Does First Aid gear go out of date? (Yes, here’s why)

Hey there!
Doe First Aid Gear Go Out of Date? Yes! And in this article we will tell you why and what you should do about it.

But first, see it for yourself. If you’re a fan of our TikTok account, you may have seen our new video series featuring our team member, Abi. In these videos, Abi shows examples of first aid gear that have gone out of date – like a triangular bandage that has turned to powder, or bandaids that have lost their sticky backing. Even old tape can become unusable, as Abi discovered when she tried to use it and it didn’t work. Check this out:

So, first aid gear does go out of date. Let’s consider three important reasons why:

1. Some supplies have expiration dates. Just like food and medication, some first aid supplies have expiration dates. For example, antiseptic wipes, hydrogen peroxide, and eye wash solutions all have expiration dates that should be checked regularly. If these supplies are used after their expiration date, they may not work as effectively or could potentially cause harm.
   
2. The materials used in some supplies can deteriorate. Some first aid supplies, like adhesive bandages and gauze, are made with materials that can break down over time. This means that they may not be as effective at sticking to the skin or providing support when they are past their prime. Like the tape above, or our crazy video of a triangular bandage
   
3. Changes in guidelines and best practices. The field of first aid is constantly evolving, and new guidelines and best practices are developed all the time. For example, in the past, cotton buds were often used to clean wounds, but now it’s recommended to use gauze instead because it doesn’t leave behind any residue in the wound. It’s important to stay up-to-date with the latest recommendations to ensure that you are providing the best care possible.

So, what can you do to ensure that your first aid gear is still effective? It’s important to regularly check expiration dates and replace any expired supplies. (Whenever a kit is used or at least once every 12 months)

If you’re looking for more information on meeting the first aid code of practice, be sure to check out our series on the topic. We also have a video on restocking your first aid kit, which can help you ensure that you have everything you need on hand. And don’t forget to follow our TikTok account for more tips and tricks!

If you have any questions or concerns about your first aid supplies, don’t hesitate to contact us. And if you need help restocking your kit, our team is here to assist you.