First aid kits should be available in a designated location in the prop shop for the treatment of minor scratches, burns, headaches, nausea, etc.  Often the first aid area is near a sink to allow easy access to water for washing hands before treatment and cleansing of small wounds.  For minor first aid treatments, staff should be trained in basic first aid and can self-monitor appropriate care.  

Standard first aid kits should include:

Ø Adhesive bandages in various sizes - the cloth variety tend to hold best and ones made for fingers, knuckles, or knees are especially useful

Ø Antiseptic wipes

Ø Antibiotic ointment such as Neosporin

Ø Anti-itch cream – hydrocortisone 1%

Ø Burn spray

Ø Hydrogen Peroxide

Ø Bandage scissors for cutting tape and gauze      

Ø Aspirin or other pain reliever      

Ø Tweezers for removing slivers or other small imbedded substances        

Ø Cold packs for placing on sprains or other injuries

Ø Elastic bandage      

Ø Gauze pads      

Ø Gauze rolls        

Ø Medical tape        

Ø Triangular bandage- 40"        

Ø Ammonia inhalant capsules

Ø Biohazard bag with ties        

Ø Mouth to mouth barrier

       Ø Latex or Nitrile gloves

For non-emergency medical assistance requiring more than basic first aid, informing the shop supervisor or properties director before proceeding to a medical facility for care is standard procedure.  Obviously if someone sustains a serious injury creating an emergency, appropriate assistance is given immediately and transportation to the local hospital emergency room provided.

Maintaining an open line of communication between the staff working in the shop and management allows all concerns about occupational and environmental health and safety matters to be addressed appropriately and in a timely manner.