What are Supports and Braces?

Supports and Braces are specially designed to assist in the recovery from injuries, ensuring users can carry out their daily tasks with confidence.

Back Supports

Back Supports alleviate stress on the spinal cord, promoting correct posture.

Our Back Supports

Product	Image	Specifications	Features
Ergodyne Proflex Standard 100		Rubber track webbing, detachable and adjustable	Designed for heavy lifting, injury preventative
Workforce by Scott		Elastic back panel, nylon slides, duo-tension, contoured for both men and women	Designed for heavy lifting, injury preventative

Hand and Wrist Supports

Hand and Wrist Supports enable users to maintain their daily routines pain-free.

Our Hand and Wrist Supports

Product	Image	Specifications	Features
Ergodyne Proflex 670		Adjustable hook and loop, neoprene, ambidextrous, washable	Provides wrist support and relives wrist from strain during active labor
Ergodyne Proflex 4000		Elastic body, non-ambidextrous	Anti-microbial lining, open center stay, downward movement limited
Hand & Wrist Support		Elastic fabric, ambidextrous, conforms to shape of wrist	Relieves pain during daily routines, prevents injuries
Support Gloves		Nylon/spandex, continuous compression	Keeps wrist in proper position, relieves pain and fatigue
Wrist Wraps/Wristlets		Thumb loop design, woven elastic, hook and loop closure, ambidextrous	Stabilizes those with wrist injuries and arthritis

Knee Sleeves

Knee Sleeves provide support and compression to improve blood flow, thereby reducing pain throughout daily activities.

Our Knee Sleeves

Product	Image	Specifications	Features
Knee Sleeve with Open Patella		Neoprene material, contoured, open patella adds support and stability	Increases range of motion, provides added support
Single Layer Knee Sleeve		Neoprene material, spandex mesh behind the knee	Breathable and comfortable, supports and stabilizes knee

Tennis Elbow Supports

Tennis Elbow Supports provide instantaneous and continuous pain relief to the elbow area.

Our Tennis Elbow Supports

Product	Image	Specifications	Features
Tennis Elbow Wrap		Nylon/vinyl material, adjustable fit	Minimizes pain and discomfort while exercising

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You’ll find it in every household, every office, and even on public transportation. You probably go weeks to months at a time without thinking about it, but it’s always there when you need it most. Anyone can use it, but it helps to receive training for it. What is it?

If your guess was a crayon, you were close. The answer we’re looking for is a first aid kit.

First aid kits aren’t just recommended—they’re often mandatory. These kits are required to be stocked with the basic essentials and to have their supplies replaced with regularity. On top of this, first aid is more than a kit: it’s a skill to practice. In this article, we will go over different kinds of kits, what goes in them, and some first aid best practices.

What is the Purpose of a First Aid Kit?

It’s all in the name: this is the first aid that a person will receive after sustaining an injury, a wound, or any kind of physical harm. You may think that taking care of the wounded is the responsibility of first responders, such as emergency medical services, and you’re absolutely right. However, there can be a significant gap in time between calling 911 and the emergency services arriving. During that time, the person who sustained the injury will still be in pain and/or bleeding and will need to receive immediate medical attention. First aid kits are made available to treat the injured and wounded until first responders arrive and take over.

What are the Kinds of First Aid Kit?

First aid kits come in two classes, based on the number of supplies and the care it can provide:

Class A First Aid Kits: Simple kits with basic medical products that treat minor cuts, abrasions, and burns. These are recommended for low-risk environments, like households and offices.

Class B First Aid Kits: Upgraded kits with a larger variety of medical supplies to treat workplace injuries. These are recommended for high-risk environments, like warehouses and construction sites.

Beyond the two classes, there are additional varieties of first aid kits available for specific purposes. For instance, burn care kits are popular in environments where there is a high risk of sustaining burns. Trauma kits could be considered extreme first aid kits, as they contain supplies to treat life-threatening injuries.

First aid kits are typically made from high-strength plastic or heavy gauge steel. The kits are manufactured and tested to be resistant to various weather conditions, dust, and corrosion.

What Goes in a First Aid Kit?

The American Red Cross has provided a list of essential items to keep in a first aid kit:

Item	Image	Purpose
2 Absorbent Compress Dressings (5" x 9")		Stops bleeding and covers wounds
25 Adhesive Bandages in assorted sizes		Stops bleeding and covers wounds
1 Adhesive Cloth Tape (30' x 1")		Adheres bandages together, holds dressings
5 Antibiotic Ointment Packets (1g each)		Treats minor cuts, burns, and abrasions
5 Antiseptic Wipe Packets		Cleans wounds, scrapes, and cuts
2 Packets of Aspirin (81mg each)		Mild to moderate pain relief
1 Emergency Blanket		Keeps people warm during emergencies
1 Breathing Barrier with a one-way valve		Prevents disease transmission for safe CPR
1 Instant Cold Compress		Reduces pain and swelling
2 Pairs of Large Nonlatex Gloves		Handles biohazardous substances
2 Hydrocortisone Ointment Packets (1g each)		Treats irritated skin and burns
1 3" Gauze Roller Bandage		Stops bleeding and holds dressings in place
1 4" Roller Bandage		Stops bleeding and holds dressing in place
5 Sterile Gauze Pads (3" x 3")		Cleans, dresses, and preps wounds
5 Sterile Gauze Pads (4" x 4")		Cleans, dresses, and preps wounds
Oral Thermometer, non-mercury and non-glass		Reads people's body temperature
2 Triangular Bandages		Holds dressings in place or supports limbs
Tweezers		Grabs and handles tiny particles
Emergency First Aid Guide		Provides instructions on using the first aid kit

The contents of a first aid kit should be replaced upon the expiration date, every six months, or as needed.

What are Some First Aid Best Practices?

A first aid kit may have most everything you’d need in an emergency, but it’s only as good as the people who use it. As was mentioned earlier, first aid isn’t just a product category, it’s a lifelong skill. If you have a moment, go over the items in your first aid kit to remind yourself what they’re used for. The less time you need to spend remembering how to use a kit, the quicker you can treat the individual needing help.

You can customize your first aid kit if you need to attend to special needs. For instance, if one or more people in your area have a peanut allergy, stock your kit up with a few EpiPens. If there are diabetic concerns, load your kit with insulin and glucose packets. Basic kits serve general purposes, so feel free to tailor your kit to your area’s specific needs.

Furthermore, get trained in emergency response. Take a class on administering CPR, or how to use an automated external defibrillator (AED), or how to apply a tourniquet. This way, you can provide immediate treatment for the injured as everybody waits for the emergency crews. Just remember that when somebody’s life is on the line, a few seconds to minutes can make all the difference.

Finally, form a disaster plan. You cannot account for all the possibilities, but if you outline step-by-step instructions for when things go south, you’ll save yourself from a heap of trouble. Besides, in emergency situations, people trust in those who know what they’re doing (or at least look like they know what they’re doing).

Final Thoughts

First aid kits are essential for any home, workspace, and even for public transportation. They won’t replace a hospital, but that’s also the point: they provide basic medical care until the professionals come and take the reins. You should familiarize yourself with the contents of a kit and what they’re used for. Additionally, you should build your first aid skills so you can provide adequate aid during those first few, critical minutes. You’ll be a hero to your friends, family, and coworkers, and who knows, you may even save a life.

For further reading on our medical supplies, take a look at our article going over our selection of antiseptic wipe products and their recommended uses.

What is Jan/San?

Jan/San, also known as Janitorial and Sanitation, is a product category that is comprised of workplace products that promote cleanliness, safety, and hygiene. Jan/San products safeguard people from harmful contaminants and provide a safe way to dispose of waste. These products are held to strict standards and regulations to ensure their optimal performance and ability to provide adequate waste management.

We have a separate product guide for our glove products:

Gloves Product Guide

Trash Can Liners

Trash Can Liners provide a safe and reliable means for disposing of waste. These large plastic bags snugly fit into standard-sized trash cans and offer moisture and puncture-resistance.

Our Trash Can Liners

Product	Image	Mil	Gallons	Seal Type
HDPE Liners		0.23 - 0.63 Mil	7 - 45 Gallons	Star Seal
LLDPE Liners		1 - 2 Mil	33 - 60 Gallons	Flat Seal and Star Seal

Towel & Tissue

Towel & Tissue consists of sanitary paper products that promote everyday cleanliness. Many of these products are made from chemically-treated wood pulp, providing both strength and a soft touch. Towel and tissue products are manufactured to be highly absorbent, simple to use, and easily disposable.

