Be Prepared When First Aid is Needed

Every workplace aims for zero accidents but unfortunately, sometimes accidents still occur. During an emergency, seconds count. Having a well-stocked first aid kit and trained employees that know how to respond to an emergency accordingly can mean the difference between a minor injury and a potentially fatal one.

Although it’s important for employees to be aware of what to do during an emergency – it’s even more critical to know what is expected of them.

OSHA’s Best Practices for Workplace First-aid

OSHA has a very specific requirement for first aid standards, per 29 CFR 1910.151. Trained first-aid providers must be at all workplaces of any size if there is no, “infirmary, clinic, or hospital in near proximity to the workplace which is used for the treatment of all injured employees.”

In addition to first-aid requirements of 29 CFR 1910.151, several OSHA standards also require training in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) because sudden cardiac arrest from asphyxiation, electrocution, or exertion may occur. CPR may keep the victim alive until EMS arrives to provide the next level of medical care. However, survival from this kind of care is low, only 5-7%, according to the American Heart Association. The OSHA standards requiring CPR training are found here.

When someone needs first aid, eliminate the guessing work and questions about its placement. By placing first aid safety posters and CPR / first aid signs in your workplace you can ensure everyone will be able to find first aid tools like AEDs and first aid kits when they need them.

First aid posters not only make for a great visual training resource, they also act as a vital reference tool and ensure proper protocols are followed during an emergency.

When to update your first-aid program

The first-aid program should be reviewed periodically to determine if it continues to address the needs of your workplace. Training, supplies, equipment, and first-aid policies should be added or modified to account for changes in:

  • Workplace safety and health hazards
  • Worksite locations
  • Worker schedules since the last program review.

The first-aid training program should be kept up-to-date with current first-aid techniques and knowledge. Outdated training and reference materials should be replaced or removed.

Browse eye-catching first-aid posters at ComplianceSigns.com.