Service Training - First Aid

Summary

This video script offers vital insights into the importance of first aid, emphasizing the necessity of remaining calm and prepared in emergencies. It covers a wide range of scenarios, from burns and insect stings to more severe conditions like cardiac arrest and poisoning. The script provides practical steps for administering first aid, including the use of a first aid kit and AED, as well as the importance of hygiene and safety precautions. It also touches on specific injuries and situations, such as CPR, shock, and choking, guiding viewers on how to effectively respond and stabilize victims until professional help arrives.

Takeaways

• 🆘 Basic first aid is crucial for providing immediate medical care in case of sudden injury or illness, potentially saving lives.
• 🧘‍♂️ Staying calm is essential when administering first aid to think clearly, assess the situation, and comfort the person in distress.
• 📋 Assessing the situation is vital to determine if basic aid is needed or if professional medical help is required immediately.
• 🩹 First aid kits are important for treating minor injuries and providing temporary relief until professional help arrives.
• 📍 Familiarize yourself with the locations of first aid kits and AEDs in your workplace for quick access during emergencies.
• 🧼 Proper hygiene, including handwashing and using disinfectant wipes, is the first step in administering first aid to prevent infection.
• 🥼 Wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) like gloves, safety glasses, and breathing barriers is necessary to ensure safety during first aid.
• 🗑 Good housekeeping and proper disposal of contaminated items are important after providing first aid to prevent the spread of infection.
• 🚑 Immediate medical attention is required for serious injuries like head injuries, major bleeding, and suspected fractures.
• 🚑 CPR is a vital technique for emergencies where breathing or heartbeat has stopped; even basic knowledge can make a difference.
• 🔥 Different types of burns require specific treatments, and third-degree burns are medical emergencies needing immediate care.

Q & A

What is the primary purpose of basic first aid according to the video?

The primary purpose of basic first aid is to provide immediate medical care to someone experiencing a sudden injury or illness, which can be crucial in life-threatening situations.

Why is it important to remain calm when administering first aid?

Remaining calm is important to think clearly, assess the situation effectively, and provide comfort to the person in distress while administering aid.

What should one do after taking a deep breath while assessing a situation requiring first aid?

After taking a deep breath, one should assess the situation to determine whether basic aid is required or if emergency medical attention is necessary.

What is the role of a first aid kit in treating injuries?

A first aid kit contains the necessary equipment to treat most minor injuries, providing temporary relief until medical professionals arrive.

Where are first aid kits typically located in the workplace according to the video?

First aid kits are typically located inside a garage bay and inside each of the branch offices in the workplace.

What is an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) and when should it be used?

An AED is a medical device designed to analyze heart rhythms and deliver an electric shock to victims experiencing cardiac arrest. It should be used when someone is in cardiac arrest and immediate action is required.

Why is it important to take proper precautions when administering first aid?

Proper precautions ensure the safety of both the person administering aid and the person receiving care, including washing hands, wearing PPE, and disposing of contaminated items to reduce the risk of infection.

What should be done with used bandages, PPE, sharp objects, or needles after administering first aid?

Used bandages, PPE, sharp objects, or needles should be immediately disposed of using a biohazard bag or sharps container, following proper disposal procedures.

What is the recommended approach for treating minor cuts or abrasions as per the video?

The initial treatment for minor cuts or abrasions includes cleansing the wound with antiseptic or soap and water, applying a dressing or bandage if bleeding occurs, and seeking medical attention if necessary.

How should one respond to a severe allergic reaction in the field?

In case of a severe allergic reaction, one should call 911 immediately, ask if the person carries an EpiPen and assist with its use if needed, and ensure the person does not receive anything to drink while waiting for help.

What are the steps to perform the Heimlich maneuver on an adult?

To perform the Heimlich maneuver on an adult, stand behind them, make a fist and place it above the navel but below the rib cage, grasp the fist with the other hand, and perform quick upward thrusts into the abdomen, repeating until the blockage is dislodged.

Outlines

00:00

🚑 Basic First Aid and Emergency Preparedness

This paragraph emphasizes the importance of being prepared for accidents and knowing basic first aid, which can be critical in life-threatening situations. It covers the definition of basic first aid, its various forms including treatment for burns, cuts, insect stings, and support during medical emergencies. The script stresses the importance of staying calm, assessing the situation, and stabilizing the person. It also introduces the concept of first aid kits, their contents, and their purpose as a temporary measure until professional help arrives. The responsibilities of Service Sanitation employees are highlighted, including familiarity with first aid kit locations and the use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs). The paragraph concludes with guidelines on safety precautions and hygiene practices when administering first aid.