Our Towel & Tissue

Product	Image	Sheet Size	Color	Capacity
Center Pull Paper Towel		7.87" x 9.84"	White	600 Sheets/Roll
Facial Tissue		7.87" x 7.87"	White	100 Sheets/Box
Hardwound Paper Towel		8" (continuous)	Kraft, White	300' - 800'
Jumbo Toilet Paper		3" (continuous)	White	550' - 1000'
Multi-Fold Paper Towel		9" x 9"	Kraft, White	250 Sheets/Pack
Toilet Paper		4" x 3.3"	White	500 Sheets/Roll
Toilet Seat Covers		14" x 17"	White	250 Sheets/Box

What is Mil Thickness?

A mil is one-thousandth of an inch. For reference, the average human hair is roughly 4 mil thick.

1-2 mil is the standard thickness for trash can liners. High-density liners are stronger than average and are therefore made thinner than standard liners.

What are Safety Glasses?

Safety Glasses keep the eyes of workers safe at industrial worksites. Tested and approved by authorities like OSHA, ANSI, and CE, safety glasses safeguard eyes from impact, penetration, contamination, UV rays, and extremely bright lights. Safety glasses feature lightweight and ergonomic designs that are comfortable to wear while providing enough protective material to keep your eyes safe. Some glasses feature adjustable parts and headbands for added security.

We have a separate product guide for our Safety Supplies products:

Safety Supplies Product Guide

Our Safety Glasses

Product	Image	Lens	Frame	Features
Black Trim		Blue, Clear, Tinted	Black	Tinted lens protects against extreme brightness
Pyramex Cortez		Clear	Navy Blue	Impact protection; comfortable nose pads and temples
Pyramex Fortress		Clear	Silver	Vented lens; adjustable nose pads
Pyramex Integra		Clear	Blue, Black	UV-resistant; adjustable temples
Pyramex Intrepid		Clear	Black	Non-slip nosepiece; adjustable temples
Pyramex Intruder		Blue	Blue	+1.5, +2.0, and +2.5 magnifications available
Pyramex Mayan		Clear	Black	Comfortable and adjustable temples
Pyramex OTS		Clear	Black	Designed to fit over prescription eyeglasses
Pyramex Venture II		Clear	Black	Anti-fog curved lens; adjustable temples
Pyramex V2G		Clear	Black	Interchangeable temples and headband
Pyramex Ztek		Clear, Gold, Grey	Black, Clear, Grey	Mini and regular sizes; +1.5, +2.0, and +2.5 magnifications
Safety Glass Accessories		Clear	N/A	Clips on sides of glasses to provide sideways protection
Safety Goggles		Clear	Clear	Regular and anti-fog; adjustable headband
Visitor Spec		Clear	Clear	UV-resistant; vented temples
Wrap-Around		Blue, Clear	Black, Clear	Wraps around face; regular and anti-fog

What are Safety Supplies?

Safety Supplies encompasses our selection of personal protective equipment (PPE) products. PPE is tested and certified by organizations like OSHA and ANSI to protect workers in industrial workspace or any workspace where there is a threat of harm, injury, or death. PPE can either protect workers from impact and electric shock, like our hard hats, or safeguard them from spills and contaminants, like our disposable gowns and shoe covers. PPE should be disposed of and replaced every few months-to-years, or whenever they are damaged, contaminated, or their ability to provide protection has been compromised.

We have a separate product guide for our Safety Glasses products:

Safety Glasses Product Guide

Disposable Aprons

Disposable Aprons protect the torsos of workers from spills and stains, making them great for food service applications.

Our Disposable Aprons

Product	Image	Mil	Features
Polyethylene Aprons		1 Mil	One size; protects torso from contamination

Disposable Beard Covers

Disposable Beard Covers fully cover the mustache and beard, keeping workspaces free from loose facial hair.

Our Disposable Beard Covers

Product	Image	Mil	Features
Polypropylene Beard Covers		0.4 Mil	Fully covers mustache and beard; keeps loose facial hair contained

Disposable Bouffant Caps

Disposable Bouffant Caps cover the hair of workers, providing a stronger barrier than standard hairnets.

Our Disposable Bouffant Caps

Product	Image	Mil	Features
Polypropylene Bouffant Caps		0.4 Mil	Form-fitting and comfortable; keeps loose hair contained

Disposable Coveralls

Disposable Coveralls cover workers' entire bodies, shielding them from spills and contaminants.

Our Disposable Coveralls

Product	Image	Mil	Features
Microporous Coveralls		2 Mil	Semi-breathable material; full body protection
Polypropylene Coveralls		1 Mil	Lighter material; full body protection
SMS Coveralls		2 Mil	High-strength material; full body protection

Disposable Gowns

Disposable Gowns protect the arms and torsos of workers from stains and spills.

Our Disposable Gowns

Product	Image	Features
Polyethylene Isolation Gowns		One size; safeguards torso from contamination
Polypropylene Isolation Gowns		One size; safeguards torso from contamination

Disposable Hairnets

Disposable Hairnets fully cover the hair of workers, keeping loose hair out of workspaces

Our Disposable Hairnets

Product	Image	Mil	Features
Nylon Hairnets		0.7 Mil	Soft and light; keeps loose hair contained

Disposable Lab Coats

Disposable Lab Coats are standard apparel in laboratories and medical spaces; shielding the upper halves of workers from common contaminants.

Our Disposable Lab Coats

Product	Image	Mil	Features
Microporous Lab Coats		2 Mil	Semi-breathable material; protects upper half of body
Polypropylene Lab Coats		1 Mil	Light and durable; protects upper half of body

Disposable Mob Caps

Disposable Mob Caps are highly comfortable caps, keeping workspaces free of loose hair.

Our Disposable Mob Caps

Product	Image	Mil	Features
Polypropylene Mob Caps		0.4 Mil	Soft and comfortable; keeps loose hair contained

Disposable Oversleeves

Disposable Oversleeves protect the arms of workers from spills and stains.

Our Disposable Oversleeves

Product	Image	Mil	Features
Polyethylene Oversleeves		1 Mil	One size; protects arms from contaminants

Disposable Shoe Covers

Disposable Shoe Covers safeguard shoes from spills, splashes, and scrapes in the workplace.

Our Disposable Shoe Covers

Product	Image	Gauge	Features
Cast Polyethylene Shoe Covers		2.8 Gauge	Light and flexible shoe protection
Polypropylene Shoe Covers		40 Gauge	High-durability shoe protection

Face Masks & Face Shields

Face Masks & Face Shields protect workers from airborne contaminants and pathogens.

Our Face Masks & Face Shields

Product	Image	Features
Cloth Face Masks		One size; comfortable and highly breathable; non-medical
KN95 Face Masks		Adult-sized; superior protection against airborne pathogens, like COVID-19
Procedure Face Masks		Child-sized; standard face mask with adjustable nosepiece

Hard Hats

Hard Hats are standard PPE, protecting the heads of workers from falling objects and electric discharge.

Our Hard Hats

Product	Image	Features
Cap Style Hard Hats		Protects head from impact, penetration, and electric shock

Hearing Protection

Hearing Protection protects workers from extremely loud sounds and hearing damage.

Our Hearing Protection

Product	Image	Features
3M E-A-R Classic		Push-in or Classic style; corded only
Earmuffs		Lightweight and foldable; over-the-ear hearing protection
Howard Leight Airsoft		4-flange design for maximum noise-blocking; corded or uncorded
Howard Leight Laser Lite		Light and comfortable design; corded or uncorded
Moldex Pura-Fit		High-volume Plugstation or standard box; corded or uncorded

Personal Protection Hoods

Personal Protection Hoods fully cover the faces of workers, protecting them from unwanted and harmful contaminants

Our Personal Protection Hoods

Product	Image	Mil	Features
Polypropylene Protection Hoods		0.7 Mil	Protects entire head from contaminants

Safety Vests

Safety Vests increase the visibility of crews working in low-visibility, high-traffic areas. 

Our Safety Vests

Product	Image	Features
Class II Safety Vests		Sleeveless; moderately reflective with some background material; best for crews working in low-to-moderate-traffic areas
Class III Safety Vests		Sleeved; highly reflective with ample background material; best for crews working in low-visibility, high-traffic areas

Thermometers

Thermometers instantly read temperature, providing immediate information about people's health and well-being.

Our Thermometers

Product	Image	Features
Non-Contact Thermometers		Professional and Medical grade; reads temperature without touching
Thermal Imagers		Infrared; displays temperature information in real-time

What are Mil and Gauge?

Mil and gauge are measurements of thickness. Generally speaking, thinner materials are more flexible and cost-effective, yet less puncture-resistant, while thicker materials are stronger and more puncture-resistant, but also more expensive.

Mil is equal to one-thousandth of an inch. For reference, the average human hair clocks in at around 4 mil. Gauge, on the other hand, is equal to one-hundred-thousandth of an inch. Using the same point of reference, the average human hair is about 400 gauge, or 0.4% the length of an inch. Therefore, 1 mil equals 100 gauge and 1 gauge equals 0.01 mil.

For assistance converting between mil, gauge, and microns (one-thousandth of a millimeter), please refer to the following conversion tables:

What is Laundry Wrap?

