Kemp USA Waterproof First Aid Tape: Field SOP & Deployment Guide

How to Guides - Product Field Manual SOPs - Luminary Global

Kemp USA Waterproof First Aid Tape: Field SOP & Deployment Guide

Category: Medical Tape & Bandages

Difficulty Level: Tier 2: Basic Preparedness Skills

Complete Field Manual - FREE

Download the official step-by-step PDF guide.

📥 Download PDF Guide

Written by: Valerie Ellis Lavin

Quick Overview

Kemp USA Waterproof First Aid Tape is a latex-free, hard-shell protected medical tape designed for securing dressings and stabilization devices in high-moisture, austere environments where standard tapes fail, used by lifeguards, wilderness responders, athletic trainers, and industrial first aid operators.

The tape is built around four integrated systems that function together under field conditions. The hard plastic spool shell prevents contamination from sand, lint, and moisture until the moment of deployment. The waterproof laminated cloth body maintains tensile strength when wet, resisting peel from sweat, blood, and water exposure. The high-tack, latex-free adhesive bonds aggressively to skin and gauze in diaphoretic conditions, and the hand-tearable design enables one-handed application without scissors, a capability that directly reduces response time in chaotic environments.

Scope of application is limited to BLS and first aid level interventions. The tape is not sterile and must not be used for primary wound closure, tourniquet application, or direct wound packing. It is a securing device only, intended to hold external dressings and stabilization materials in place. Any operator applying this tape circumferentially around a limb must assess CSM post-application to confirm circulatory integrity.

Each roll is a single-use disposable item. Cases ship in quantities of 48 units for bulk kit resupply. Inspection at the start of each shift is required. A cracked or unsecured shell indicates potential adhesive contamination and that roll must be pulled from field rotation immediately.

Field Application Steps

1. DON PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT: Put on medical gloves before handling any wound care materials. Body substance isolation is non-negotiable regardless of environment or urgency.

2. INSPECT AND OPEN THE PROTECTIVE SHELL: Check the hard plastic shell for cracks or failure to close securely. If the shell is compromised, pull that roll from field use. If the shell is intact, disengage the two halves to access the roll.

3. PREPARE THE SKIN SURFACE: Ensure the skin adjacent to the dressing is as clean and dry as conditions allow. Do not place tape directly over the wound. Anchor placement must begin on intact skin beside the gauze.

4. ANCHOR THE TAPE: Place the starting end of the tape on clean skin adjacent to the dressing, not on the wound itself. Press firmly to seat the initial adhesive contact before beginning the wrap.

5. WRAP SNUG, NOT CONSTRICTIVE: Apply the tape with consistent, snug tension. Do not apply circumferential wraps tightly enough to restrict circulation, particularly around limbs with swelling injuries.

6. OVERLAP EACH LAYER BY 50 PERCENT: Each successive pass should overlap the previous layer by half its width. This overlap creates the water-resistant seal required for aquatic and high-perspiration environments.

7. TERMINATE AND SEAL THE DRESSING: Extend the final tape pass 2 to 3 inches beyond the edge of the dressing. Hand-tear the tape using a firm, opposing pull motion at the intended break point, then press the terminal end down firmly against the skin.

8. ASSESS CSM POST-APPLICATION: Check circulation, sensation, and movement distal to the wrap. Assess distal pulse and capillary refill. If capillary refill exceeds 2 seconds, numbness is reported, or the patient reports increased pain, loosen or remove the tape immediately.

9. DISPOSE AND REQUISITION REPLACEMENT: Any roll used on a patient is single-use and must be properly disposed of. Immediately requisition a replacement unit to maintain kit readiness.

Equip Yourself: Kemp USA Waterproof First Aid Tape in Case (1" x 5 yd) Case of 48 pcs

Ensure you have the right gear before an emergency strikes.

View Product

LEGAL DISCLAIMER & SAFETY WARNING:
The information provided in this Luminary Global Field Manual is strictly for educational and informational purposes. It is not a substitute for formal medical, tactical, or professional training. In the event of a medical emergency, immediately seek professional help or contact emergency services. Luminary Global assumes no liability for the misuse of equipment, improper application of techniques, or any injuries/damages resulting from the use of these guidelines. Always rely on your official agency training, local laws, and established protocols during a crisis.