Scale F and Scale G are specific first aid equipment scales used for Australian domestic commercial vessels. Which one applies can depend on the vessel class, operational area, survey status and the way the vessel operates.
Scale F and Scale G are different prescribed first aid equipment scales used for certain Australian domestic commercial vessels. Scale F generally applies to specified surveyed vessels under Class B and C arrangements, as well as some passenger vessel arrangements in D and E. Scale G commonly applies to surveyed Class 2 and Class 3 vessels in operational areas D and E and to certain unberthed passenger vessels. Always confirm the requirement against your vessel's classification and current AMSA requirements.
If you operate a commercial fishing vessel, work boat, passenger vessel or another domestic commercial vessel, you may have come across the terms Scale F and Scale G when checking your first aid requirements.
They can sound like two different sizes of an ordinary marine first aid kit, but they are more specific than that.
Scale F and Scale G are defined medical and first aid equipment scales used within the Australian Maritime Safety Authority framework for certain domestic commercial vessels.
For surveyed Class 1, Class 2 and Class 3 vessels, the required scale can depend heavily on the vessel's class and operational area.
Understanding that distinction is important because simply purchasing a product labelled "marine first aid kit" does not automatically mean it meets a Scale F or Scale G requirement that applies to your vessel.
What Is a Scale F First Aid Kit?
A Scale F first aid kit is a specified medical and first aid equipment arrangement used for certain domestic commercial vessels.
Under AMSA's current standard arrangements, Scale F applies to surveyed vessels including:
- Class 1B vessels
- Class 1C vessels with unberthed passengers
- Class 1D vessels with berthed passengers
- Class 1E vessels with berthed passengers
- Class 2B vessels
- Class 2C vessels
- Class 3B fishing vessels
- Class 3C fishing vessels
Some vessels required to carry a Scale F kit must also carry a separate medical cabinet.
For example, a surveyed Class 3B fishing vessel has a standard arrangement of a Scale E medical cabinet plus a Scale F first aid kit.
What Is a Scale G First Aid Kit?
Scale G is another specified first aid equipment scale within the domestic commercial vessel framework.
Under AMSA's current standard arrangements, Scale G applies to surveyed vessels including:
- Class 1D vessels with unberthed passengers
- Class 1E vessels with unberthed passengers
- Class 2D vessels
- Class 2E vessels
- Class 3D fishing vessels
- Class 3E fishing vessels
Scale G is therefore commonly relevant to surveyed Class 2 and Class 3 commercial vessels operating in D and E operational areas.
Scale F vs Scale G: What's the Main Difference?
The easiest way to understand the difference is that Scale F and Scale G are different prescribed equipment scales, rather than simply a "large kit" and a "small kit".
Broader Equipment Scale
Used for particular surveyed vessel classes and operational areas, including Class 2B, 2C, 3B and 3C vessels and certain Class 1 passenger vessel arrangements.
Different Prescribed Scale
Commonly applies to surveyed Class 2 and Class 3 vessels operating in D and E areas, as well as certain Class 1 vessels carrying unberthed passengers.
The contents and quantities are defined by the applicable marine medical equipment requirements.
Rather than choosing between F and G based on which kit appears more comprehensive, operators should first identify which requirements apply to their vessel.
Which Scale Applies to Class 2 and Class 3 Vessels?
For many work boat and commercial fishing operators, Class 2 and Class 3 provide a useful example of how operational area can change the standard first aid requirement.
| Vessel | Operational Area | Standard Medical / First Aid Arrangement |
|---|---|---|
| Class 2 | B | Scale E medical cabinet + Scale F first aid kit |
| Class 2 | C | Scale F first aid kit |
| Class 2 | D | Scale G first aid kit |
| Class 2 | E | Scale G first aid kit |
| Class 3 Fishing | B | Scale E medical cabinet + Scale F first aid kit |
| Class 3 Fishing | C | Scale F first aid kit |
| Class 3 Fishing | D | Scale G first aid kit |
| Class 3 Fishing | E | Scale G first aid kit |
This table reflects AMSA's standard medical and first aid arrangements for surveyed Class 2 and Class 3 vessels.
It should not be used as the only check for an individual vessel because exemptions, equivalent solutions and vessel-specific circumstances may affect what applies.
Why Does the Operational Area Matter?
A vessel's operational area forms part of its classification and relates to where it is approved to operate.