Laundry Wrap is a type of packaging material used to store and transport clean clothes. The breathable material circulates the air and regulates temperature, preventing mildew from forming and spreading. The plastic film protects clean clothes from common contaminants, like dust and dirt.

Our Laundry Wrap

Product	Image	Gauge	Features
Laundry Wrap		50 - 70 Gauge	Non-PVC; breathable material; protects against common contaminants

What is Gauge?

Gauge, as it relates to packaging supplies, is equal to one-hundred-thousandth of an inch. For reference, a human hair averages at around 400 gauge, or 0.4% the length of an inch.

Most plastic wrap products are available in the 60-120 gauge range, with 80-90 being the industry average. At a gauge of 50-70, laundry wrap is considered medium-grade.

What is Health Care Packaging?

Health Care Packaging encompasses a variety of bags and containers that are specially made to handle and transport biohazardous substances. These packaging materials are manufactured in compliance with international rules and regulations concerning the shipping and storage of substances that pose a risk to health, safety, and the environment. The bags often feature a warning symbol and message to inform workers and keep trespassers away. The polyethylene (PE) used to make these materials is certified by both the CDC and OSHA for safe handling and performance.

Our Health Care Packaging

Product	Image	Mil	Features
2 Wall Biohazard Specimen Bags		2 Mil	LDPE bag; 2 walls of protection for handling and transporting biohazardous substances
3 Wall Biohazard Specimen Bags		2 Mil	LDPE bag; 3 walls of protection for handling and transporting biohazardous substances
Amber Bags		3 Mil	LDPE bag; dark tint protects against UV rays; resistant to tears, punctures, and moisture
Biohazard Waste Liner Bags		0.5 - 1.5 Mil	LDPE or HDPE; tinted pink for easy identification
Tamper Evident Bags		2 Mil	LDPE bag; tamper evident seal; features the message "STAT", "Biohazard", or no message at all

What is Mil Thickness?

The thickness of our health care packaging is measured in mil. Also known as a thou or a point, a mil is one-thousandth of an inch. As a point of reference, the average human hair clocks in at around 4 mil.

Most of our health care packaging is available in the 2-3 mil range. Our biohazard waste liner bags come in the 0.5-1.5 mil range, depending on whether you're getting high density or low density bags.

What is Stretch Wrap?

Stretch Wrap is a film made from polyethylene plastic. This thin and durable film is often used in shipping, palletizing, and warehousing applications and is known for its ability to elongate, or stretch, beyond its resting state. Stretch film is tightly wrapped around items on pallets for extra security during transportation and storage. Stretch wrap comes in various widths, thicknesses, and types. When used properly, stretch films help reduce product loss and protect against injuries within work areas.

We have a separate product guide for our Specialty Stretch Wrap products:

Specialty Stretch Wrap Product Guide

Stretch Wrap vs. Shrink Wrap

While some may use “stretch wrap” and “shrink wrap” synonymously, they are actually two different products. Shrink wrap uses heat to constrict, or shrink, around the item held inside. Stretch wrap does not require heat activation and, in fact, should not be exposed to a heat gun or shrink tunnel for extended periods of time. Stretch films are more pliable and will stretch to create strength during the wrapping process.

For more information on the differences between stretch wrap and shrink wrap, be sure to take a look at our article comparing these packaging materials side-by-side.

What are the Types of Stretch Wrap?

What are the Styles of Stretch Wrap?

Hand Stretch Wrap

Hand Stretch Wrap products range anywhere from 11” to 20” widths. These rolls have a 3” diameter core and are designed to be applied by hand. To ease the application process, dispensers and hand-saver products can be used but are not required.

Our Hand Stretch Wrap

Pallet Stretch Wrap

Pallet Stretch Wrap, also known as extended core or pipe wrap, feature a 1” core that extends beyond the width of the stretch film on both sides. This creates built-in handles for easy application. Tension handles are available for these products to prevent wear on the hands of users.

Our Pallet Stretch Wrap

Mini Stretch Wrap

Mini Stretch Wrap products are small-width rolls, making them great for small-scale bundling applications. Mini stretch wrap is a quick and easy alternative to tape, twine, and strapping products. Mini stretch can be paired with handles or dispensers for easy hand-wrapping applications.

Our Mini Stretch Wrap

Colored Stretch Wrap

Colored Stretch Wrap is available in a variety of types and colors. Our colored wraps come either as opaque or tinted. Opaque stretch film prevents people from being able to see the product that is wrapped up, which is ideal when privacy is a necessity. Tinted stretch film allows the contents to be seen but retains the color of the wrap. Both options can be great for easily organizing and identifying bundles of products.

Our Opaque Colored Stretch Wrap

Our Tinted Colored Stretch Wrap

Coreless Stretch Wrap

Coreless Stretch Wrap rolls do not include the standard cardboard core. This feature reduces both the weight of the roll and waste, making these products a great solution for environmentally conscious buyers. Reusable dispensers take the place of the traditional core for safe and easy application.

Our Coreless Stretch Wrap

Machine Length Stretch Wrap

Machine Length Stretch Wrap is ideal for large-scale industries. These film rolls are large capacity and feature a standard 3” core. When used with a stretch wrapping machine, this stretch film can wrap several pallets and bundles in an hour.

Our Machine Length Stretch Wrap

What Gauge of Stretch Wrap Should I Use?

Gauge, as it relates to packaging, is one-hundred-thousandths of an inch. For reference, human hair comes in at around 400 gauge, or 0.4% of an inch. Gauge is a popular unit of measurement for the thickness of stretch film; the higher the gauge, the thicker the film. Thicker film is stronger than thinner film, but can be more costly.

Heavy Duty (100 Gauge and Above) – We define heavy duty stretch film as anything over 100 gauge. Due to the thickness of the film, these products tend to have less length per roll but are the strongest available in our catalog. These are commonly recommended for wrapping heavy industrial products.

Regular (80 - 99 Gauge) – Any films that are 80-99 gauge are classified as regular. The 80 gauge films are the bestselling and most common products. This thickness offers the best strength for most applications without the added costs of thicker heavy-duty films. If you are unsure of which film to use, we recommend starting with an 80 gauge film in most cases.

Medium (60-79 Gauge) – Our medium gauges range from 60-79 gauge. These films are recommended for smaller loads or where lightweight items are being bundled.

Economy (60 Gauge and Below) – We classify any film under 60 gauge as economy in our catalog. These films are only recommended for the lightest product bundling and wrapping applications. These films offer better pricing than heavier gauge films, but at the expense of strength.

What are Supports and Braces?

Supports and Braces are specially designed to assist in the recovery from injuries, ensuring users can carry out their daily tasks with confidence.

Back Supports

Back Supports alleviate stress on the spinal cord, promoting correct posture.

Our Back Supports

Product	Image	Specifications	Features
Ergodyne Proflex Standard 100		Rubber track webbing, detachable and adjustable	Designed for heavy lifting, injury preventative
Workforce by Scott		Elastic back panel, nylon slides, duo-tension, contoured for both men and women	Designed for heavy lifting, injury preventative

Hand and Wrist Supports

Hand and Wrist Supports enable users to maintain their daily routines pain-free.

Our Hand and Wrist Supports

Product	Image	Specifications	Features
Ergodyne Proflex 670		Adjustable hook and loop, neoprene, ambidextrous, washable	Provides wrist support and relives wrist from strain during active labor
Ergodyne Proflex 4000		Elastic body, non-ambidextrous	Anti-microbial lining, open center stay, downward movement limited
Hand & Wrist Support		Elastic fabric, ambidextrous, conforms to shape of wrist	Relieves pain during daily routines, prevents injuries
Support Gloves		Nylon/spandex, continuous compression	Keeps wrist in proper position, relieves pain and fatigue
Wrist Wraps/Wristlets		Thumb loop design, woven elastic, hook and loop closure, ambidextrous	Stabilizes those with wrist injuries and arthritis

Knee Sleeves

Knee Sleeves provide support and compression to improve blood flow, thereby reducing pain throughout daily activities.

Our Knee Sleeves

Product	Image	Specifications	Features
Knee Sleeve with Open Patella		Neoprene material, contoured, open patella adds support and stability	Increases range of motion, provides added support
Single Layer Knee Sleeve		Neoprene material, spandex mesh behind the knee	Breathable and comfortable, supports and stabilizes knee

Tennis Elbow Supports

Tennis Elbow Supports provide instantaneous and continuous pain relief to the elbow area.

Our Tennis Elbow Supports

Product	Image	Specifications	Features
Tennis Elbow Wrap		Nylon/vinyl material, adjustable fit	Minimizes pain and discomfort while exercising

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You’ll find it in every household, every office, and even on public transportation. You probably go weeks to months at a time without thinking about it, but it’s always there when you need it most. Anyone can use it, but it helps to receive training for it. What is it?

