterioration. 

5.     Ensure essential items are present

Check for items like gloves,  and eye protection, also for the presence of a razor, and adhesive defibrillator pads, including a spare set.

6. Regularly update and review

Implement a system for regular (at least weekly) checks, according to the Resuscitation Council UK.

By prioritising regular maintenance of first aid equipment, and your rescue stretcher, you can ensure that your team is always prepared to handle emergencies safely and effectively. Remember, in critical situations, the reliability of your first aid equipment can make all the difference.

Critical reminders

Up-to-date first aid equipment is as critical as having current casualty care training. Regular first aid and trauma care kit inspections ensure that team members are prepared to handle emergencies effectively.

At Brooklyn Specialist Training Solutions, we ensure you have both. It’s a simple annual reminder from us to you.

Get in touch with our team to learn how we can support you with specialist confined space casualty care training and first aid kit supply, by contacting us on 07795 123172 or email David.nicebss@outlook.com