First Aid Only Kits to Privacy Fences: 8 Safety FAQs I Learned the Hard Way

If you're buying safety gear for your facility, you've probably asked yourself these questions. I've been where you are—and made costly mistakes along the way. Here are the answers I wish I'd had.

1. Is a plumbed eyewash station portable?

Short answer: no. A plumbed eyewash station is connected to a building's water supply. It's fixed in place. What people usually mean is a gravity‑fed portable unit. I once assumed plumbed meant I could move it around—didn't check the spec. Cost me a reinstall fee and a week of downtime. If portability is critical, look for ANSI Z358.1‑compliant portable units. But if you need a continuous 15‑minute flush, plumbed is the way to go.

2. What's the difference between a first aid only kit and a complete first aid kit?

A first aid only kit (often branded “First Aid Only”) typically contains basic supplies—bandages, gauze, antiseptic—for minor injuries. A complete kit adds trauma supplies like tourniquets, splints, and larger dressings. Here's the thing: many buyers think “first aid only” means it covers OSHA minimums. Not always. In 2022 I ordered 50 kits assuming they'd pass an inspection. Three failed because they lacked blood‑borne pathogen cleanup items. Always verify against your industry's specific requirements.

3. How do I correctly order first aid only kits refills?

Refills seem straightforward—until you mix up cabinet sizes. I once ordered “refill for FA‑100” when my cabinet was actually FA‑200. The refill didn't fit. Wasted $320. Plus shipping. What I learned: take a photo of the inside label before ordering. Also, check expiration dates. Some refill packs include items that expire within 6 months. Per FTC guidelines (ftc.gov), “new” doesn't guarantee long shelf life.

4. Do I need a privacy fence for safety compliance?

Sort of. A privacy fence isn't explicitly required by OSHA, but it can solve real problems. For example, if your worksite is near a public area, a privacy fence prevents unauthorized access and shields equipment—which can reduce liability. Also, under federal law (18 U.S. Code § 1708), only USPS‑authorized mail may go in residential mailboxes. If your privacy fence blocks mail delivery, you might run afoul of postal regulations. Trust me, I learned that the hard way after a neighbor complained. Bottom line: use a fence for security, but leave mailbox access clear.

5. Are metatarsal boots mandatory for certain jobs?

OSHA 1910.136 says foot protection must be worn when there's risk of injury to the foot. Metatarsal boots protect the upper foot—common in welding, heavy stamping, and foundry work. Not every job needs them. But I assumed a standard steel toe was enough for a crew doing metal fabrication. After one worker dropped a steel plate on his instep, I switched to metatarsal guards. Costly lesson. Check your hazard assessment. If the risk extends above the toes, metatarsal boots are a no‑brainer.

6. Can a first aid only kit satisfy OSHA requirements?

It can, but only if it's appropriately stocked for your workplace hazards. OSHA references ANSI Z308.1‑2015 for minimum contents. A first aid only kit that meets Class A or Class B requirements can suffice—provided you add any specialized items (burn treatment, eye wash, etc.). I once relied on a basic kit and failed an inspection because we had no eyewash for chemical exposure. Now I always cross‑reference the kit contents with OSHA's non‑mandatory appendix. The FTC also expects any “OSHA compliant” claim to be substantiated—so keep your purchase documentation (Source: ftc.gov, Business Guidance on Advertising).

7. How often should I replace first aid kit refills?

Check monthly for expired or used items. I used to refill only after an incident—bad move. In Q1 2024, we had three minor injuries in one week and found the bandage supply was half empty. Real talk: set a calendar reminder. Also, dispose of expired items properly—don't just toss them. Some states have medical waste rules. I messed that up once and got a warning from the local health department. Now I document every refill date. Not glamorous, but effective.

8. What's the biggest mistake people make with eyewash stations?

Assuming plumbed means maintenance‑free. A plumbed eyewash station still needs weekly activation and annual inspections per ANSI Z358.1. I skipped a monthly flush because “it's connected to water.” Come inspection day, the unit delivered rusty water. Not ideal. Worse than expected. The inspector flagged it. Now I keep a log. Also, if you're considering a portable unit, it's not a replacement for a plumbed station in high‑risk areas. It's a supplement—like having a backup.