If your guess was a crayon, you were close. The answer we’re looking for is a first aid kit.

First aid kits aren’t just recommended—they’re often mandatory. These kits are required to be stocked with the basic essentials and to have their supplies replaced with regularity. On top of this, first aid is more than a kit: it’s a skill to practice. In this article, we will go over different kinds of kits, what goes in them, and some first aid best practices.

What is the Purpose of a First Aid Kit?

It’s all in the name: this is the first aid that a person will receive after sustaining an injury, a wound, or any kind of physical harm. You may think that taking care of the wounded is the responsibility of first responders, such as emergency medical services, and you’re absolutely right. However, there can be a significant gap in time between calling 911 and the emergency services arriving. During that time, the person who sustained the injury will still be in pain and/or bleeding and will need to receive immediate medical attention. First aid kits are made available to treat the injured and wounded until first responders arrive and take over.

What are the Kinds of First Aid Kit?

First aid kits come in two classes, based on the number of supplies and the care it can provide:

Class A First Aid Kits: Simple kits with basic medical products that treat minor cuts, abrasions, and burns. These are recommended for low-risk environments, like households and offices.

Class B First Aid Kits: Upgraded kits with a larger variety of medical supplies to treat workplace injuries. These are recommended for high-risk environments, like warehouses and construction sites.

Beyond the two classes, there are additional varieties of first aid kits available for specific purposes. For instance, burn care kits are popular in environments where there is a high risk of sustaining burns. Trauma kits could be considered extreme first aid kits, as they contain supplies to treat life-threatening injuries.

First aid kits are typically made from high-strength plastic or heavy gauge steel. The kits are manufactured and tested to be resistant to various weather conditions, dust, and corrosion.

What Goes in a First Aid Kit?

The American Red Cross has provided a list of essential items to keep in a first aid kit:

Item	Image	Purpose
2 Absorbent Compress Dressings (5" x 9")		Stops bleeding and covers wounds
25 Adhesive Bandages in assorted sizes		Stops bleeding and covers wounds
1 Adhesive Cloth Tape (30' x 1")		Adheres bandages together, holds dressings
5 Antibiotic Ointment Packets (1g each)		Treats minor cuts, burns, and abrasions
5 Antiseptic Wipe Packets		Cleans wounds, scrapes, and cuts
2 Packets of Aspirin (81mg each)		Mild to moderate pain relief
1 Emergency Blanket		Keeps people warm during emergencies
1 Breathing Barrier with a one-way valve		Prevents disease transmission for safe CPR
1 Instant Cold Compress		Reduces pain and swelling
2 Pairs of Large Nonlatex Gloves		Handles biohazardous substances
2 Hydrocortisone Ointment Packets (1g each)		Treats irritated skin and burns
1 3" Gauze Roller Bandage		Stops bleeding and holds dressings in place
1 4" Roller Bandage		Stops bleeding and holds dressing in place
5 Sterile Gauze Pads (3" x 3")		Cleans, dresses, and preps wounds
5 Sterile Gauze Pads (4" x 4")		Cleans, dresses, and preps wounds
Oral Thermometer, non-mercury and non-glass		Reads people's body temperature
2 Triangular Bandages		Holds dressings in place or supports limbs
Tweezers		Grabs and handles tiny particles
Emergency First Aid Guide		Provides instructions on using the first aid kit

The contents of a first aid kit should be replaced upon the expiration date, every six months, or as needed.

What are Some First Aid Best Practices?

A first aid kit may have most everything you’d need in an emergency, but it’s only as good as the people who use it. As was mentioned earlier, first aid isn’t just a product category, it’s a lifelong skill. If you have a moment, go over the items in your first aid kit to remind yourself what they’re used for. The less time you need to spend remembering how to use a kit, the quicker you can treat the individual needing help.

You can customize your first aid kit if you need to attend to special needs. For instance, if one or more people in your area have a peanut allergy, stock your kit up with a few EpiPens. If there are diabetic concerns, load your kit with insulin and glucose packets. Basic kits serve general purposes, so feel free to tailor your kit to your area’s specific needs.

Furthermore, get trained in emergency response. Take a class on administering CPR, or how to use an automated external defibrillator (AED), or how to apply a tourniquet. This way, you can provide immediate treatment for the injured as everybody waits for the emergency crews. Just remember that when somebody’s life is on the line, a few seconds to minutes can make all the difference.

Finally, form a disaster plan. You cannot account for all the possibilities, but if you outline step-by-step instructions for when things go south, you’ll save yourself from a heap of trouble. Besides, in emergency situations, people trust in those who know what they’re doing (or at least look like they know what they’re doing).

Final Thoughts

First aid kits are essential for any home, workspace, and even for public transportation. They won’t replace a hospital, but that’s also the point: they provide basic medical care until the professionals come and take the reins. You should familiarize yourself with the contents of a kit and what they’re used for. Additionally, you should build your first aid skills so you can provide adequate aid during those first few, critical minutes. You’ll be a hero to your friends, family, and coworkers, and who knows, you may even save a life.

For further reading on our medical supplies, take a look at our article going over our selection of antiseptic wipe products and their recommended uses.

What is Jan/San?

Jan/San, also known as Janitorial and Sanitation, is a product category that is comprised of workplace products that promote cleanliness, safety, and hygiene. Jan/San products safeguard people from harmful contaminants and provide a safe way to dispose of waste. These products are held to strict standards and regulations to ensure their optimal performance and ability to provide adequate waste management.

We have a separate product guide for our glove products:

Gloves Product Guide

Trash Can Liners

Trash Can Liners provide a safe and reliable means for disposing of waste. These large plastic bags snugly fit into standard-sized trash cans and offer moisture and puncture-resistance.

Our Trash Can Liners

Product	Image	Mil	Gallons	Seal Type
HDPE Liners		0.23 - 0.63 Mil	7 - 45 Gallons	Star Seal
LLDPE Liners		1 - 2 Mil	33 - 60 Gallons	Flat Seal and Star Seal

Towel & Tissue

Towel & Tissue consists of sanitary paper products that promote everyday cleanliness. Many of these products are made from chemically-treated wood pulp, providing both strength and a soft touch. Towel and tissue products are manufactured to be highly absorbent, simple to use, and easily disposable.

Our Towel & Tissue

Product	Image	Sheet Size	Color	Capacity
Center Pull Paper Towel		7.87" x 9.84"	White	600 Sheets/Roll
Facial Tissue		7.87" x 7.87"	White	100 Sheets/Box
Hardwound Paper Towel		8" (continuous)	Kraft, White	300' - 800'
Jumbo Toilet Paper		3" (continuous)	White	550' - 1000'
Multi-Fold Paper Towel		9" x 9"	Kraft, White	250 Sheets/Pack
Toilet Paper		4" x 3.3"	White	500 Sheets/Roll
Toilet Seat Covers		14" x 17"	White	250 Sheets/Box

What is Mil Thickness?

A mil is one-thousandth of an inch. For reference, the average human hair is roughly 4 mil thick.

1-2 mil is the standard thickness for trash can liners. High-density liners are stronger than average and are therefore made thinner than standard liners.

What are Safety Glasses?

Safety Glasses keep the eyes of workers safe at industrial worksites. Tested and approved by authorities like OSHA, ANSI, and CE, safety glasses safeguard eyes from impact, penetration, contamination, UV rays, and extremely bright lights. Safety glasses feature lightweight and ergonomic designs that are comfortable to wear while providing enough protective material to keep your eyes safe. Some glasses feature adjustable parts and headbands for added security.

We have a separate product guide for our Safety Supplies products:

Safety Supplies Product Guide

Our Safety Glasses

Product	Image	Lens	Frame	Features
Black Trim		Blue, Clear, Tinted	Black	Tinted lens protects against extreme brightness
Pyramex Cortez		Clear	Navy Blue	Impact protection; comfortable nose pads and temples
Pyramex Fortress		Clear	Silver	Vented lens; adjustable nose pads
Pyramex Integra		Clear	Blue, Black	UV-resistant; adjustable temples
Pyramex Intrepid		Clear	Black	Non-slip nosepiece; adjustable temples
Pyramex Intruder		Blue	Blue	+1.5, +2.0, and +2.5 magnifications available
Pyramex Mayan		Clear	Black	Comfortable and adjustable temples
Pyramex OTS		Clear	Black	Designed to fit over prescription eyeglasses
Pyramex Venture II		Clear	Black	Anti-fog curved lens; adjustable temples
Pyramex V2G		Clear	Black	Interchangeable temples and headband
Pyramex Ztek		Clear, Gold, Grey	Black, Clear, Grey	Mini and regular sizes; +1.5, +2.0, and +2.5 magnifications
Safety Glass Accessories		Clear	N/A	Clips on sides of glasses to provide sideways protection
Safety Goggles		Clear	Clear	Regular and anti-fog; adjustable headband
Visitor Spec		Clear	Clear	UV-resistant; vented temples
Wrap-Around		Blue, Clear	Black, Clear	Wraps around face; regular and anti-fog

What are Safety Supplies?