06:45

🚑 CPR and Emergency Response Techniques

The second paragraph focuses on cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), a vital first aid technique for situations where someone's breathing or heartbeat has stopped. It outlines the recommendations by the American Heart Association for learning CPR, including for untrained bystanders. The script provides detailed steps for performing CPR, including checking for consciousness, using an AED, and the method of chest compressions. It also addresses how to handle shock, minor cuts and abrasions, major external bleeding, and animal bites, providing first aid steps for each scenario. The importance of calling 911 in case of severe injuries is reiterated.

11:47

🐜 Insect Stings, Allergic Reactions, and Nosebleeds

This paragraph discusses the treatment of insect stings, highlighting the difference between mild and severe reactions. It provides a step-by-step guide for treating mild stings with cold compresses and over-the-counter creams, and when to seek medical attention for severe symptoms like difficulty breathing or swelling. The script also covers allergic reactions, including symptoms and immediate actions such as calling 911 and using an EpiPen if available. Additionally, it offers advice on managing nosebleeds, including the proper way to apply pressure and the potential need for medical assistance if bleeding persists.

16:50

🔥 Burn Treatment and Workplace Eye Injuries

The fourth paragraph delves into the different types and degrees of burns, offering specific treatment advice for first, second, and third-degree burns. It emphasizes the importance of immediate cooling, proper dressing, and the urgency of seeking medical help for severe burns. The paragraph also addresses eye injuries in the workplace, stressing the necessity of wearing protective eyewear and the correct procedure for flushing a foreign substance from the eye, including the importance of seeking medical attention and bringing relevant safety data sheets (SDS).

21:53

🤕 Sprains, Fractures, and Workplace Head Injuries

This section provides guidance on dealing with sprains and fractures, advocating for the R.I.C.E. method (Rest, Ice, Compress, Elevate) for minor sprains and the importance of seeking medical attention for more severe injuries. It also covers the steps to take when encountering a broken bone, including immobilization and the need for professional medical care. The paragraph further discusses head injuries, detailing the assessment of consciousness levels, the appropriate first aid responses, and the signs that warrant immediate emergency service intervention.

26:53

☣️ Poison Exposure, Seizures, and Choking

The final paragraph covers a range of critical first aid scenarios including toxic exposure, seizures, and choking. For poisoning, it suggests immediate contact with poison control and outlines steps for ingestion, eye contact, skin contact, and inhalation incidents. The script also addresses how to assist someone having a seizure, emphasizing safety and the importance of not restraining the individual. Lastly, it explains the Heimlich maneuver for different situations, including for oneself, others, pregnant individuals, and infants, underscoring the necessity of medical follow-up even after successful dislodging of a choking object.

🦷 Dental Injuries and Choking in Infants

The last paragraph specifically addresses dental injuries, instructing individuals to rinse the displaced tooth in milk or water and attempt to reinsert it, or store it in a suitable medium if reinsertion is not possible. It highlights the urgency of reaching a dentist as quickly as possible to maximize the chances of successful reimplantation. Additionally, the paragraph provides instructions for performing the Heimlich maneuver on infants, including the correct positioning and techniques to dislodge an obstruction in their airways, and the importance of calling emergency services.

Keywords

💡First Aid

First Aid refers to the initial assistance or medical care given to someone who suddenly suffers from an injury or illness. In the video's context, it underscores the importance of being equipped with basic first aid skills to manage various emergencies, from burns to insect stings, emphasizing its role in potentially life-saving situations.

💡CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation)

CPR is a critical first aid technique used to maintain blood circulation in individuals who have stopped breathing or whose heart has stopped beating. The video highlights the American Heart Association's recommendation for everyone to learn CPR, especially chest compressions, as it can be a decisive factor in emergency scenarios.

💡AED (Automated External Defibrillator)

An AED is a portable device that can diagnose life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias and treat them through defibrillation, the application of an electric shock to restore the heart's normal rhythm. The script mentions the presence of AEDs in various branch locations, underscoring the importance of being familiar with their use in cardiac emergencies.

💡PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)

PPE includes a variety of protective clothing and equipment designed to protect the wearer from physical, chemical, and biological hazards. In the script, the use of gloves, safety glasses, and breathing barriers is highlighted as essential precautions when administering first aid to prevent cross-contamination and ensure safety.

