Workplace First Aid Requirements and Emergency Medical Services
Document Number: [SWP-NUMBER]
Revision Date: [DATE]
Next Review Date: [NEXT REVIEW DATE]
Department: [DEPARTMENT NAME]
1. Scope
This safe work procedure outlines the requirements for workplace first aid and emergency medical services as per the Alberta Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Code. It details the necessary first aid personnel, equipment, and procedures to ensure the health and safety of workers in various work environments.
2. Definitions
Basic First Aider A worker who has successfully completed a basic first aid training course from an approved training agency. [9]
Intermediate First Aider A worker who has successfully completed an intermediate first aid training course from an approved training agency. [6]
Advanced First Aider An emergency medical responder, primary care paramedic, or a person who holds a certificate in advanced first aid from an approved training agency. [7] [8]
Close Work Site A work site that is located within 20 minutes of a health care facility. [1]
Distant Work Site A work site that is located between 20 and 40 minutes from a health care facility. [5]
Isolated Work Site A work site that is located more than 40 minutes from a health care facility. [1]
Health Care Facility A facility where medical treatment is provided by qualified health professionals. [1]
High Hazard Work Work activities that pose a significant risk of serious injury or illness. [1]
3. Responsibilities
3.1 Supervisors
- Ensure that the appropriate number of first aiders are designated and available at the work site as per Schedule 2, Tables 5, 6, or 7 of the OHS Code. [2]
- Provide and maintain the required first aid supplies, equipment, and kits as specified in Schedule 2, Tables 4 to 7 of the OHS Code. [4]
- Ensure that an emergency communication system is in place for workers to summon first aiders. [2]
- Develop and implement a plan to transport ill or injured workers to the nearest health care facility, considering the distance and potential injuries. [2]
- Ensure that first aiders have successfully completed training in first aid from an approved training agency. [2]
3.2 Workers
- Report any illness or injury to the supervisor or employer as soon as possible. [3]
- Cooperate with first aiders and follow their instructions during first aid administration.
- Participate in first aid training programs as required.
3.3 Health and Safety Representative
- Assist in the development and implementation of first aid procedures and emergency response plans.
- Monitor the availability and condition of first aid supplies and equipment.
- Promote first aid awareness and training among workers.
4. Potential Hazards and Risks
| Hazard | Risk | Control Measures |
|---|---|---|
| Delay in providing first aid | Exacerbation of injury or illness, potential for long-term health effects | Ensure adequate number of trained first aiders are available at all times. Implement a system for rapid communication and response to emergencies. |
| Lack of appropriate first aid supplies and equipment | Inability to effectively treat injuries or illnesses | Maintain fully stocked and regularly inspected first aid kits. Ensure that specialized equipment, such as stretchers and oxygen units, are readily available. |
| Inadequate training of first aiders | Improper administration of first aid, potential for further injury | Provide comprehensive first aid training to designated first aiders. Ensure that first aiders maintain their certifications through regular refresher courses. |
| Lack of emergency transportation | Delay in transporting injured workers to a health care facility | Develop and implement an emergency transportation plan. Ensure that vehicles are readily available and equipped to transport injured workers safely. |
| Exposure to bloodborne pathogens | Transmission of infectious diseases | Provide appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to first aiders, such as gloves and eye protection. Follow proper procedures for handling and disposing of contaminated materials. |
| Unclear communication during emergencies | Confusion and delays in response | Establish clear communication protocols for emergencies. Ensure that all workers are aware of how to summon first aiders and emergency medical services. |
| Work site is far from medical assistance | Increased time to receive medical care, potential for serious health consequences | Provide enhanced first aid equipment and training for isolated work sites. Establish communication systems to contact emergency services. |
5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
All first aiders must use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when administering first aid to protect themselves from potential hazards.
- Gloves: Non-latex gloves to protect against exposure to bloodborne pathogens.
- Eye Protection: Safety glasses or a face shield to protect against splashes of blood or other bodily fluids.
- CPR Mask: A CPR mask to provide a barrier between the first aider and the injured worker during CPR.
Inspect all PPE for damage or defects before each use. Replace any damaged or defective PPE immediately.
6. Equipment and Tools
All equipment and tools used in the administration of first aid must be regularly inspected and maintained in good working order.
