Creating a first aid kit for your office is not only the smart thing to do in case an emergency happens, but it is also mandatory to stay in compliance with OSHA guidelines. Unfortunately, first aid kits can be expensive. Here are six savvy tips to use in order to help you save money while creating your office’s first aid kit.
1. Take a Trip to Your Local Budget Stores
While you might not find as many brand-name items at budget stores, you will enjoy substantial savings by purchasing store-brand and generic items. You can easily find generic options for bandages, wraps, gauze pads, moistened towelettes, and even over-the-counter medications. While you might not be able to purchase everything you need at your local dollar store, it’s still a good idea to take a look around and see what you can find.
2. Think Outside the Box
If you’re having a hard time coming up with the financial resources for first aid supplies for your office you might want to see if there’s a way to trim the fat out of your business budget. Having an office first aid kit is necessary in order to avoid an OSHA violation. See where you can cut your expenses in order to help you save money so you can stay compliant with OSHA regulations.
3. Write Companies for Coupons and Free Samples
Many companies appreciate when consumers take the time to write them and provide feedback about their products. As a token of their appreciation, many of them send back coupons and free samples. While this is usually a tactic that works with food companies, it may be worth a try with medical first aid suppliers too.
4. Purchase First Aid Items Wholesale
One of the most effective ways to save money on office first aid supplies is to purchase these items wholesale. Buying first aid supplies in bulk is much cheaper than buying them individually. Plus, most first aid items will never expire so you won’t have to worry about wasting money if your first aid products go unused for many years.
5. Ask for Donations
If you’re having a difficult time purchasing everything you need for your office first aid kit you may want to consider other ways to afford it. You could ask for public donations or see if any employees would be willing to chip in. Sometimes local charities will receive donations from companies that they do not need. Asking for help from your community is a viable option that could also lead to future networking opportunities.
6. Stay Within the Guidelines and Cut Out the Extras
Your company’s first aid kit really only needs a few items in order to stay compliant with policy. If you’re having a hard time building a comprehensive first aid kit then just focus on purchasing the basic items that you really need. You can add the other nonessential items to your kit later as your budget allows.