DIN 13157
German Standard for First Aid Kits - Workplace Emergency Medical Equipment
Last updated: September 21, 2025
Overview
DIN 13157 is the German national standard (Deutsches Institut für Normung) that specifies the minimum requirements for first aid kits in workplaces and public buildings. This standard defines the contents, packaging, and labeling requirements for "Verbandkasten" (first aid boxes) used throughout Germany, Austria, and other German-speaking regions. DIN 13157 is mandatory for workplace compliance with German occupational safety regulations and serves as a model for first aid preparedness in Central European countries.
German Compliance: DIN 13157 is mandatory for workplace compliance with German DGUV regulations and serves as the definitive standard for "Verbandkasten" throughout German-speaking regions.
Standard Classifications
DIN 13157 Type C
Standard workplace first aid kit suitable for most office and industrial environments. Contains comprehensive supplies for treating common workplace injuries and is the most widely used configuration in German workplaces.
Applications: Offices, workshops, warehouses, retail facilities
DIN 13169 (Extended Standard)
Enhanced first aid kit for larger workplaces or higher-risk environments. Contains increased quantities of basic supplies plus additional specialized items for more complex injury management.
Applications: Large facilities, construction sites, high-risk industrial operations
Required Kit Contents (DIN 13157)
| Item (German) | English Translation | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Erste-Hilfe-Anleitung | First Aid Instructions | 1 |
| Wundpflaster | Adhesive Bandages (assorted) | 14 |
| Verbandpäckchen | Sterile Wound Dressings (medium) | 4 |
| Verbandpäckchen | Sterile Wound Dressings (large) | 2 |
| Verbandtuch | Triangular Bandages | 6 |
| Sicherheitsnadeln | Safety Pins | 6 |
| Einmalhandschuhe | Disposable Gloves | 2 pairs |
| Wundreinigungstücher | Wound Cleaning Wipes | 4 |
| Schere | Scissors | 1 |
| Fixierbinde | Conforming Bandages (6cm) | 2 |
| Fixierbinde | Conforming Bandages (8cm) | 3 |
| Heftpflaster | Medical Tape (2.5cm × 5m) | 1 roll |
| Kältekompresse | Instant Cold Compress | 2 |
| Beatmungshilfe | Resuscitation Mask | 1 |
Container Specifications
- Color Requirements: Orange or white container with standardized first aid cross marking
- Size Standards: Minimum dimensions to accommodate all required contents without compression
- Durability Testing: Container must withstand environmental conditions and mechanical stress
- Sealing Requirements: Dust-proof and moisture-resistant sealing to protect contents
- Identification Label: Clear labeling with "ERSTE HILFE" text and internationally recognized symbols
- Wall Mounting: Provision for secure wall mounting at accessible height (1.5-1.7m recommended)
Workplace Requirements and Deployment
German workplace safety regulations (DGUV) specify deployment requirements:
- Coverage Areas: One kit per 50 employees in office environments, one per 20 employees in industrial settings
- Access Distance: Maximum walking distance of 100 meters to nearest first aid kit
- Signage Requirements: Clearly visible emergency signage indicating first aid kit locations
- Environmental Protection: Climate-controlled storage areas protecting from extreme temperatures
- Accessibility Standards: Mounting height and location accessible to all employees including those with disabilities
Quality Control and Certification
- DIN Certification: Kits must be certified by recognized testing bodies to carry DIN 13157 marking
- Medical Device Compliance: All contents must meet EU Medical Device Regulation requirements
- Sterility Assurance: Sterile items must maintain integrity and expiration date compliance
- Batch Documentation: Traceability records for all kit components and manufacturing dates
- Quality Audits: Regular third-party audits of manufacturing and assembly processes
Maintenance and Inspection Procedures
German safety regulations require systematic first aid kit maintenance:
- Monthly Inspections: Regular checks of contents, expiration dates, and container condition
- Replacement Schedule: Immediate replacement of used or expired items to maintain full compliance
- Documentation Requirements: Inspection logs and maintenance records for regulatory compliance
- Responsible Personnel: Designated safety officers trained in first aid kit management
- Emergency Restocking: Procedures for rapid restocking after emergency use
Integration with German Safety Framework
- DGUV Regulations: Compliance with German Social Accident Insurance safety requirements
- Occupational Safety Act: Integration with German workplace safety legislation (ArbSchG)
- EU Directives: Alignment with European workplace safety and medical device directives
- Industry Standards: Coordination with sector-specific safety standards and requirements
- Emergency Response: Integration with workplace emergency response and evacuation procedures
International Recognition
DIN 13157 has influenced first aid standards beyond German-speaking countries:
- Recognized by multinational companies operating in Europe
- Referenced in international safety management standards
- Influences development of EN (European Norm) first aid standards
- Accepted by international certification bodies and auditors
- Used as benchmark for first aid preparedness in Central Europe
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