💡Burns

Burns are injuries to the skin or other organic tissues primarily caused by heat or chemicals, and sometimes electricity or sunlight. The video script categorizes burns into degrees and types, detailing the specific first aid measures for each, such as cooling, application of burn cream, and the necessity of medical attention for severe cases.

💡Shock

Shock is a life-threatening condition characterized by a sudden drop in blood flow throughout the body, resulting in inadequate blood supply to the organs. The script describes the signs of shock and the immediate actions to take, such as calling 911 and elevating the feet, to stabilize the victim.

💡Allergic Reactions

Allergic reactions are the immune system's responses to foreign substances, which can range from mild to severe. The video script discusses the signs of severe allergic reactions and the importance of calling 911 and identifying if the person has an EpiPen, illustrating the urgency and potential severity of such reactions.

💡Nosebleed

A nosebleed, or epistaxis, is the loss of blood from the nose. The script provides instructions on how to manage a nosebleed by tilting the head forward and applying pressure to the nostrils, demonstrating a common first aid procedure for a frequent but sometimes alarming occurrence.

💡Eye Injury

Eye injuries can occur from foreign substances or chemicals entering the eye, causing potential damage. The video emphasizes the policy of wearing protective eyewear and the steps to take if an eye injury occurs, such as flushing the eye with water and seeking immediate medical attention.

💡Sprain

A sprain is an injury to a ligament, the tissue that connects bones in a joint. The script explains the R.I.C.E. method (Rest, Ice, Compress, Elevate) for treating minor sprains and the need for medical evaluation in more severe cases, highlighting a common sports and workplace injury.

💡Poisoning

Poisoning refers to harm caused by the ingestion, inhalation, or contact with toxic substances. The video script outlines the steps to take in cases of suspected poisoning, including contacting poison control and following specific first aid procedures depending on the route of exposure, emphasizing the need for swift action.

Highlights

Basic first aid can be critical in life-threatening situations, including knowing how to treat burns, cuts, and insect stings.

Remaining calm and assessing the situation is crucial when providing first aid to stabilize a person in distress.

First aid kits are essential for treating minor injuries and providing temporary relief until professional help arrives.

Service Sanitation employees should be familiar with the locations of first aid kits and AEDs in their workplace.

Proper hygiene, including handwashing and using disinfectant wipes, is the first step in administering first aid.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as gloves and safety glasses is necessary to ensure safety during first aid.

Proper disposal of contaminated items and handwashing after first aid administration prevent infection.

CPR is a vital technique for emergencies like heart attacks, with hands-only CPR recommended for the untrained.

The ABCs of CPR (Airway, Breathing, and Circulation) help guide the steps to take during resuscitation.

Shock is a serious condition requiring immediate attention, with signs including clammy skin and rapid breathing.

Minor cuts and abrasions should be cleaned with antiseptic and bandaged if bleeding occurs.

Major external bleeding requires emergency medical treatment and pressure application until help arrives.

Animal and human bites need immediate cleaning and potential emergency care if the wound is severe.

Insect stings and bites may require medical attention if they cause severe reactions like difficulty breathing.

Allergic reactions can be life-threatening and require prompt recognition and calling 911 for severe symptoms.

Nosebleeds should be managed by leaning forward and applying pressure to the nostrils to stop bleeding.

Burns are categorized by degrees and require specific treatments based on their severity.

Eye injuries need immediate flushing with water and medical attention to prevent further damage.

Sprains should be treated with the R.I.C.E. method (Rest, Ice, Compress, Elevate) for effective recovery.

Broken bones require immobilization and immediate medical attention to ensure proper healing.

Head injuries are serious and need careful handling, with signs of concussion warranting 911 contact.

Poisoning is a critical situation requiring immediate contact with poison control and following specific first aid steps.

Seizures need a calm response, with first aid focused on keeping the person safe until the seizure ends.

The Heimlich maneuver is a critical technique for dislodging objects causing choking and requires specific steps based on the victim's condition.

Dental injuries require immediate action, including rinsing the tooth and attempting reinsertion or storage in milk/water before seeing a dentist.

Transcripts

In this video we’ll learn how accidents can happen at any time and how being prepared

by knowing basic first aid could mean the difference between life and death.

Basic first aid is being able to provide basic medical care to someone who is experiencing

a sudden injury or illness. It often comes in forms such as treatment to burns, cuts,

or even insect stings; but could also consist of providing support to someone in the middle

of a medical emergency. In these scenarios, it’s important to remain calm, assess the

situation, and work to stabilize the person.

