What is the difference between a dressing and a bandage?

A dressing is the sterile pad placed directly on a wound to absorb fluid and protect it, while a bandage holds the dressing in place or provides support and compression. Many sterile wound dressings combine both, with an absorbent pad attached to a conforming bandage.

What is an HSE wound dressing?

An HSE wound dressing is a sterile dressing sized to meet UK Health and Safety Executive guidance for workplace first aid kits. They come in medium, large and extra-large and combine an absorbent pad with an attached conforming bandage for quick application.

What is a triangular bandage used for?

A triangular bandage is most commonly used to make an arm sling, but it can also secure dressings, immobilise limbs or apply pressure. We stock both single-use non-woven and reusable calico versions.

Which bandage is best for sprains and strains?

A crepe or elastic conforming bandage is usually best for sprains and strains, as it provides gentle support and compression while allowing movement. Cohesive bandages are also popular because they stick to themselves without clips or tape.

Dressings & Bandages | Sterile Wound Dressings & HSE

Dressings & Bandages

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Sterile dressings and bandages for every first aid and wound care need. From minor cuts to major trauma, the right dressing controls bleeding, protects wounds and supports injuries — which is why dressings and bandages are the core of any first aid kit, whether for the workplace, home, vehicle or clinical setting.

At Jax First Aid we stock a comprehensive range to cover every scenario. Choose from sterile HSE wound dressings in medium, large and extra-large, eye pad and finger dressings, and ambulance and trauma dressings for serious bleeding. Our bandage range includes triangular bandages (single-use and reusable calico), crepe, conforming, cohesive, tubular and elastic adhesive bandages, alongside plasters, sterile swabs, medical tapes, cotton wool and haemostatic dressings.

We supply schools, workplaces, first aid trainers, sports teams and healthcare providers, with bulk discounts, purchase orders and instant credit available. All orders ship fast across the UK.