A.C.T. Bandage 10 cm is a pressure dressing for controlling massive haemorrhage, irregular wounds and injuries that require effective compression. Its name comes from Active Compression Treatment, and the manufacturer, JB Tacticals, designed it for use under time pressure, under stress and in poor visibility.
The design combines immediate mechanical pressure with active compression. The segmented absorbent pressure pad has rigid compression inserts across its entire surface, so wide pressure is applied from the very first wrap. On contact with blood the inserts gradually expand – according to the manufacturer up to twice their size – which helps maintain and increase pressure over time.
The integrated wound packing module is an approx. 90 cm sleeve with active inserts used to pack a deep wound from its deepest point, layer by layer, while keeping pressure on the source of bleeding. The final section of the sleeve has no inserts, which makes it easier to work in a narrow, deep wound channel. The folded module can also serve as an additional pressure point under the bandage.
Application is made easier by the starter loop, which stabilises the first wrap, and by the segmented hook-and-loop system: pulling off successive sections requires force, which forces firmer bandage tension. The dressing is secured by a large end fastener and an additional clip.
The 10 cm version has a 10 cm wide bandage, 140 cm long unstretched (up to approx. 380 cm), a 10 × 13 cm pad with 4 active inserts in a 2 × 2 layout and a wound packing sleeve with 5 inserts. It weighs 138 g net and folds to 13 × 10 × 3.5 cm, so it fits in any individual first aid kit. The segmented pad adapts better to irregular wounds and difficult areas such as the groin or armpit.
A.C.T. Bandage contains no chitosan or kaolin – it works mechanically, through pressure and active compression. It does not replace a tourniquet for a limb amputation or surgical treatment. It is a single-use dressing. A.C.T. Bandage can be applied by a bystander as well as by a rescuer or medical staff. A wider version of the dressing, for extensive wounds, is the A.C.T. Bandage 15 cm.
Why A.C.T. Bandage in an IFAK?
The most common mistake when applying a pressure dressing is too little pressure – under stress the bandage is applied loosely and the bleeding continues. A.C.T. Bandage reduces this mistake in two ways: the rigid inserts give pressure from the first wrap, and the hook-and-loop fasteners that require force ensure firm tension. The built-in sleeve lets you pack a deep wound straight away, without looking for separate gauze.
The 10 cm format is a good choice for a kit carried on your person, on a belt or in a vest. The design fits the MARCH/TCCC algorithm, in which massive haemorrhage is controlled first. You will find other dressings of this type in the category individual dressings (IFAK).
Massive haemorrhage – pressure first, then the dressing
Life-threatening bleeding is stopped before anything else. Put on gloves, expose the wound and press on the bleeding site immediately. Pack a deep wound with dressing material right to the bottom while keeping pressure with your fingers, then apply a pressure dressing. For bleeding from a limb that cannot be controlled with pressure, apply a tourniquet. Call for help on 112. Action taken by a bystander can decide whether the casualty survives – before the emergency medical team arrives.
We describe it step by step in the guide chapter Massive haemorrhage – first aid, and we write about choosing equipment in the article A first aid kit ready for massive bleeding.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
What is the difference between the 10 cm and 15 cm versions?
The 10 cm version has a 10 × 13 cm pad with 4 inserts, a sleeve with 5 inserts and weighs 138 g. The 15 cm version has a 15 × 13 cm pad with 6 inserts, a sleeve with 8 inserts and weighs 200 g – it works well for more extensive wounds.
Does A.C.T. Bandage contain a haemostatic agent?
No – it contains no chitosan or kaolin. It works mechanically: through the pressure of the pad and the active compression of the inserts, which expand on contact with blood.
Will the dressing replace a tourniquet?
It does not replace a tourniquet for a limb amputation. For bleeding from a limb that cannot be controlled with pressure, a tourniquet is used.
Can the dressing be reused?
No – A.C.T. Bandage is a single-use dressing.