Remain Calm: When administering aid, it’s important that

you always remain calm so can you think clearly and assess the situation while comforting

the person in distress.

Assess the Situation: After you take a deep breath, it’s important

to assess the situation to see if basic aid is required or if emergency medical attention

is required. Stabilize:

Use your knowledge and basic aid skills to stabilize the injury. If basic aid isn’t

working, reassess your approach and provide basic care until emergency help arrives.

When you think of first aid, one of the first things that comes to mind is a first aid kit.

The first aid kits contain the proper equipment needed to treat most minor injuries. While

most of the supplies are not enough to treat major medical emergencies, they can often

provide temporary relief until medical professionals arrive to help.

As an employee of Service Sanitation, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the

locations of these boxes should they ever be required. These boxes can often be found

inside a garage bay and inside each of the branch offices. Service technicians should

also have a small first aid kit with them at all times in case of minor injuries.

In addition to a first aid kit, several of our branch locations are equipped with an

automated external defibrillator,(AED). This medical device is designed to analyze heart

rhythms and deliver an electric shock to victims experiencing cardiac arrest. Should you ever

have a need to use this device, it’s important that you quickly contact 911 and then find

someone who is trained and comfortable with using a defibrillator.

When administering first aid, it’s important that you take proper precautions to ensure

your safety and the safety of the person you are caring for. This includes washing your

hands, wearing proper PPE, and disposing of any clothing, bandages, or protective equipment

that may have been contaminated. The first step to administering first aid

is proper hygiene, best achieved by washing your hands. When washing your hands, try to

use hot water and anti-bacterial soap if available. If unavailable, consider using a disinfectant

wipe, which can often be found in a standard first aid kit.

After washing your hands, you’ll want to protect yourself and the person you are caring

for by wearing proper personal protective equipment, known as PPE. The most common first

aid PPE includes, but is not limited to gloves safety glasses and breathing barriers should

CPR be necessary. .

Practicing good housekeeping and trash disposal are important after administering first aid.

This includes the disposal of clothing, bandages, or PPE that may have contacted blood or bodily

fluids. For contaminated clothing, it’s important to either dispose of them or wash

them immediately to reduce the risk of infection through the skin. Used bandages, PPE, sharp

objects or needles, should be immediately disposed of using a biohazard bag or sharps

container. When handling these objects, always follow the non-pumpable items and service

procedures for proper disposal. After disposing of these objects, be sure to wash your hands

once again using hot water and antibacterial soap for a minimum of 20 seconds.

Common, everyday injuries and illnesses that you may experience while working in the field

may include cuts, abrasions, burns, back pains, hypothermia, difficulty breathing, eye injuries,

allergic reactions, heatstroke, chest pains, head injuries, or event poison ingestion.

Each of these potential injuries or illnesses will often require immediate medical attention.

If one of these injuries happens to you or someone around you, remember to remain calm,

assess the situation, and do you best to stabilize the injury. If you’re unable to stabilize

the injury, contact 911 immediately.

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation also known as CPR is a lifesaving technique useful in many

emergencies, including heart attack, shock or even drowning, in which someone's breathing

or heartbeat has stopped. The American Heart Association recommends that everyone, including

untrained bystanders, learn the basics of CPR, especially chest compressions. It's better

to do something with little knowledge than nothing at all. Remember, the difference between

doing something and doing nothing could be someone's life.

Before you begin, it’s important to make sure the environment is safe, and the person

is indeed unconscious. If there are two people nearby, have one person call 911 and immediately

get an AED defibrillator while the other proceeds with CPR. If you’re alone, call 911 first

and then proceed with CPR, if you are comfortable doing so.

Untrained: According the American Heart Association, if you're not trained in CPR, it’s recommended

that you provide hands-only CPR. That means uninterrupted chest compressions of 100 to

120 per minute until paramedics arrive (described in more detail below). Rescue breathing is

NOT recommended without proper training.

Trained: If you're well-trained and confident in your ability, check to see if there is

a pulse and breathing. If there is no breathing or a pulse within 10 seconds, begin chest

compressions. Start CPR with 30 chest compressions before giving two rescue breaths.

Trained but rusty: If you've previously received CPR training, but you're not confident in

your abilities, do chest compressions only at a rate of 100 to 120 a minute.