Safety Supplies encompasses our selection of personal protective equipment (PPE) products. PPE is tested and certified by organizations like OSHA and ANSI to protect workers in industrial workspace or any workspace where there is a threat of harm, injury, or death. PPE can either protect workers from impact and electric shock, like our hard hats, or safeguard them from spills and contaminants, like our disposable gowns and shoe covers. PPE should be disposed of and replaced every few months-to-years, or whenever they are damaged, contaminated, or their ability to provide protection has been compromised.

We have a separate product guide for our Safety Glasses products:

Safety Glasses Product Guide

Disposable Aprons

Disposable Aprons protect the torsos of workers from spills and stains, making them great for food service applications.

Our Disposable Aprons

Product	Image	Mil	Features
Polyethylene Aprons		1 Mil	One size; protects torso from contamination

Disposable Beard Covers

Disposable Beard Covers fully cover the mustache and beard, keeping workspaces free from loose facial hair.

Our Disposable Beard Covers

Product	Image	Mil	Features
Polypropylene Beard Covers		0.4 Mil	Fully covers mustache and beard; keeps loose facial hair contained

Disposable Bouffant Caps

Disposable Bouffant Caps cover the hair of workers, providing a stronger barrier than standard hairnets.

Our Disposable Bouffant Caps

Product	Image	Mil	Features
Polypropylene Bouffant Caps		0.4 Mil	Form-fitting and comfortable; keeps loose hair contained

Disposable Coveralls

Disposable Coveralls cover workers' entire bodies, shielding them from spills and contaminants.

Our Disposable Coveralls

Product	Image	Mil	Features
Microporous Coveralls		2 Mil	Semi-breathable material; full body protection
Polypropylene Coveralls		1 Mil	Lighter material; full body protection
SMS Coveralls		2 Mil	High-strength material; full body protection

Disposable Gowns

Disposable Gowns protect the arms and torsos of workers from stains and spills.

Our Disposable Gowns

Product	Image	Features
Polyethylene Isolation Gowns		One size; safeguards torso from contamination
Polypropylene Isolation Gowns		One size; safeguards torso from contamination

Disposable Hairnets

Disposable Hairnets fully cover the hair of workers, keeping loose hair out of workspaces

Our Disposable Hairnets

Product	Image	Mil	Features
Nylon Hairnets		0.7 Mil	Soft and light; keeps loose hair contained

Disposable Lab Coats

Disposable Lab Coats are standard apparel in laboratories and medical spaces; shielding the upper halves of workers from common contaminants.

Our Disposable Lab Coats

Product	Image	Mil	Features
Microporous Lab Coats		2 Mil	Semi-breathable material; protects upper half of body
Polypropylene Lab Coats		1 Mil	Light and durable; protects upper half of body

Disposable Mob Caps

Disposable Mob Caps are highly comfortable caps, keeping workspaces free of loose hair.

Our Disposable Mob Caps

Product	Image	Mil	Features
Polypropylene Mob Caps		0.4 Mil	Soft and comfortable; keeps loose hair contained

Disposable Oversleeves

Disposable Oversleeves protect the arms of workers from spills and stains.

Our Disposable Oversleeves

Product	Image	Mil	Features
Polyethylene Oversleeves		1 Mil	One size; protects arms from contaminants

Disposable Shoe Covers

Disposable Shoe Covers safeguard shoes from spills, splashes, and scrapes in the workplace.

Our Disposable Shoe Covers

Product	Image	Gauge	Features
Cast Polyethylene Shoe Covers		2.8 Gauge	Light and flexible shoe protection
Polypropylene Shoe Covers		40 Gauge	High-durability shoe protection

Face Masks & Face Shields

Face Masks & Face Shields protect workers from airborne contaminants and pathogens.

Our Face Masks & Face Shields

Product	Image	Features
Cloth Face Masks		One size; comfortable and highly breathable; non-medical
KN95 Face Masks		Adult-sized; superior protection against airborne pathogens, like COVID-19
Procedure Face Masks		Child-sized; standard face mask with adjustable nosepiece

Hard Hats

Hard Hats are standard PPE, protecting the heads of workers from falling objects and electric discharge.

Our Hard Hats

Product	Image	Features
Cap Style Hard Hats		Protects head from impact, penetration, and electric shock

Hearing Protection

Hearing Protection protects workers from extremely loud sounds and hearing damage.

Our Hearing Protection

Product	Image	Features
3M E-A-R Classic		Push-in or Classic style; corded only
Earmuffs		Lightweight and foldable; over-the-ear hearing protection
Howard Leight Airsoft		4-flange design for maximum noise-blocking; corded or uncorded
Howard Leight Laser Lite		Light and comfortable design; corded or uncorded
Moldex Pura-Fit		High-volume Plugstation or standard box; corded or uncorded

Personal Protection Hoods

Personal Protection Hoods fully cover the faces of workers, protecting them from unwanted and harmful contaminants

Our Personal Protection Hoods

Product	Image	Mil	Features
Polypropylene Protection Hoods		0.7 Mil	Protects entire head from contaminants

Safety Vests

Safety Vests increase the visibility of crews working in low-visibility, high-traffic areas. 

Our Safety Vests

Product	Image	Features
Class II Safety Vests		Sleeveless; moderately reflective with some background material; best for crews working in low-to-moderate-traffic areas
Class III Safety Vests		Sleeved; highly reflective with ample background material; best for crews working in low-visibility, high-traffic areas

Thermometers

Thermometers instantly read temperature, providing immediate information about people's health and well-being.

Our Thermometers

Product	Image	Features
Non-Contact Thermometers		Professional and Medical grade; reads temperature without touching
Thermal Imagers		Infrared; displays temperature information in real-time

What are Mil and Gauge?

Mil and gauge are measurements of thickness. Generally speaking, thinner materials are more flexible and cost-effective, yet less puncture-resistant, while thicker materials are stronger and more puncture-resistant, but also more expensive.

Mil is equal to one-thousandth of an inch. For reference, the average human hair clocks in at around 4 mil. Gauge, on the other hand, is equal to one-hundred-thousandth of an inch. Using the same point of reference, the average human hair is about 400 gauge, or 0.4% the length of an inch. Therefore, 1 mil equals 100 gauge and 1 gauge equals 0.01 mil.

For assistance converting between mil, gauge, and microns (one-thousandth of a millimeter), please refer to the following conversion tables:

What is Laundry Wrap?

Laundry Wrap is a type of packaging material used to store and transport clean clothes. The breathable material circulates the air and regulates temperature, preventing mildew from forming and spreading. The plastic film protects clean clothes from common contaminants, like dust and dirt.

Our Laundry Wrap

Product	Image	Gauge	Features
Laundry Wrap		50 - 70 Gauge	Non-PVC; breathable material; protects against common contaminants

What is Gauge?

Gauge, as it relates to packaging supplies, is equal to one-hundred-thousandth of an inch. For reference, a human hair averages at around 400 gauge, or 0.4% the length of an inch.

Most plastic wrap products are available in the 60-120 gauge range, with 80-90 being the industry average. At a gauge of 50-70, laundry wrap is considered medium-grade.

What is Health Care Packaging?

Health Care Packaging encompasses a variety of bags and containers that are specially made to handle and transport biohazardous substances. These packaging materials are manufactured in compliance with international rules and regulations concerning the shipping and storage of substances that pose a risk to health, safety, and the environment. The bags often feature a warning symbol and message to inform workers and keep trespassers away. The polyethylene (PE) used to make these materials is certified by both the CDC and OSHA for safe handling and performance.

Our Health Care Packaging

Product	Image	Mil	Features
2 Wall Biohazard Specimen Bags		2 Mil	LDPE bag; 2 walls of protection for handling and transporting biohazardous substances
3 Wall Biohazard Specimen Bags		2 Mil	LDPE bag; 3 walls of protection for handling and transporting biohazardous substances
Amber Bags		3 Mil	LDPE bag; dark tint protects against UV rays; resistant to tears, punctures, and moisture
Biohazard Waste Liner Bags		0.5 - 1.5 Mil	LDPE or HDPE; tinted pink for easy identification
Tamper Evident Bags		2 Mil	LDPE bag; tamper evident seal; features the message "STAT", "Biohazard", or no message at all

What is Mil Thickness?

The thickness of our health care packaging is measured in mil. Also known as a thou or a point, a mil is one-thousandth of an inch. As a point of reference, the average human hair clocks in at around 4 mil.

Most of our health care packaging is available in the 2-3 mil range. Our biohazard waste liner bags come in the 0.5-1.5 mil range, depending on whether you're getting high density or low density bags.

What is Stretch Wrap?

