New in-car first aid kit standard published

BSI has published guidance for use at the scene of motor accidents.According to the business standards company, this new standard (BS 8599-2 Motor vehicle first aid kits – Part 2: Specification for the contents of motor vehicle first aid kits) will bring existing UK regulations on first aid kits up to date.

BS 8599-2 includes information on the following:

• Contents of a motor vehicle first aid kit
• Requirements given for the container holding the components
• Marking and visibility of the kit
• Motor vehicle categories
• Sizing of kits based on vehicle type in sizes small, medium and large

Anne Hayes Head of Market Development for Governance and Risk at BSI said: “Every single day we come into contact with motor vehicles or transport, so having the peace of mind that there is an equipped and functional first aid kit in place, in case of accidents, is crucially important. A defined piece of guidance that sets out the rules clearly and shows users what to look for, enhances that sense of security greatly and is a positive development for road traffic safety.”

Some of the organizations involved with the development of BS 8599-2 include British Healthcare Trades Association, Department of Transport, Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) and Transport Research Laboratory as well as experts from the emergency care industries.

There is currently no mandatory requirement for motor vehicles to carry first aid kits as is the case in many countries in Europe, it is hoped that having such guidance in place will mean that the UK can follow suit.