The American Heart Association uses the letters A-B-C standing for airways, breathing, and

circulation to help people remember the correct order to perform the steps of CPR

Before you consider CPR, make sure the person has an open airway and isn’t choking. To

open their airway, you’ll need to tilt their head back slightly and life their chin. This

action shifts the tongue away from the back of the throat and allows air to reach the

lungs. Next you’ll need to check for breathing.

With your face turned towards the person’s torso and positioned right above the person’s

mouth, listen for breathing and look to see if the chest is rising and falling. If you

see an infrequent gasp of air, the person is not breathing normally.

After checking for a pulse and breathing, check for a pulse by feeling for 5-10 seconds

at a time on the victim’s neck or wrist. If there is no pulse, contact 911 and begin

chest compressions. If there is a AED Defibrillator on site, have someone locate the device and

someone who is trained to operate it. To perform chest compressions, place the heel of one

hand on lower part of victim's sternum. With your other hand directly on top of firsthand,

depress the sternum 1.5 to 2 inches. You’ll then need to perform 15 compressions

to every 2 breaths. Check for return of pulse every minute. Continue uninterrupted until

advanced life support is available.

Shock is a life-threatening condition brought upon by the sudden drop in blood flow throughout

the body. When a person is in shock, his or her organs are not getting enough blood or

oxygen. Signs someone may be in shock include clammy skin, bluish lips, rapid breathing,

a change in mental status, or a sense of extreme dizziness and fatigue.

If you come across a coworker who may be in shock, immediately call 911 and encourage

them to lie down with their feet elevated. If they feel nauseous, have trouble breathing,

or you suspect a spinal injury, encourage them to lie flat and stay very still. Keep

calm and encourage the person to remain calm as well.

Minor cuts and abrasions are often the most common injuries in the workplace. Initial

treatment for minor cuts or abrasions typically require cleansing the wound with an antiseptic

or soap and water.

When treating someone else’s wounds, always check for allergies before administering any

creams or ointments. If all checks out, apply a dressing or bandage if the wound is bleeding.

If there is major external bleeding and simple bandaging isn’t working, the patient will

most likely require emergency medical treatment and you need to call 911 immediately. While

waiting for emergency medical attention, it’s recommend that you apply pressure to the wound

to help control the bleeding. It can also be helpful to elevate the injured part of

the body unless a break or fracture is suspected. In which case, it’s best to comfort the

person and monitor for symptoms of shock.

Although highly unlikely, being bitten by an animal (or even a hostile person) is a

potential risk while working in the field. If either of these were to occur, the first

action would be to evade the danger, then assess the severity of the wound.

If minor, do your best to cleanse the wound with soap and water for at least 5 minutes.

Then apply a dressing to control bleeding.

If the wound appears to be severe, or the bite was by a hostile person, contact 911

to inform them of the situation so they can quickly dispatch the proper authorities. Continue

to apply pressure to the wound until help arrives and proper treatment can be applied.

Most insect stings can be mild, causing minor pain, redness, itching, or swelling. Also,

mosquito bites can sometimes carry the West Nile virus and ticks can carry lyme disease.

To treat a mild insect sting, first find safe area to evade the predator and quickly pull

the stinger out. Never attempt to pinch the area where a stinger is present, as this can

further irritate the bite. Once the stinger is out, cleanse the area with soap and water

and apply a cool compress using ice, water, and a clean towel. This will help reduce pain

and potential swelling.

If the sting is on an arm or leg, try to elevate it to help with the pain. Once home, apply

hydrocortisone cream, calamine lotion, or even baking soda paste to the bite. Continue

to do this for several days until your pain and irritation go away. Taking an antihistamine

may also help reduce the itching.

If the sting does not disappear after a day or two, you should consult a physician. Always

contact emergency services if you experience: difficulty breathing, swelling of the lips,

eyelids or throat, dizziness, faintness or confusion, rapid heartbeat, hives, nausea,

cramps, or vomiting immediately following an insect sting.

On occasion, some stings or bites can cause a more severe, or allergic reaction. Bees,

fire ants, and scorpions, are most likely to cause these more severe reactions. Other

common allergic reactions can be caused by skin contact, ingestion, or inhalation. Allergic

reactions can take up to an hour before the patient begins to see symptoms such as shortness

of breath, weakness, anxiety, nausea, rash or hives, abdominal cramps, loss of consciousness,

and/ or shock.

