Free schedule guide · Australia
How often should workplace first aid kits be checked?
After use, check the kit straight away. If it has not been used, the national model guidance describes checking it at least every 12 months. Your risks or local requirements may set a shorter rhythm.
The model Code is guidance, not a one-size-fits-all Australian calendar.
THE PRACTICAL ANSWER
Plan the next check for every kit, but add a check whenever the kit is used or the work changes. Start with the model baseline, then document why your workplace has chosen anything shorter.
Decision guide
Choose the next check, not a generic interval.
Was the kit used?
Yes: check it, replace used items and record the action now.
Has work or access changed?
Yes: review the kit after a move, new hazard, staffing or shift change.
Neither happened?
Use the model at-least-annual baseline, unless local rules or risk set a shorter schedule.
Shorter intervals can be sensible when supplies are used often, hazards are serious, workers are remote or mobile, or replacement takes time. Monthly, quarterly and six-monthly schedules are workplace choices unless guidance applying to your jurisdiction says otherwise.
PRINTABLE WORKSHEET
First aid kit check schedule
Choose a printer or “Save as PDF” in the print dialog.
Record why the interval fits this kit. The national model guidance describes a check after use or, if unused, at least every 12 months. Confirm the guidance and requirements applying where you operate.
Workplace: ____________________ Schedule owner: ____________________ Review date: ____________________
| Kit / location | Planned interval | Reason for interval | Owner | Last checked | Next due |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Trigger checks: After use · after a significant incident · after a move or new work activity · after staffing, shift or access changes.
Check the rule that applies where you work.
| Source | What it says | What to do with it |
|---|---|---|
| National model Code | Check after use or, if unused, at least every 12 months. | Use it as a model baseline, then check whether and how it applies locally. |
| SafeWork NSW guidance | Workplace procedures should state responsibility and check frequency. | Name an owner and put the chosen routine in the workplace procedure. |
| WorkSafe Victoria code | Includes a quarterly and after-event example. | Check the Victorian code if that is the jurisdiction where you operate. |
Read the model Code, SafeWork NSW guidance or WorkSafe Victoria’s compliance code as relevant, then use the regulator directory for other jurisdictions.
What every scheduled check should cover.
Find it
Confirm the kit is where it should be, visible and accessible.
Inspect it
Check contents, expiry, seals, condition and workplace-specific items.
Close it
Assign shortages, record action and set the next date.
Use the workplace first aid kit checklist for item-level checks and the inspection record to document actions and closure.
First aid kit check questions.
Is an annual first aid kit check mandatory everywhere in Australia?
No. The model Code describes checking after use or, if unused, at least every 12 months. It is model guidance and may have legal effect only if approved in your jurisdiction; confirm local requirements with your state or territory regulator.
Should I check a first aid kit after it is used?
Yes. Check what was used, replace items as soon as practicable, and record the action. Do not wait for the next planned date when the kit has been used.
Who should check a workplace first aid kit?
Nominate a person to maintain the kit, give them a clear checklist and a way to record actions, and nominate a backup for leave or multiple sites. The duty holder remains responsible for the overall first aid arrangement.
NEXT STEP
Let Kitora keep the schedule moving.
Kitora keeps repeated checks, shortages, history and next actions together offline. Use it when a paper schedule becomes hard to keep current across multiple kits.