Stretch Wrap is a film made from polyethylene plastic. This thin and durable film is often used in shipping, palletizing, and warehousing applications and is known for its ability to elongate, or stretch, beyond its resting state. Stretch film is tightly wrapped around items on pallets for extra security during transportation and storage. Stretch wrap comes in various widths, thicknesses, and types. When used properly, stretch films help reduce product loss and protect against injuries within work areas.

We have a separate product guide for our Specialty Stretch Wrap products:

Specialty Stretch Wrap Product Guide

Stretch Wrap vs. Shrink Wrap

While some may use “stretch wrap” and “shrink wrap” synonymously, they are actually two different products. Shrink wrap uses heat to constrict, or shrink, around the item held inside. Stretch wrap does not require heat activation and, in fact, should not be exposed to a heat gun or shrink tunnel for extended periods of time. Stretch films are more pliable and will stretch to create strength during the wrapping process.

For more information on the differences between stretch wrap and shrink wrap, be sure to take a look at our article comparing these packaging materials side-by-side.

What are the Types of Stretch Wrap?

What are the Styles of Stretch Wrap?

Hand Stretch Wrap

Hand Stretch Wrap products range anywhere from 11” to 20” widths. These rolls have a 3” diameter core and are designed to be applied by hand. To ease the application process, dispensers and hand-saver products can be used but are not required.

Our Hand Stretch Wrap

Pallet Stretch Wrap

Pallet Stretch Wrap, also known as extended core or pipe wrap, feature a 1” core that extends beyond the width of the stretch film on both sides. This creates built-in handles for easy application. Tension handles are available for these products to prevent wear on the hands of users.

Our Pallet Stretch Wrap

Mini Stretch Wrap

Mini Stretch Wrap products are small-width rolls, making them great for small-scale bundling applications. Mini stretch wrap is a quick and easy alternative to tape, twine, and strapping products. Mini stretch can be paired with handles or dispensers for easy hand-wrapping applications.

Our Mini Stretch Wrap

Colored Stretch Wrap

Colored Stretch Wrap is available in a variety of types and colors. Our colored wraps come either as opaque or tinted. Opaque stretch film prevents people from being able to see the product that is wrapped up, which is ideal when privacy is a necessity. Tinted stretch film allows the contents to be seen but retains the color of the wrap. Both options can be great for easily organizing and identifying bundles of products.

Our Opaque Colored Stretch Wrap

Our Tinted Colored Stretch Wrap

Coreless Stretch Wrap

Coreless Stretch Wrap rolls do not include the standard cardboard core. This feature reduces both the weight of the roll and waste, making these products a great solution for environmentally conscious buyers. Reusable dispensers take the place of the traditional core for safe and easy application.

Our Coreless Stretch Wrap

Machine Length Stretch Wrap

Machine Length Stretch Wrap is ideal for large-scale industries. These film rolls are large capacity and feature a standard 3” core. When used with a stretch wrapping machine, this stretch film can wrap several pallets and bundles in an hour.

Our Machine Length Stretch Wrap

What Gauge of Stretch Wrap Should I Use?

Gauge, as it relates to packaging, is one-hundred-thousandths of an inch. For reference, human hair comes in at around 400 gauge, or 0.4% of an inch. Gauge is a popular unit of measurement for the thickness of stretch film; the higher the gauge, the thicker the film. Thicker film is stronger than thinner film, but can be more costly.

Heavy Duty (100 Gauge and Above) – We define heavy duty stretch film as anything over 100 gauge. Due to the thickness of the film, these products tend to have less length per roll but are the strongest available in our catalog. These are commonly recommended for wrapping heavy industrial products.

Regular (80 - 99 Gauge) – Any films that are 80-99 gauge are classified as regular. The 80 gauge films are the bestselling and most common products. This thickness offers the best strength for most applications without the added costs of thicker heavy-duty films. If you are unsure of which film to use, we recommend starting with an 80 gauge film in most cases.

Medium (60-79 Gauge) – Our medium gauges range from 60-79 gauge. These films are recommended for smaller loads or where lightweight items are being bundled.

Economy (60 Gauge and Below) – We classify any film under 60 gauge as economy in our catalog. These films are only recommended for the lightest product bundling and wrapping applications. These films offer better pricing than heavier gauge films, but at the expense of strength.

What are Supports and Braces?

Supports and Braces are specially designed to assist in the recovery from injuries, ensuring users can carry out their daily tasks with confidence.

Back Supports

Back Supports alleviate stress on the spinal cord, promoting correct posture.

Our Back Supports

Product	Image	Specifications	Features
Ergodyne Proflex Standard 100		Rubber track webbing, detachable and adjustable	Designed for heavy lifting, injury preventative
Workforce by Scott		Elastic back panel, nylon slides, duo-tension, contoured for both men and women	Designed for heavy lifting, injury preventative

Hand and Wrist Supports

Hand and Wrist Supports enable users to maintain their daily routines pain-free.

Our Hand and Wrist Supports

Product	Image	Specifications	Features
Ergodyne Proflex 670		Adjustable hook and loop, neoprene, ambidextrous, washable	Provides wrist support and relives wrist from strain during active labor
Ergodyne Proflex 4000		Elastic body, non-ambidextrous	Anti-microbial lining, open center stay, downward movement limited
Hand & Wrist Support		Elastic fabric, ambidextrous, conforms to shape of wrist	Relieves pain during daily routines, prevents injuries
Support Gloves		Nylon/spandex, continuous compression	Keeps wrist in proper position, relieves pain and fatigue
Wrist Wraps/Wristlets		Thumb loop design, woven elastic, hook and loop closure, ambidextrous	Stabilizes those with wrist injuries and arthritis

Knee Sleeves

Knee Sleeves provide support and compression to improve blood flow, thereby reducing pain throughout daily activities.

Our Knee Sleeves

Product	Image	Specifications	Features
Knee Sleeve with Open Patella		Neoprene material, contoured, open patella adds support and stability	Increases range of motion, provides added support
Single Layer Knee Sleeve		Neoprene material, spandex mesh behind the knee	Breathable and comfortable, supports and stabilizes knee

Tennis Elbow Supports

Tennis Elbow Supports provide instantaneous and continuous pain relief to the elbow area.

Our Tennis Elbow Supports

Product	Image	Specifications	Features
Tennis Elbow Wrap		Nylon/vinyl material, adjustable fit	Minimizes pain and discomfort while exercising

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You’ll find it in every household, every office, and even on public transportation. You probably go weeks to months at a time without thinking about it, but it’s always there when you need it most. Anyone can use it, but it helps to receive training for it. What is it?

If your guess was a crayon, you were close. The answer we’re looking for is a first aid kit.

First aid kits aren’t just recommended—they’re often mandatory. These kits are required to be stocked with the basic essentials and to have their supplies replaced with regularity. On top of this, first aid is more than a kit: it’s a skill to practice. In this article, we will go over different kinds of kits, what goes in them, and some first aid best practices.

What is the Purpose of a First Aid Kit?

It’s all in the name: this is the first aid that a person will receive after sustaining an injury, a wound, or any kind of physical harm. You may think that taking care of the wounded is the responsibility of first responders, such as emergency medical services, and you’re absolutely right. However, there can be a significant gap in time between calling 911 and the emergency services arriving. During that time, the person who sustained the injury will still be in pain and/or bleeding and will need to receive immediate medical attention. First aid kits are made available to treat the injured and wounded until first responders arrive and take over.

What are the Kinds of First Aid Kit?

First aid kits come in two classes, based on the number of supplies and the care it can provide:

Class A First Aid Kits: Simple kits with basic medical products that treat minor cuts, abrasions, and burns. These are recommended for low-risk environments, like households and offices.

Class B First Aid Kits: Upgraded kits with a larger variety of medical supplies to treat workplace injuries. These are recommended for high-risk environments, like warehouses and construction sites.

Beyond the two classes, there are additional varieties of first aid kits available for specific purposes. For instance, burn care kits are popular in environments where there is a high risk of sustaining burns. Trauma kits could be considered extreme first aid kits, as they contain supplies to treat life-threatening injuries.

First aid kits are typically made from high-strength plastic or heavy gauge steel. The kits are manufactured and tested to be resistant to various weather conditions, dust, and corrosion.

What Goes in a First Aid Kit?