If you, or someone around you, suffers from a severe allergic reaction while working in

the field, call 911 as soon as possible. While waiting for help to arrive, ask the person

if they carry an EpiPen to treat the reaction. If the person has one, ask if they need help

with the injection. Most EpiPen injections are done by pressing it against the thigh

and holding it in place for a few seconds.

If the person is experiencing severe swelling, you may want to encourage them to loosen any

tight clothing and offer them a blanket to cover themselves. It’s also recommended

that you never give them anything to drink. If the person begins to vomit, have them sit

upright and in a safe position to prevent choking. If they show no signs of breathing,

coughing, or moving, call 911 and begin chest compressions if comfortable doing so.

The nose is full of blood vessels and is located in a vulnerable position as it protrudes from

the face. As a result, any sort of trauma to the face can often cause a nosebleed.

To manage a nosebleed, it’s recommended to first sit up and tilt your head slightly

forward. Do not attempt to tilt your head back as this allows blood to run back into

the sinuses and throat. This can also cause gagging or inhaling of blood.

With your head tilted slightly forward, use your pointer finger and thumb to apply pressure

to the soft part of nostrils below the bridge of the nose for at least 10 minutes. After

10 minutes, release the pressure on the nostrils and check to see if the bleeding has stopped.

If the bleeding has stopped, don’t attempt to sniff or blow your nose for at least 15

minutes. If bleeding continues, seek medical assistance immediately

Despite countless safety measures and guidelines available in the workplace today, occupational

burns continue to account for a considerable proportion of all burns reported in the ER.

thermal (or heat) burns, chemical burns, electrical burns, and sun burns, are the common types

of burns most people experience. Each of these different types of burns can cause different

levels of severity and should be treated accordingly

There are three classifications, or degrees, of burns one can experience:

First Degree Burns: First-degree burns only damage the top layer

of skin. These types of burns are often painful and can cause minor swelling. These types

of burns often occur from mild sunburns. Treatment for first degree burns typically require immediate

cooling of the affected area by use of cold water and ice. After a few minutes of cooling,

dry the affected area and apply burn cream to relieve some pain and prevent infections.

Finally, apply a dry sterile dressing around the affected area.

Second Degree Burns: Second degree burns damage both the inner

and outer layers of skin and are significantly more painful than first degree burns. This

type of burn will cause the skin to become dark red and will sometimes cause blisters.

If any blisters break open, treat them with antiseptic and a dry sterile dressing as quickly

as possible to avoid infection. If the blisters stay closed, apply a cool wet dressing to

soothe the pain. Do not open the blisters!

Third-degree burns: Third degree burns damage both the inner and

outer lays of skin as well as nerves, blood vessels, muscle, and sometimes even the bones

below. These areas quite often will become charred black or white. Third degree burns

are always considered a medical emergency and can only be wrapped in a dry sterile dressing

until emergency treatment occurs. In extreme cases, heat shields and/or fire blankets can

also be wrapped around the victim to prevent any further burn progression. They can also

ease pain and protect against contamination.

Eye injuries are a common occurrence in the workplace and often occur when a foreign substance

enters the eye causing an eye penetrating injury.

Eye injuries can be extremely painful and quite debilitating. Because of this, we have

implemented a strict policy that requires ALL employees to wear protective eyewear at

ALL times when servicing equipment, when contact with waste or chemicals may occur, and when

using hand and power tools.

If a foreign substance or chemical were to ever enter you eye, it should be flushed immediately

for at least 15 minutes. Eye wash stations are installed at various locations around

each branch. Please familiarize yourself with these locations should it ever be required.

When washing, remember to avoid rinsing water into the direction of the other eye and never

attempt to remove any embedded objects, as this can cause more damage to the eye. If

the pain persists, cover the eye with a paper cup, sterile dressing, or even a wrap and

quickly seek medical attention. If a chemical were to enter the eye, it’s important to

bring the SDS sheet with you to the hospital or urgent care. You should also avoid laying

anything flat on the eye that could cause additional pressure. For severe eye injuries,

consider covering both eyes as this will prevent you from trying to look around with the undamaged

eye.

Remember to always remain calm and call 911 if medical attention is needed. Anytime any

object enters the eyes it is strongly suggested to get checked by the clinic, regardless of

the severity.

Employees who perform rigorous and repetitive tasks with excessive force in awkward positions

are often at a higher risker for workplace sprains and should always proceed with extreme

caution.