This matters for first aid because the medical and first aid arrangements for a vessel operating farther from assistance can differ from those applying to a vessel operating in more sheltered waters.
It is therefore not enough to say:
“It's a fishing boat, so it needs a Scale G kit.”
Class 3B, 3C, 3D and 3E fishing vessels have different standard arrangements even though they are all commercial fishing vessels.
For a deeper explanation, see our guide to commercial fishing vessel first aid kit requirements in Australia.
What About Class 1 Passenger Vessels?
Class 1 passenger vessel requirements are more nuanced because the equipment arrangement can also differ depending on whether passengers are berthed or unberthed.
Under AMSA's standard arrangements:
- Class 1B requires a Scale D medical cabinet plus a Scale F first aid kit
- Class 1C with unberthed passengers uses a Scale F first aid kit
- Class 1C with berthed passengers requires a Scale E medical cabinet plus a Scale F first aid kit
- Class 1D and 1E with unberthed passengers use Scale G
- Class 1D and 1E with berthed passengers use Scale F
This is another reason operators should confirm the classification and circumstances of their own vessel rather than relying on a generic statement about commercial boats.
Does a Scale F or Scale G Kit Have Exact Contents?
Yes.
Scale F and Scale G are not simply marketing categories created by first aid suppliers. The applicable marine standard sets out specific equipment, medical supplies and quantities associated with each scale.
These can include products and medicines that may not appear in a standard workplace first aid kit.
This is why a general-purpose first aid kit should not automatically be assumed to satisfy a prescribed Scale F or Scale G requirement.
Can a General First Aid Kit Be Carried on a Commercial Vessel?
Yes. Commercial vessels may carry additional or general-purpose first aid kits where they are useful for the operation.
However, an additional workplace-style first aid kit should not be confused with a prescribed Scale F or Scale G first aid kit.
Important distinction
Where AMSA requires a Scale F or Scale G first aid kit, the vessel operator needs to ensure the complete required medical supplies, quantities, case, storage, identification and other applicable requirements are satisfied.
A general-purpose first aid kit can be carried in addition to that equipment, but it should not automatically be treated as a substitute for the prescribed scale.
For vessels where a prescribed Scale F or Scale G arrangement does not apply, the appropriate first aid equipment may instead be determined through the applicable vessel requirements and first aid risk assessment.
Can You Carry More Than the Scale F or Scale G Minimum?
Yes, and in some operations that may be appropriate.
AMSA advises vessel owners to carry out a risk assessment and determine whether the types or quantities of medical and first aid supplies should be increased.
- the level of risk during the voyage
- the length of the voyage
- access to medical facilities
- the cargo carried
- the number of people on board
The prescribed scale should therefore be treated as the applicable minimum arrangement where it applies, rather than assuming the same quantity will suit every operation.
Can Some Low-Risk Vessels Carry Different or Fewer Supplies?
Potentially.
AMSA currently notes that some low-risk vessels operating in C, C Restricted, D or E operational areas may be able to carry different or fewer supplies and equipment than those shown in the standard table where a risk assessment supports that approach.
This is addressed through AMSA's generic equivalent solution for carriage of first aid supplies on domestic commercial vessels.
Important
This should not be interpreted as permission for every C, C Restricted, D or E vessel to simply reduce its first aid equipment.
Operators need to confirm that the vessel meets the conditions of the applicable equivalent solution before relying on it.
If you are uncertain whether the standard scale or an equivalent arrangement applies, confirm the requirement with AMSA or an appropriately qualified marine adviser.
What About Non-Survey Commercial Vessels?
Scale F and Scale G tables are particularly relevant to surveyed Class 1, Class 2 and Class 3 vessels, but not every domestic commercial vessel operates under those same prescribed arrangements.
AMSA states that non-survey vessels eligible under the relevant exemptions, as well as Class 4 vessels in survey, generally need to carry a first aid kit unless a specific exemption applies.
For these vessels, the first aid kit carried on board should be informed by a risk assessment considering factors such as:
- distance and time to medical assistance
- communication capability
- the type of operation and hazards involved
- voyage length
- the number and profile of people on board
- expected environmental conditions
- previous incidents and accidents
- first aid training undertaken by the master and crew
In these situations, a portable general-purpose first aid kit may form part of the vessel's overall first aid setup where the applicable requirements and risk assessment support it.