- First Aid Kit: A CSA Standard Z1220-17 Type 1, 2, or 3 first aid kit, depending on the number of workers at the work site and the hazard level. The kit should be equipped in accordance with CSA Standard Z1220-17, First aid kits for the workplace. [4]
- Stretcher: A stretcher for transporting injured workers who are unable to walk.
- Splints: Splints for immobilizing injured limbs.
- Oxygen Unit: A portable oxygen therapy unit for providing supplemental oxygen to workers who are having difficulty breathing.
- Emergency Communication System: A means of communication, such as a cell phone or two-way radio, for contacting emergency services.
Ensure that all first aid equipment, including stretchers, splints, and oxygen units, are inspected regularly for damage or defects. Remove any damaged or defective equipment from service.
7. Pre-Job Requirements
7.1 Training and Competency
First Aid Training: All designated first aiders must complete a first aid training course from an approved training agency. The training must meet the requirements of CSA Standard Z1210-17, First aid training for the workplace - Curriculum and quality management for training agencies. [4]
7.2 Pre-Job Briefing
Pre-Job Briefing: Before commencing any work activity, conduct a pre-job briefing to discuss potential hazards, first aid procedures, and emergency response plans. Ensure that all workers are aware of their roles and responsibilities. [2]
7.3 Work Area Preparation
Work Area Preparation: Ensure that the work area is clean, dry, and free of hazards. Provide adequate lighting and ventilation. Ensure that first aid supplies and equipment are readily accessible. [4]
8. Safe Work Procedure Steps
- Assess the Situation: Before providing first aid, assess the situation to ensure your own safety and the safety of others. Identify any hazards and take steps to eliminate or control them.
- Provide First Aid: Administer first aid to the injured worker(s) according to your level of training. Follow established first aid procedures and protocols.
- Call for Emergency Medical Services: If the injury or illness is serious, call for emergency medical services (911). Provide the dispatcher with the location of the work site, the nature of the injury or illness, and the number of injured workers.
- Transport the Injured Worker: If the injured worker needs to be transported to a health care facility, follow the established emergency transportation plan. Ensure that the worker is accompanied by a first aider.
- Document the Incident: After the incident, document the first aid that was provided and any other relevant information. Provide this information to the supervisor or employer.
9. Precautions and Safety Measures
- Ensure that first aiders are aware of the location of the nearest health care facility and the fastest route to get there.
- Provide first aiders with a means of communication, such as a cell phone or two-way radio, to contact emergency services.
- Establish a system for tracking and maintaining first aid certifications.
- Review and update first aid procedures and emergency response plans regularly.
10. Emergency Procedures
10.1 General Emergency Response
In the event of a workplace emergency, follow these general steps: 1. Assess the situation and ensure your own safety. 2. Provide immediate first aid to the injured worker(s). 3. Call for emergency medical services (911) if necessary. 4. Notify the supervisor and other relevant personnel. 5. Follow the established emergency response plan.
10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios
- Worker collapses and is unresponsive.: 1. Assess the worker for responsiveness, breathing, and pulse. 2. Call for emergency medical services (911). 3. Begin CPR if the worker is not breathing and has no pulse. 4. Continue CPR until emergency medical services arrive.
- Worker suffers a serious laceration with significant bleeding.: 1. Apply direct pressure to the wound with a clean cloth. 2. Elevate the injured limb above the heart. 3. Call for emergency medical services (911) if bleeding is severe or uncontrollable. 4. Continue applying pressure until emergency medical services arrive.
- Worker experiences a chemical exposure.: 1. Immediately flush the affected area with water for at least 15 minutes. 2. Remove contaminated clothing. 3. Seek medical attention.
10.3 Emergency Contact Information
Emergency contact information should include local emergency services (911), the nearest hospital, and company contacts.
11. Incident Reporting and Investigation
All workplace illnesses and injuries must be reported to the supervisor or employer as soon as possible. The employer must record the incident in a record kept for that purpose, including the worker's name, a description of the illness or injury, the first aid given, the name and qualifications of the person giving first aid, the date and time of the incident, where the incident occurred, and the work-related cause of the incident. [3]
Following a workplace illness or injury, an investigation must be conducted to determine the root cause of the incident and to implement corrective actions to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. The investigation should involve the supervisor, the worker, and a health and safety representative.
Approved by: [NAME AND POSITION]
Date: [APPROVAL DATE]
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