The American Red Cross has provided a list of essential items to keep in a first aid kit:

Item	Image	Purpose
2 Absorbent Compress Dressings (5" x 9")		Stops bleeding and covers wounds
25 Adhesive Bandages in assorted sizes		Stops bleeding and covers wounds
1 Adhesive Cloth Tape (30' x 1")		Adheres bandages together, holds dressings
5 Antibiotic Ointment Packets (1g each)		Treats minor cuts, burns, and abrasions
5 Antiseptic Wipe Packets		Cleans wounds, scrapes, and cuts
2 Packets of Aspirin (81mg each)		Mild to moderate pain relief
1 Emergency Blanket		Keeps people warm during emergencies
1 Breathing Barrier with a one-way valve		Prevents disease transmission for safe CPR
1 Instant Cold Compress		Reduces pain and swelling
2 Pairs of Large Nonlatex Gloves		Handles biohazardous substances
2 Hydrocortisone Ointment Packets (1g each)		Treats irritated skin and burns
1 3" Gauze Roller Bandage		Stops bleeding and holds dressings in place
1 4" Roller Bandage		Stops bleeding and holds dressing in place
5 Sterile Gauze Pads (3" x 3")		Cleans, dresses, and preps wounds
5 Sterile Gauze Pads (4" x 4")		Cleans, dresses, and preps wounds
Oral Thermometer, non-mercury and non-glass		Reads people's body temperature
2 Triangular Bandages		Holds dressings in place or supports limbs
Tweezers		Grabs and handles tiny particles
Emergency First Aid Guide		Provides instructions on using the first aid kit

The contents of a first aid kit should be replaced upon the expiration date, every six months, or as needed.

What are Some First Aid Best Practices?

A first aid kit may have most everything you’d need in an emergency, but it’s only as good as the people who use it. As was mentioned earlier, first aid isn’t just a product category, it’s a lifelong skill. If you have a moment, go over the items in your first aid kit to remind yourself what they’re used for. The less time you need to spend remembering how to use a kit, the quicker you can treat the individual needing help.

You can customize your first aid kit if you need to attend to special needs. For instance, if one or more people in your area have a peanut allergy, stock your kit up with a few EpiPens. If there are diabetic concerns, load your kit with insulin and glucose packets. Basic kits serve general purposes, so feel free to tailor your kit to your area’s specific needs.

Furthermore, get trained in emergency response. Take a class on administering CPR, or how to use an automated external defibrillator (AED), or how to apply a tourniquet. This way, you can provide immediate treatment for the injured as everybody waits for the emergency crews. Just remember that when somebody’s life is on the line, a few seconds to minutes can make all the difference.

Finally, form a disaster plan. You cannot account for all the possibilities, but if you outline step-by-step instructions for when things go south, you’ll save yourself from a heap of trouble. Besides, in emergency situations, people trust in those who know what they’re doing (or at least look like they know what they’re doing).

Final Thoughts

First aid kits are essential for any home, workspace, and even for public transportation. They won’t replace a hospital, but that’s also the point: they provide basic medical care until the professionals come and take the reins. You should familiarize yourself with the contents of a kit and what they’re used for. Additionally, you should build your first aid skills so you can provide adequate aid during those first few, critical minutes. You’ll be a hero to your friends, family, and coworkers, and who knows, you may even save a life.

For further reading on our medical supplies, take a look at our article going over our selection of antiseptic wipe products and their recommended uses.

What is Jan/San?

Jan/San, also known as Janitorial and Sanitation, is a product category that is comprised of workplace products that promote cleanliness, safety, and hygiene. Jan/San products safeguard people from harmful contaminants and provide a safe way to dispose of waste. These products are held to strict standards and regulations to ensure their optimal performance and ability to provide adequate waste management.

We have a separate product guide for our glove products:

Gloves Product Guide

Trash Can Liners

Trash Can Liners provide a safe and reliable means for disposing of waste. These large plastic bags snugly fit into standard-sized trash cans and offer moisture and puncture-resistance.

Our Trash Can Liners

Product	Image	Mil	Gallons	Seal Type
HDPE Liners		0.23 - 0.63 Mil	7 - 45 Gallons	Star Seal
LLDPE Liners		1 - 2 Mil	33 - 60 Gallons	Flat Seal and Star Seal

Towel & Tissue

Towel & Tissue consists of sanitary paper products that promote everyday cleanliness. Many of these products are made from chemically-treated wood pulp, providing both strength and a soft touch. Towel and tissue products are manufactured to be highly absorbent, simple to use, and easily disposable.

Our Towel & Tissue

Product	Image	Sheet Size	Color	Capacity
Center Pull Paper Towel		7.87" x 9.84"	White	600 Sheets/Roll
Facial Tissue		7.87" x 7.87"	White	100 Sheets/Box
Hardwound Paper Towel		8" (continuous)	Kraft, White	300' - 800'
Jumbo Toilet Paper		3" (continuous)	White	550' - 1000'
Multi-Fold Paper Towel		9" x 9"	Kraft, White	250 Sheets/Pack
Toilet Paper		4" x 3.3"	White	500 Sheets/Roll
Toilet Seat Covers		14" x 17"	White	250 Sheets/Box

What is Mil Thickness?

A mil is one-thousandth of an inch. For reference, the average human hair is roughly 4 mil thick.

1-2 mil is the standard thickness for trash can liners. High-density liners are stronger than average and are therefore made thinner than standard liners.

What are Safety Glasses?

Safety Glasses keep the eyes of workers safe at industrial worksites. Tested and approved by authorities like OSHA, ANSI, and CE, safety glasses safeguard eyes from impact, penetration, contamination, UV rays, and extremely bright lights. Safety glasses feature lightweight and ergonomic designs that are comfortable to wear while providing enough protective material to keep your eyes safe. Some glasses feature adjustable parts and headbands for added security.

We have a separate product guide for our Safety Supplies products:

Safety Supplies Product Guide

Our Safety Glasses

Product	Image	Lens	Frame	Features
Black Trim		Blue, Clear, Tinted	Black	Tinted lens protects against extreme brightness
Pyramex Cortez		Clear	Navy Blue	Impact protection; comfortable nose pads and temples
Pyramex Fortress		Clear	Silver	Vented lens; adjustable nose pads
Pyramex Integra		Clear	Blue, Black	UV-resistant; adjustable temples
Pyramex Intrepid		Clear	Black	Non-slip nosepiece; adjustable temples
Pyramex Intruder		Blue	Blue	+1.5, +2.0, and +2.5 magnifications available
Pyramex Mayan		Clear	Black	Comfortable and adjustable temples
Pyramex OTS		Clear	Black	Designed to fit over prescription eyeglasses
Pyramex Venture II		Clear	Black	Anti-fog curved lens; adjustable temples
Pyramex V2G		Clear	Black	Interchangeable temples and headband
Pyramex Ztek		Clear, Gold, Grey	Black, Clear, Grey	Mini and regular sizes; +1.5, +2.0, and +2.5 magnifications
Safety Glass Accessories		Clear	N/A	Clips on sides of glasses to provide sideways protection
Safety Goggles		Clear	Clear	Regular and anti-fog; adjustable headband
Visitor Spec		Clear	Clear	UV-resistant; vented temples
Wrap-Around		Blue, Clear	Black, Clear	Wraps around face; regular and anti-fog

What are Safety Supplies?

Safety Supplies encompasses our selection of personal protective equipment (PPE) products. PPE is tested and certified by organizations like OSHA and ANSI to protect workers in industrial workspace or any workspace where there is a threat of harm, injury, or death. PPE can either protect workers from impact and electric shock, like our hard hats, or safeguard them from spills and contaminants, like our disposable gowns and shoe covers. PPE should be disposed of and replaced every few months-to-years, or whenever they are damaged, contaminated, or their ability to provide protection has been compromised.

We have a separate product guide for our Safety Glasses products:

Safety Glasses Product Guide

Disposable Aprons

Disposable Aprons protect the torsos of workers from spills and stains, making them great for food service applications.

Our Disposable Aprons

Product	Image	Mil	Features
Polyethylene Aprons		1 Mil	One size; protects torso from contamination

Disposable Beard Covers

Disposable Beard Covers fully cover the mustache and beard, keeping workspaces free from loose facial hair.

Our Disposable Beard Covers

Product	Image	Mil	Features
Polypropylene Beard Covers		0.4 Mil	Fully covers mustache and beard; keeps loose facial hair contained

Disposable Bouffant Caps

Disposable Bouffant Caps cover the hair of workers, providing a stronger barrier than standard hairnets.

Our Disposable Bouffant Caps

Product	Image	Mil	Features
Polypropylene Bouffant Caps		0.4 Mil	Form-fitting and comfortable; keeps loose hair contained

Disposable Coveralls

Disposable Coveralls cover workers' entire bodies, shielding them from spills and contaminants.

Our Disposable Coveralls

Product	Image	Mil	Features
Microporous Coveralls		2 Mil	Semi-breathable material; full body protection
Polypropylene Coveralls		1 Mil	Lighter material; full body protection
SMS Coveralls		2 Mil	High-strength material; full body protection

Disposable Gowns

Disposable Gowns protect the arms and torsos of workers from stains and spills.