The important point is that a vessel does not necessarily require a prescribed Scale F or Scale G arrangement simply because it is being used commercially. Operators should determine the requirements that apply to their particular vessel before selecting equipment.
Where Must a Scale F or Scale G First Aid Kit Be Stored?
The applicable marine standard includes requirements for how the portable first aid kit is stored and identified.
The kit is to be located adjacent to the Master's accommodation or in the wheelhouse. On small partly open vessels, it needs to be stowed so it is protected from incoming spray and weather.
- Store the supplies in a weathertight portable case
- Use a non-corrosive case of suitable strength and size
- Secure the case appropriately with quick-release closures
- Label the lid and at least two sides with FIRST AID
- Clearly identify the storage location with an appropriate sign or sticker
- Keep the required contents list and relevant information with or adjacent to the kit
These requirements are particularly relevant in a marine environment, where spray, weather, movement and corrosion can affect equipment that is not appropriately stored.
How Often Do Scale F and Scale G Kits Need to Be Checked?
Under the applicable marine standard, first aid kits are to be cleaned and checked every three months.
Operators should also monitor expiry dates and replace supplies that have been used, damaged, contaminated or have otherwise become unsuitable.
- Check the inventory against the applicable scale
- Replace used or missing items
- Check expiry dates
- Inspect packaging for damage or contamination
- Check the condition of the portable case
- Confirm the quick-release closures remain functional
- Make sure FIRST AID markings remain visible
- Confirm the storage location remains clearly identified
What Is a Scale E Medical Cabinet?
A medical cabinet is not simply another name for the portable first aid kit.
Certain surveyed vessels require a medical cabinet as well as a Scale F portable first aid kit.
- Class 2B has a standard arrangement of Scale E medical cabinet plus Scale F first aid kit
- Class 3B has a standard arrangement of Scale E medical cabinet plus Scale F first aid kit
- Class 1C with berthed passengers has a standard arrangement of Scale E medical cabinet plus Scale F first aid kit
- Class 1B has a standard arrangement of Scale D medical cabinet plus Scale F first aid kit
The medical cabinet has separate requirements, so where both are required, carrying only the portable Scale F first aid kit does not satisfy the complete standard arrangement.
Comparing a 3C and 3D Commercial Fishing Vessel
Imagine two commercial fishing operators using broadly similar vessels.
One vessel is surveyed as Class 3C. Under AMSA's standard medical equipment table, that vessel has a Scale F first aid kit requirement.
The second vessel is surveyed as Class 3D. The standard arrangement for that vessel is a Scale G first aid kit.
Even though both are commercial fishing vessels, their operational classification leads to different standard first aid equipment requirements.
If the first vessel were instead classified 3B, the standard arrangement would include a Scale E medical cabinet as well as the Scale F portable first aid kit.
This is why the correct starting point is the vessel's actual classification rather than simply its industry or physical size.
Do You Still Need a First Aid Risk Assessment?
Yes.
Carrying the applicable minimum equipment does not remove the need to consider what could realistically happen during the operation.
AMSA advises vessel owners to carry out a risk assessment to determine what medical and first aid equipment to carry and whether the type or quantity of supplies should be increased.
The question isn't only:
“Which scale applies?”
It is also:
“What first aid equipment is appropriate for the people, hazards and voyage we are actually dealing with?”
Common Scale F and Scale G Mistakes
- Choosing a kit based only on vessel size
- Assuming every commercial fishing vessel needs the same scale
- Buying a generic marine kit without checking the applicable requirements
- Forgetting that some vessels also require a medical cabinet
- Ignoring the vessel's operational area
- Assuming an equivalent solution applies without checking its conditions
- Failing to consider whether additional supplies are needed after risk assessment
- Missing the three-month inspection schedule
- Allowing medical products to expire
- Storing first aid equipment where it is poorly protected or difficult to identify
How Do You Work Out Which First Aid Kit Your Vessel Needs?
A sensible process is to work through the vessel information before selecting a kit.
