Why First Aid & CPR Compliance Matters on Construction Sites
Construction consistently ranks as one of the most dangerous industries in the United States. In 2024, construction accounted for over 1,000 workplace fatalities — roughly 1 in 5 of all worker deaths. Many of these deaths were preventable with immediate first aid intervention.
Yet when OSHA inspectors arrive on construction sites, first aid compliance gaps are among the most common findings:
> The bottom line: Having CPR/first aid trained personnel isn't just a regulatory checkbox — it's the difference between a close call and a fatality. And OSHA knows it.
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The Regulation: 29 CFR 1926.50 Explained
What the Standard Actually Says
29 CFR 1926.50 — Medical Services and First Aid is the primary regulation governing construction site first aid requirements. Here's what each subsection requires:
| Section | Requirement |
|---|---|
| 1926.50(a) | Employer shall ensure availability of medical personnel for advice and consultation on occupational health matters |
| 1926.50(b) | Provisions shall be made prior to commencement of the project for prompt medical attention in case of serious injury |
| 1926.50(c) | When a hospital/clinic/infirmary is NOT reasonably accessible, a person trained in first aid shall be available at the worksite |
| 1926.50(d) | First aid supplies shall be easily accessible and appropriate for the hazards |
| 1926.50(e) | Proper equipment for prompt transportation of injured persons shall be provided |
| 1926.50(f) | In areas where 911 is not available, telephone numbers of physicians, hospitals, and ambulances shall be conspicuously posted |
| 1926.50(g) | First aid kits must be checked before being sent to ea