So, what is a sprain? A sprain is the tearing of fibers from a ligament that hold two bones

together. This can often occur in the legs, arms or neck. For minor sprains, always follow

the R.I.C.E. method of recovery. This stands for Rest, Ice, Compress, and Elevate. For

more serious sprains, or possible breaks or fractures, seek medical attention for further

evaluation. Once a sprain occurs, it’s highly recommended

to allow the sprain to rest and avoid putting any weight on the injury. This is best by

using a sling or brace, depending on the where the injury is located.

When resting, it’s important that you immediately ice the sprain for fifteen to twenty minutes,

to limit swelling. It’s also recommended to continue icing the injured area four to

eight times a day until swelling improves.

After icing, compress the injury by wrapping it with an elastic bandage. Remember to wrap

it tight, but not too tight as this can cause more swelling to the affected area or cut

off circulation. Signs that the bandage is too tight include numbness, tingling, or increased

swelling in the area below the bandage.

Once you’ve taken the steps to properly rest, ice, and compress the sprain, elevate

the injury above your heart if, you’re able to, by sitting or lying down. This will help

limit additional swelling that often occurs after a serious sprain. Using furniture and

pillows can be the easiest way to achieve this.

Broken bones are serious, excruciating, and can take an extensive period of time to heal.

If you or another person around you has encountered a broken bone (or fracture), control any bleeding

that may have occurred using a sterile bandage, cloth, or in emergency situations a piece

of clothing.

You’ll then need to immobilize the injured area by using a splint or sling and ice it

for 10 minutes at a time. When dealing with a broken bone or fracture, medical attention

is almost always needed. If you’re able, do your best to comfort the injured individual,

encourage them to rest, and offer to drive them to the hospital. If a neck or back injury

is suspected, call 911 and keep the person immobile until emergency services arrive and

are able to transport them to the hospital.

Head injuries are one of the most serious types of injuries in the workplace and should

be handled with extreme caution. First aid response will often vary based on the symptoms

of the person and the severity of the injury.

First, evaluate the initial level of consciousness. If any loss of consciousness occurs or was

present at any time, contact 911 immediately. For severe injuries, keep the person as still

as possible. If there appears to be any bleeding, apply firm pressure directly to the wound.

If a skull fracture is suspected, never apply pressure. Continue to monitor breathing and

alertness until emergency services arrive.

For minor injuries, do your best to comfort the individual and encourage them to lie down

while icing the injury to prevent swelling. Continue to monitor the individual for at

least 30 minutes. Watch for any signs of dizziness, vomiting, and changes in levels of consciousness

as this is a sign of possible concussion. If this occurs, contact 911 immediately.

Did you know a worker dies of toxic exposure in the workplace every 30 seconds? In situations

where you think poisoning may be imminent, it’s important that you contact poison control

immediately. If you come across someone around you who appears to have been poisoned, contact

emergency services immediately. It can also be life-saving to acquire the SDS sheet of

the product that may have caused the poisoning.

In addition to calling Poison Control, you can follow these quick life-saving procedures

that can often make a significant impact if followed within seconds to minutes of poison

exposure.

INGESTION: If you suspect poison occurred by ingestion,

immediately encourage the person to drink a small amount of water or milk if the person

is complaining about burning, irritation, or caustic and is conscious, not having convulsions,

and able to swallow. EYE CONTACT:

If you suspect poisoning occurred by entering a person’s eye, quickly remove contact lenses

and flush the eye for at least fifteen to twenty minutes. While flushing the eye, have

someone contact poison control for further instructions. Further examination and medical

attention may be required if pain persists.

SKIN CONTACT: If you suspect poisoning occurred through

the skin, the affected area should be rinsed thoroughly for at least 15 minutes. While

rinsing, contact poison control for further instruction and if any side effect is present

from the contact a medical visit will be required.

INHALATION: If you suspect poisoning occurred through

inhalation, remove the person from the exposed area if it can be done safely. Once moved

to a safe location, contact poison control for further recommendations.

Although many individuals who have seizures do not require first aid or assistance, an

employee who might need assistance may want to work with their manager or HR to create

a plan of action that includes information such as: who to contact in an emergency, warning

signs of a possible seizure, how and when to provide assistance, and when to call an

ambulance, etc.

Since a seizure cannot be stopped, first aid is often aimed at keeping the person safe

until the seizure stops on its own. Should you come across someone having a seizure,

always remain calm, loosen anything around the person's neck, do not restrain them, clear

the area around them, and stay with them until the seizure stops.

