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Medical and first aid
During an emergency, the efficiency of response is dependent on prior planning and training. Management's obligation and employee participation are central to the action plan. The emergency response plan should include all likely emergencies that can arise at the workplace. The emergency action should be available in a written form for the benefit of the employees and must be kept at the workplace. It should be reassessed and updated at regular intervals.
The plan should include provisions for medical assistance and first aid in the event of an unforeseen mishap at the accident site. It should also stress on the necessity for adequate training to employees so that they can administer the initial first aid. Injury to employees can occur in workplaces and arrangements must be kept for proper medical care and first aid for alleviating the suffering of the employees in the initial stages. If the injury is minor proper first aid is necessary for effectively dealing with the situation. Workplaces should keep in stock some general medicines that can be used during an emergency or when a person suddenly falls sick. It is imperative for employers to keep a record of the past history of major illnesses of workers so that proper action can be taken during the time of exigency.
Arrangements should be made so that a qualified physician is available when person falls sick and is need of immediate medical attention. If the condition of an employee is serious and there is need for immediate hospitalization of the said worker provisions should be kept for easy availability of ambulances.
However it is imperative that employees should be trained with regard to the proper administration of first aid so that the harm or damage to a worker is kept at a minimum.
Time-a crucial factor
- During an emergency, time is a crucial factor in reducing injuries and damages. .
- Workplaces that are not located close to an infirmary, clinic or hospital should have an individual who can handle emergency situations in the event of an employee suffering an injury or afflicted with sudden illness. .
- It is imperative that workplaces must have medical personnel available for suggestion and consultation.
- A written medical guide on how to tackle difficult situations arising out of a crisis should be made accessible to employees.
Apart from having first aid provisions for use by trained personnel in a work place, emergency phone numbers should be displayed at prominent places near or on telephones, and provisions for prearranged ambulance services should be in place.
Proper medical care should be made available to workers exposed to potentially hazardous substances. Adequate medical attention should be given to individuals who may be find themselves in hazardous circumstances, such as chemical splashes, falling debris, flying particles, unidentified atmospheres with insufficient oxygen or poisonous gases, fires, and live electrical wiring.