Our Disposable Gowns

Product	Image	Features
Polyethylene Isolation Gowns		One size; safeguards torso from contamination
Polypropylene Isolation Gowns		One size; safeguards torso from contamination

Disposable Hairnets

Disposable Hairnets fully cover the hair of workers, keeping loose hair out of workspaces

Our Disposable Hairnets

Product	Image	Mil	Features
Nylon Hairnets		0.7 Mil	Soft and light; keeps loose hair contained

Disposable Lab Coats

Disposable Lab Coats are standard apparel in laboratories and medical spaces; shielding the upper halves of workers from common contaminants.

Our Disposable Lab Coats

Product	Image	Mil	Features
Microporous Lab Coats		2 Mil	Semi-breathable material; protects upper half of body
Polypropylene Lab Coats		1 Mil	Light and durable; protects upper half of body

Disposable Mob Caps

Disposable Mob Caps are highly comfortable caps, keeping workspaces free of loose hair.

Our Disposable Mob Caps

Product	Image	Mil	Features
Polypropylene Mob Caps		0.4 Mil	Soft and comfortable; keeps loose hair contained

Disposable Oversleeves

Disposable Oversleeves protect the arms of workers from spills and stains.

Our Disposable Oversleeves

Product	Image	Mil	Features
Polyethylene Oversleeves		1 Mil	One size; protects arms from contaminants

Disposable Shoe Covers

Disposable Shoe Covers safeguard shoes from spills, splashes, and scrapes in the workplace.

Our Disposable Shoe Covers

Product	Image	Gauge	Features
Cast Polyethylene Shoe Covers		2.8 Gauge	Light and flexible shoe protection
Polypropylene Shoe Covers		40 Gauge	High-durability shoe protection

Face Masks & Face Shields

Face Masks & Face Shields protect workers from airborne contaminants and pathogens.

Our Face Masks & Face Shields

Product	Image	Features
Cloth Face Masks		One size; comfortable and highly breathable; non-medical
KN95 Face Masks		Adult-sized; superior protection against airborne pathogens, like COVID-19
Procedure Face Masks		Child-sized; standard face mask with adjustable nosepiece

Hard Hats

Hard Hats are standard PPE, protecting the heads of workers from falling objects and electric discharge.

Our Hard Hats

Product	Image	Features
Cap Style Hard Hats		Protects head from impact, penetration, and electric shock

Hearing Protection

Hearing Protection protects workers from extremely loud sounds and hearing damage.

Our Hearing Protection

Product	Image	Features
3M E-A-R Classic		Push-in or Classic style; corded only
Earmuffs		Lightweight and foldable; over-the-ear hearing protection
Howard Leight Airsoft		4-flange design for maximum noise-blocking; corded or uncorded
Howard Leight Laser Lite		Light and comfortable design; corded or uncorded
Moldex Pura-Fit		High-volume Plugstation or standard box; corded or uncorded

Personal Protection Hoods

Personal Protection Hoods fully cover the faces of workers, protecting them from unwanted and harmful contaminants

Our Personal Protection Hoods

Product	Image	Mil	Features
Polypropylene Protection Hoods		0.7 Mil	Protects entire head from contaminants

Safety Vests

Safety Vests increase the visibility of crews working in low-visibility, high-traffic areas. 

Our Safety Vests

Product	Image	Features
Class II Safety Vests		Sleeveless; moderately reflective with some background material; best for crews working in low-to-moderate-traffic areas
Class III Safety Vests		Sleeved; highly reflective with ample background material; best for crews working in low-visibility, high-traffic areas

Thermometers

Thermometers instantly read temperature, providing immediate information about people's health and well-being.

Our Thermometers

Product	Image	Features
Non-Contact Thermometers		Professional and Medical grade; reads temperature without touching
Thermal Imagers		Infrared; displays temperature information in real-time

What are Mil and Gauge?

Mil and gauge are measurements of thickness. Generally speaking, thinner materials are more flexible and cost-effective, yet less puncture-resistant, while thicker materials are stronger and more puncture-resistant, but also more expensive.

Mil is equal to one-thousandth of an inch. For reference, the average human hair clocks in at around 4 mil. Gauge, on the other hand, is equal to one-hundred-thousandth of an inch. Using the same point of reference, the average human hair is about 400 gauge, or 0.4% the length of an inch. Therefore, 1 mil equals 100 gauge and 1 gauge equals 0.01 mil.

For assistance converting between mil, gauge, and microns (one-thousandth of a millimeter), please refer to the following conversion tables:

What is Laundry Wrap?

Laundry Wrap is a type of packaging material used to store and transport clean clothes. The breathable material circulates the air and regulates temperature, preventing mildew from forming and spreading. The plastic film protects clean clothes from common contaminants, like dust and dirt.

Our Laundry Wrap

Product	Image	Gauge	Features
Laundry Wrap		50 - 70 Gauge	Non-PVC; breathable material; protects against common contaminants

What is Gauge?

Gauge, as it relates to packaging supplies, is equal to one-hundred-thousandth of an inch. For reference, a human hair averages at around 400 gauge, or 0.4% the length of an inch.

Most plastic wrap products are available in the 60-120 gauge range, with 80-90 being the industry average. At a gauge of 50-70, laundry wrap is considered medium-grade.

What is Health Care Packaging?

Health Care Packaging encompasses a variety of bags and containers that are specially made to handle and transport biohazardous substances. These packaging materials are manufactured in compliance with international rules and regulations concerning the shipping and storage of substances that pose a risk to health, safety, and the environment. The bags often feature a warning symbol and message to inform workers and keep trespassers away. The polyethylene (PE) used to make these materials is certified by both the CDC and OSHA for safe handling and performance.

Our Health Care Packaging

Product	Image	Mil	Features
2 Wall Biohazard Specimen Bags		2 Mil	LDPE bag; 2 walls of protection for handling and transporting biohazardous substances
3 Wall Biohazard Specimen Bags		2 Mil	LDPE bag; 3 walls of protection for handling and transporting biohazardous substances
Amber Bags		3 Mil	LDPE bag; dark tint protects against UV rays; resistant to tears, punctures, and moisture
Biohazard Waste Liner Bags		0.5 - 1.5 Mil	LDPE or HDPE; tinted pink for easy identification
Tamper Evident Bags		2 Mil	LDPE bag; tamper evident seal; features the message "STAT", "Biohazard", or no message at all

What is Mil Thickness?

The thickness of our health care packaging is measured in mil. Also known as a thou or a point, a mil is one-thousandth of an inch. As a point of reference, the average human hair clocks in at around 4 mil.

Most of our health care packaging is available in the 2-3 mil range. Our biohazard waste liner bags come in the 0.5-1.5 mil range, depending on whether you're getting high density or low density bags.

What is Stretch Wrap?

Stretch Wrap is a film made from polyethylene plastic. This thin and durable film is often used in shipping, palletizing, and warehousing applications and is known for its ability to elongate, or stretch, beyond its resting state. Stretch film is tightly wrapped around items on pallets for extra security during transportation and storage. Stretch wrap comes in various widths, thicknesses, and types. When used properly, stretch films help reduce product loss and protect against injuries within work areas.

We have a separate product guide for our Specialty Stretch Wrap products:

Specialty Stretch Wrap Product Guide

Stretch Wrap vs. Shrink Wrap

While some may use “stretch wrap” and “shrink wrap” synonymously, they are actually two different products. Shrink wrap uses heat to constrict, or shrink, around the item held inside. Stretch wrap does not require heat activation and, in fact, should not be exposed to a heat gun or shrink tunnel for extended periods of time. Stretch films are more pliable and will stretch to create strength during the wrapping process.

For more information on the differences between stretch wrap and shrink wrap, be sure to take a look at our article comparing these packaging materials side-by-side.

What are the Types of Stretch Wrap?

What are the Styles of Stretch Wrap?

Hand Stretch Wrap

Hand Stretch Wrap products range anywhere from 11” to 20” widths. These rolls have a 3” diameter core and are designed to be applied by hand. To ease the application process, dispensers and hand-saver products can be used but are not required.

Our Hand Stretch Wrap

Pallet Stretch Wrap

Pallet Stretch Wrap, also known as extended core or pipe wrap, feature a 1” core that extends beyond the width of the stretch film on both sides. This creates built-in handles for easy application. Tension handles are available for these products to prevent wear on the hands of users.

Our Pallet Stretch Wrap

Mini Stretch Wrap

Mini Stretch Wrap products are small-width rolls, making them great for small-scale bundling applications. Mini stretch wrap is a quick and easy alternative to tape, twine, and strapping products. Mini stretch can be paired with handles or dispensers for easy hand-wrapping applications.

Our Mini Stretch Wrap

Colored Stretch Wrap

Colored Stretch Wrap is available in a variety of types and colors. Our colored wraps come either as opaque or tinted. Opaque stretch film prevents people from being able to see the product that is wrapped up, which is ideal when privacy is a necessity. Tinted stretch film allows the contents to be seen but retains the color of the wrap. Both options can be great for easily organizing and identifying bundles of products.

Our Opaque Colored Stretch Wrap

Our Tinted Colored Stretch Wrap