First Aid – Policy and Procedures
When a medical emergency or injury occurs, knowing what to do and being able to react quickly is critical to limiting the severity of the incident. Proper first aid training provides individuals with the confidence and skills they need to address an emergency, prevent further injury, and a save a life. In extreme cases, equipping employees with first aid training could mean the difference between life and death.
Although all jurisdictions in the United States and Canada require workplaces to provide a first aid kit, a first aid attendant, and training, the requirements vary depending on the nature of the work, the number of employees on site, and the location of the worksite. All oil and gas work in is considered high hazard work and it’s highly recommended that all employees working onsite receive first aid training. This guarantees that first aid is readily available and accessible at all times, regardless of which employees are on shift. If providing first aid training all employees is not possible, it’s important to understand the requirements for the state or province you’re operating in to ensure compliance with their standards.
Check Out: OSHA Letter of Interpretation on First Aid Training
Having employees properly training in first aid is one component of a comprehensive First Aid Plan. A First Aid Plan sets out expectations and requirements regarding first aid services, equipment, supplies, records, communication, and transportation. Developing a First Aid Plan requires an assessment of the potential workplace hazards and the types of injuries and illnesses likely to occur. Consider information such as the number of workers, the type of work, and available medical treatment. When developing your First Aid Plan, you should always consider the worst-case scenario.
In summary, your First Aid Plan should include:
Creating a comprehensive first aid policy is crucial for any business to ensure the safety and well-being of employees and visitors. Here are essential components that a business should include in its first aid policy:
- Policy Statement: Clearly state the company’s commitment to providing a safe and healthy workplace, including provisions for first aid assistance in case of injuries or illnesses.
- Responsibilities: Define the roles and responsibilities of designated first aiders, employees, and management concerning first aid procedures. Specify who is responsible for maintaining first aid kits and equipment.
- First Aid Training: Outline the requirements for first aid training, including the type of training needed, how often it should be renewed, and who should undergo the training. Ensure that there are an adequate number of trained first aiders based on the size and nature of the business.
- First Aid Supplies: Specify the contents of first aid kits, their locations, and how often they are checked and restocked. Ensure that first aid kits are easily accessible and clearly labeled.
- Emergency Procedures: Provide step-by-step instructions for dealing with common workplace injuries and medical emergencies. Include procedures for reporting incidents and contacting emergency services.
- Communication: Establish a clear communication protocol for informing employees about the location of first aid facilities, the identity of first aiders, and the procedure to follow in case of an emergency.
- Record Keeping: Outline the procedures for documenting and reporting first aid incidents. Maintain records of incidents, first aid treatments provided, and any follow-up actions taken.
- Special Considerations: Address any special considerations related to specific workplace hazards or employees with known medical conditions. Ensure that there are appropriate first aid measures in place for unique risks.
- Review and Training Updates: Specify that the first aid policy will be regularly reviewed and updated to align with changes in the workplace, staff turnover, or changes in regulations. Include a schedule for regular first aid refresher training.
- Legal Compliance: Ensure that the first aid policy complies with local, state, and national regulations regarding workplace safety and health, including any specific first aid requirements.
- Accessibility: Ensure that the policy is readily accessible to all employees. Consider displaying summarized versions of the policy in common areas and distributing copies to new employees during orientation.
By including these components in a first aid policy, a business can create a safer work environment, respond effectively to emergencies, and promote the health and well-being of everyone in the workplace.
It is the role of managers and supervisors to understand the First Aid Plan and their accountabilities, as well as making sure first aid information is provided to all employees.
Regular reviews are an important part of maintaining your First Aid Plan. Emergency drills and exercises can help you make sure that your plan will work if an emergency does occur, and first aid kits and facilities should be reviewed on a regular basis. If an incident requiring first aid does occur, this is an opportunity for you to evaluate the effectiveness of your first aid plan and make any necessary changes or improvements.
Check Out: First Aid Training and Kit Requirements
Download and view the First Aid Policy and Procedures below:
