Milwaukee 204PC Class B Type III First Aid Kit

The Milwaukee 204PC Class B Type III First Aid Kit is a rugged and practical addition to any jobsite, and I had the opportunity to put it through its paces. As someone who spends a lot of time on various job sites, having a reliable first aid kit is non-negotiable. The Milwaukee kit, with its 204 pieces, promises to be both comprehensive and easy to access in an emergency.

First Impressions and Build Quality

The first thing that grabs your attention is the impact-resistant body of the kit. Milwaukee has always been known for durable products, and this first aid kit is no exception. The exterior dimensions are 19.7 inches wide, 15.2 inches deep, and 4.6 inches high, making it a sizeable yet portable unit. The IP65 rating for weather protection is a standout feature, ensuring that the contents remain safe from dust and water. This is particularly useful for those who work in harsh environments.

One of the clever design choices is the clear top, which allows for easy identification of the contents without having to open the box. This can save critical seconds in an emergency. The inclusion of retroreflective first aid stickers also helps in quickly locating the kit, even in low-light conditions.

Interior Layout and Organization

Inside, the kit features no-travel bins, which keep items secure even during transportation. The interior dimensions are 18.0 inches wide, 12.0 inches deep, and 3.9 inches high, providing ample space for the 204 items included. However, I found the initial organization to be somewhat lacking. While the compartments are large and versatile, a bit of personal reorganization was needed to make everything easily accessible.

Contents and Utility

The kit complies with ANSI Z308.1-2015 Class B, Type III standards, which means it contains a comprehensive selection of supplies for treating common jobsite injuries. Items range from adhesive bandages and antiseptic wipes to more specialized items like a tourniquet and burn dressings. However, the quality of some items left something to be desired. For instance, the tourniquet included is more akin to those used for drawing blood, and the scissors felt a bit flimsy. While these components are functional, they do not quite match the robust quality of the case itself.

On the positive side, the variety of items included should cover most minor to moderate injuries you might encounter on a job site. From minor cuts and scrapes to more serious injuries requiring a tourniquet, this kit has you covered. It's worth mentioning that the kit has room for you to add your own preferred items, which can be a big plus for those who like to customize their first aid supplies.

Portability and Accessibility

One of the best features of this kit is its portability. Being part of Milwaukee's Packout system, it integrates seamlessly with other Packout products. This means you can easily carry it along with other tools, ensuring that first aid supplies are always on hand. The included wall hanger is another thoughtful addition, allowing for easy mounting in a fixed location.

Practical Usage

In practical terms, having this first aid kit on the job site provides peace of mind. The weather-resistant case ensures that supplies stay dry and usable, even in less-than-ideal conditions. This is crucial for those who work outdoors or in environments where the kit might be exposed to the elements.

The clear top and organized bins mean that in an emergency, you can quickly find what you need without rifling through the entire kit. The retroreflective stickers are a small but useful touch, making the kit easily identifiable even in dim lighting.

Room for Improvement

While the Milwaukee first aid kit is highly functional, there are a few areas where it could be improved. The quality of some individual items, like the tourniquet and scissors, could be better to match the high standard set by the case. Additionally, the initial organization of the contents could be more user-friendly. Although it's easy to reorganize, it would have been nice if it came more intuitively arranged.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Milwaukee 204PC Class B Type III First Aid Kit is a solid choice for those in need of a comprehensive and durable first aid solution for their job site. The impact-resistant, weather-protected case is its strongest selling point, ensuring that your supplies are always in good condition. While some of the included items could be of higher quality, the kit offers a good base that you can customize to suit your needs.

Would I recommend this first aid kit? Yes, particularly for those who already use Milwaukee's Packout system and are looking for a durable, weather-resistant option. The convenience of having a well-organized kit that can be easily integrated with other tools and equipment is invaluable. However, I would advise being prepared to supplement the kit with a few higher-quality items to ensure you have the best possible supplies on hand in an emergency.