Every Ontario workplace covered by the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) must keep a properly stocked first aid kit. What goes inside — and how big the kit needs to be — is governed by Regulation 1101 (First Aid Requirements) and, increasingly, by national standards published by the CSA Group.
Who sets the requirements
Two authorities matter here:
- WSIB Regulation 1101 sets out the legal first aid obligations for employers covered by the WSIB, including the contents of the first aid box based on workplace size.
- CSA Group standards (such as the CSA Z1220 series for first aid kits) define modern, standardized kit types and contents. Requirements across Canada have been moving toward these standards, so check which version currently applies to your workplace.
The required kit size and contents scale with the number of workers per shift. A small office needs less than a large facility. For the exact contents list that applies to your workplace, consult the official sources linked below — do not rely on a generic kit alone.
What a workplace first aid kit typically contains
While the exact list depends on the regulation and kit type, most workplace kits include items such as:
- Sterile dressings, gauze pads, and adhesive bandages in assorted sizes
- Roller and triangular bandages
- Adhesive tape and wound-cleaning wipes
- Disposable gloves and a CPR barrier or face shield
- Scissors and tweezers
- An emergency blanket
- A first aid record or treatment log and basic instructions
Keeping your kit compliant
- Place kits where they are clearly visible and easy to reach.
- Check kits regularly and restock used or expired items.
- Match the kit size to the number of workers on each shift.
- Pair the kit with trained first aiders — equipment alone does not meet the requirement.
- Post the WSIB "In Case of Injury at Work" information nearby.
Because regulations and standards are periodically updated, confirm the current requirements directly with the WSIB and CSA Group before purchasing or auditing your kits.
Authoritative sources
This article is for general information only and is not legal advice or a substitute for the official regulation and standards. Always verify current first aid kit requirements with the WSIB, Ontario e-Laws, and CSA Group.