If the seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes, the person does not wake up, or the person

has never had a seizure before, contact 911 immediately and stay with the person until

the proper authorities arrive.

Each year, many people die from choking on objects that obstruct their airways and cause

suffocation. Choking is in fact the fourth leading cause of unintentional death. However,

there is a simple technique to help expel a trapped object from another person’s airway.

You can even use a version of this technique on yourself.

This technique is called the Heimlich maneuver, or abdominal thrusts. Abdominal thrusts lift

your diaphragm and expel air from your lungs. This causes the foreign object to be expelled

from your airway.

The steps you need to perform a Heimlich maneuver depend on who you’re aiding. Regardless

of whom you perform the maneuver on, that person should still get medical help afterward.

This is to ensure no physical damage has occurred to their throat and airways.

1. Stand behind the person. Place one foot slightly in front of the other for balance.

Footing and balance are extremely important because if you cannot dislodge the object

they will lose consciousness, you need to prepare to guide the person to the ground

without harming them or yourself. Wrap your arms around the waist. Tip the person forward

slightly. 2. Make a fist with one hand. Position it

slightly above the person's navel, but below the rib cage.

3. Grasp the fist with the other hand. Pull hard into the abdomen with a quick, upward

thrust — as if trying to lift the person up.

4. Perform between six and 10 abdominal thrusts until the blockage is dislodged.

5. If you are the only rescuer, perform abdominal thrusts before calling 911 or your local emergency

number for help. If another person is available, have that person call for help while you perform

first aid. If the person becomes unconscious, perform standard cardiopulmonary resuscitation

(CPR) if properly trained. If untrained, perform chest compressions if you are comfortable

doing so.

Call 911 or your local emergency number immediately. Although you will be unable to effectively

talk, you can still perform abdominal thrusts to dislodge the item.

1. Place a fist slightly above your navel. 2. Grasp your fist with the other hand and

bend over a hard surface — a countertop or chair will do.

3. Shove your fist inward and upward.

To perform the Heimlich maneuver on someone who pregnant, or you cannot get your arms

around: 1. Place the person against a wall and face

them. 2. Position your hands a little bit higher

than with a normal Heimlich maneuver, at the base of the breastbone, just above the joining

of the lowest ribs. 3. Proceed as with the Heimlich maneuver,

pressing hard into the abdomen, with a quick thrust.

4. Repeat until the food or other blockage is dislodged. If the person becomes unconscious,

follow the next steps. To perform the Heimlich maneuver on an unconscious

person 1. Lower the person on his or her back onto

the floor, arms to the side. 2. Clear the airway. If a blockage is visible

at the back of the throat or high in the throat, reach a finger into the mouth and sweep out

the cause of the blockage. Do not try a finger sweep if you can't see the object. Be careful

not to push the food or object deeper into the airway, which can happen easily in young

children. 3. if the object remains lodged and the person

does not respond after you take the above measures, begin chest compressions only. The

chest compressions used in CPR may dislodge the object. Remember to recheck the mouth

periodically. To perform the Heimlich maneuver on an infant

younger than 1 year 1. Assume a seated position and hold the infant

face down on your forearm, which is resting on your thigh. Support the infant's head and

neck with your hand and place the head lower than the trunk.

2. Thump the infant gently but firmly five times on the middle of the back using the

heel of your hand. The combination of gravity and the back blows should release the blocking

object. Keep your fingers pointed up to avoid hitting the infant in the back of the head.

3. Turn the infant faceup on your forearm, resting on your thigh with the head lower

than the trunk if the infant still is not breathing. Using two fingers placed at the

center of the infant's breastbone, give five quick chest compressions. Press down about

1 1/2 inches, and let the chest rise again in between each compression.

4. Repeat the back blows and chest compressions until if breathing resumes.

In all of the mentioned choking situations, 911 needs to be called as soon as possible.

Even if the obstruction is easily dislodged by one of the mentioned processes, the person

should always be checked out by medical personnel.

A dental injury is considered any trauma that has occurred to a permanent tooth. If a person

has suffered from a dental injury or a tooth has been displaced, the person should rinse

the tooth with milk or water and try to place it back in its original location. If it cannot

be placed back in its socket, then place it in warm water or milk. Get to a dentist as

soon as possible in any dental emergency situation. The most important variable affecting the

success of a reimplantation is the amount of time the tooth is out of its socket. Teeth

re-implanted within one hour of the accident frequently reattach to their sockets.