Every business owner should have an emergency kit containing essential items. Assembling a workplace emergency kit is important for all companies regardless of the size and industry.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the U.S. Small Business Administration recommends that companies stock the emergency kit with certain must-have items.

Here, we will inform about the most important items that should be included in every office emergency kit. Companies that go the extra mile to ensure the safety of employees will create a sense of security within the workplace, which will result in increased job satisfaction and productivity.

1. Dust Masks

Airborne fumes, debris, and gas from accidents and disasters can result in different respiratory issues. A dust mask can prevent exposure to dangerous chemicals. Consider buying quality dust masks that can filter smaller air particles and last longer. Buying quality dust masks will result in more protection in case of an emergency and also save money in the long run.

2. Battery Powered Radio

Another important item that should be included in an office emergency kit is a battery-powered radio that can receive alerts from the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).  The radio can alert employees of an imminent natural disaster thereby potentially saving lives.

3. Portable Lighting

Portable lighting is also an essential item for an office emergency kit. Flashlights and candles are best for emergency lighting. Also, headlamps are important portable lighting that can prove invaluable during an emergency. Consider buying a flashlight or hand light that can last for more than 150 hours on three or four AAA batteries.

4. Automated External Defibrillator (AED)

An automated external defibrillator (AED) will prove invaluable in case of a medical emergency. AED devices are used in medical emergencies involving a cardiac arrest. The devices can also be used on victims suffering from the life-threatening cardiac arrhythmia of pulseless ventricular tachycardia and ventricular fibrillation.  Individuals can use an AED device to try to revive a victim through defibrillation. The device delivers a shock to restore normal functioning of the heart. Using the device can greatly increase chances of a victim surviving a sudden cardiac arrest medical emergency.

 5. First Aid Kit

A properly stocked first aid kit is essential to treat employees in case of an emergency. The kit should contain items such as band-aids, surgical gloves, disprin, sterile eye dressings, gauze dressings, and plasters of different shapes and sizes.

Apart from a well-stocked office emergency kit, it’s important that a company should have at least one trained CPR professional in every department. You can easily train existing employees to learn about this essential life-saving skill through an online CPR certification class. This will ensure that employees will be able to respond immediately in the event of a medical emergency.