- Confirm whether the vessel is a domestic commercial vessel
- Confirm whether it is in survey or operating under a non-survey arrangement
- Identify its vessel class
- Confirm its operational area
- Check the current AMSA medical and first aid equipment requirements
- Determine whether a Scale F, Scale G or medical cabinet arrangement applies
- Check whether an exemption or equivalent solution is relevant
- Complete a vessel-specific first aid risk assessment
- Consider whether additional supplies are appropriate
- Establish the required storage, identification and inspection process
If there is any doubt, confirm the vessel's particular safety equipment requirements with AMSA or an appropriately qualified adviser rather than relying on general information alone.
So, What's the Difference Between Scale F and Scale G?
Scale F and Scale G are different prescribed first aid equipment scales used for certain Australian domestic commercial vessels.
Scale F generally applies to specified surveyed vessels under Class B and C arrangements, as well as certain passenger vessel arrangements in D and E. Scale G commonly applies to surveyed Class 2 and Class 3 vessels in D and E and certain unberthed passenger vessels.
Which requirement applies cannot reliably be determined from boat size or industry alone.
Start with the vessel's class, operational area and survey status, check the current AMSA requirements and complete an appropriate risk assessment before selecting first aid equipment.
First Aid Equipment for Commercial Marine Operations
Trade Aid Kits are portable general-purpose first aid kits designed for workplaces and mobile crews. They may be carried aboard commercial vessels as additional first aid equipment where appropriate to the operation and risk assessment.
Trade Aid Classic and Compact Kits are not currently represented as complete AMSA Scale F or Scale G first aid kits.
If your vessel is required to carry a prescribed Scale F or Scale G kit, confirm that your complete medical and first aid setup meets the current AMSA requirements for your vessel class, operational area and survey status before purchasing equipment for that purpose.
For more information about commercial vessel first aid planning, visit our Commercial Marine First Aid Kits Australia guide.
You can also read our guide to first aid requirements for commercial fishing vessels.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Scale F first aid kit?
A Scale F first aid kit is a specified first aid equipment scale used for certain Australian domestic commercial vessels. Which vessels require it depends on factors including vessel class and operational area.
What is a Scale G first aid kit?
Scale G is another specified first aid equipment scale. Under AMSA's standard arrangements it applies to surveyed Class 2D, 2E, 3D and 3E vessels and certain Class 1 passenger vessel arrangements.
Is Scale F bigger than Scale G?
Scale F contains a broader schedule of supplies than Scale G, but it is better to think of F and G as prescribed equipment scales rather than simply different physical kit sizes. The applicable requirement is determined by the vessel's circumstances.
Can I carry a Trade Aid Kit on a commercial vessel?
A Trade Aid Kit may be carried as general-purpose or additional first aid equipment where appropriate to the operation. It should not be assumed to replace a prescribed Scale F or Scale G kit where one is required.
Are Trade Aid Kits AMSA Scale F or Scale G kits?
No. Trade Aid Classic and Compact Kits are not currently represented as complete AMSA Scale F or Scale G first aid kits. Where one of those scales applies, vessel operators should confirm that their complete medical and first aid equipment meets the current AMSA requirements.
What first aid kit does a 3C fishing vessel need?
Under AMSA's standard requirements for surveyed Class 3 vessels, a Class 3C fishing vessel requires a Scale F first aid kit.
What first aid kit does a 3D fishing vessel need?
Under the standard surveyed-vessel requirements, a Class 3D fishing vessel requires a Scale G first aid kit.
Does a 3B fishing vessel only need a Scale F kit?
No. Under AMSA's standard arrangement, a surveyed Class 3B fishing vessel requires a Scale E medical cabinet as well as a Scale F first aid kit.
How often should Scale F and Scale G first aid kits be checked?
The applicable marine standard requires first aid kits to be cleaned and checked every three months. Operators should also monitor stock quantities, packaging condition and expiry dates.
Can a low-risk vessel carry different or fewer first aid supplies?
Some eligible low-risk vessels operating in C, C Restricted, D or E areas may be able to carry different or fewer supplies where the applicable AMSA generic equivalent solution and required risk assessment support that arrangement. Operators should confirm the conditions before relying on this option.
This article provides general information only and is not legal, medical or marine survey advice. Trade Aid Classic and Compact Kits are not currently represented as complete AMSA Scale F or Scale G first aid kits. Medical and first aid requirements can vary according to vessel class, operational area, survey status, exemptions, equivalent solutions and the vessel's individual risk assessment. Always confirm the current requirements that apply to your vessel with AMSA or an appropriately qualified adviser before purchasing equipment for a specific compliance requirement.