Do First Aid Kits Expire? Shelf Life of First Aid Supplies for NZ Workplaces

Yes, first aid kits do expire — not the box itself, but the items inside. For New Zealand businesses, keeping first aid supplies in date is about more than safety. It’s also a legal requirement under WorkSafe NZ guidelines. In this article, we’ll explain what expires, how long supplies last, and give you practical strategies (plus a free checklist) to keep your workplace first aid kit compliant and ready for emergencies.

Why Expiry Dates in First Aid Kits Matter for Businesses

A first aid kit is only as good as the supplies inside. In an emergency, expired items may fail when staff need them most.

• Adhesive bandages and tapes lose stickiness.

• Sterile dressings and gauze become non-sterile after expiry.

• Ointments, creams, and eye washes degrade or become unsafe.

• Antiseptic wipes dry out, losing disinfectant power.

According to WorkSafe NZ employers must ensure first aid facilities are adequate and maintained. That means regular kit checks and replacement of expired supplies.

How Often Should First Aid Kits Be Checked in NZ?

WorkSafe NZ recommends:

• Every three months in higher-risk workplaces (factories, warehouses, commercial kitchens).

• Twice a year in lower-risk environments (offices, retail spaces).

Tip: Assign responsibility to a staff member or health & safety rep to keep kits compliant and avoid last-minute surprises.

Shelf Life of Common First Aid Supplies

Pro tip: Store your kits in cool, dry areas away from sunlight. Vehicle kits should be checked more frequently as heat reduces shelf life.

Strategies to Keep Workplace First Aid Kits Ready

1. Track Expiry Dates

• Keep a log sheet inside each kit lid.

• Record expiry dates of key supplies.

• Check off during inspections.

2. Use Refill Packs Instead of Replacing Kits

Save time and cost by restocking with refill packs tailored to kit size. At Insinc Products, we supply first aid kit refills NZ designed for different workplace needs.

3. Choose the Right Kit for Your Business

Workplace size and industry matter:

• Small office or retail shop: compact workplace kits.

• Restaurants and cafes: kits with burn treatments.

• Factories and warehouses: larger, high-risk kits.

Explore our range of first aid kits NZ to match your workplace risk profile.

Free Resource: First Aid Kit Expiry Checklist

Managing expiry dates doesn’t need to be complicated. We’ve created a downloadable First Aid Kit Expiry & Restocking Checklist to help NZ businesses:

• Track expiry dates in one place

• Record restocking needs

• Assign responsibility to staff

Download Your Free Checklist Now

FAQ: Do First Aid Kits Expire?

Q: Does the first aid kit itself expire?
No, the container doesn’t — but many items inside do.

Q: How often should workplace first aid kits be checked in NZ?
Every three months in higher-risk workplaces, or at least twice yearly in low-risk workplaces.

Q: Can expired supplies still be used?
Not recommended. Expired items may fail or cause harm.

Q: What’s the easiest way to restock?
Order [first aid kit refill packs NZ](insert link) through Insinc Products for fast, compliant restocking.

Keep Your Workplace Safe and Compliant

Expired first aid supplies compromise staff safety and breach NZ compliance requirements. By tracking expiry dates, using refill packs, and checking kits regularly, you’ll always be prepared for emergencies. At Insinc Products, we help New Zealand businesses stay safe with compliant, cost-effective, and eco-friendly first aid solutions.