Have you ever had a medical emergency at work?
It’s one of the worst things that can happen in the workplace. While work covers a huge swath of time in your life, it’s important to have some kind of stable routine in the sense that the workplace provides a safe haven from the rigors of normal life.
And when a sudden medical emergency occurs, it can throw your whole day into disarray. How can you prepare for that possibility?
Read on to learn how to manage yourself, your health, and the workforce during a medical emergency.
1. Assembling an Emergency First Aid Kit
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Assembling an emergency first aid kit is an important part of preparing for a medical emergency at work. Employees should be trained in its use, and everyone in the workplace should know where the kit is stored.
The kit should contain basic items such as:
- bandages
- adhesive bandages
- alcohol swabs
- antiseptic wipes
- fire blanket
- scissors
- tweezers
- thermometer
- eye wash
- gloves
- medical reference book
Having the right supplies and prepared staff is crucial for handling a medical emergency response at work.
2. Identifying Common Workplace Emergency Situations
Preparing for a medical emergency should start with recognizing potential, common emergency situations. There are a variety of workplace crises that could occur requiring prompt attention, such as:
- natural disasters
- medical emergencies
- workplace violence
- terrorism
Knowing what to do in the event of a medical emergency is essential. It is beneficial to have a plan in place with clear steps for medical personnel to take, along with having a designated area for medical emergency personnel to assemble.
3. Training Employees on Emergency Protocols
Preparation is key in any emergency situation. Employers can provide employees with the training they need to prepare for unexpected medical emergencies in the workplace.
Training employees on emergency protocols should involve instruction on the importance of having a plan in place, as well as role-playing emergency scenarios to boost preparedness. Proper placement and readiness of emergency supplies should also be discussed.
Additionally, employers should ensure employees are prepared to handle medical emergencies by providing training and certification from MyCPR NOW. Employers should designate an employee or team of employees to be trained in emergency protocol and ready to respond in the event of a medical emergency at work.
4. Selecting a Central Command Center for Emergencies
When selecting a central command center for medical emergencies, you should take into consideration the size of the workplace and the number of people in the building. Consider the safety and security of anyone involved; choose an area far enough away from the source or cause of the emergency.
The room or area should also be large enough to accommodate necessary medical personnel or equipment and a couple of people assisting in the emergency. Have emergency contact information readily available, and make sure the command center is clearly marked.
With careful consideration, the best possible command center for any medical emergency can be easily chosen.
5. Always Be Ready for a Workplace Medical Emergency
Preparing for a medical emergency at work is no easy task, but it is critical for the safety and health of your employees. Everyone should be familiar with workplace emergency procedures and have simple, onsite first aid supplies available.
Make sure to update your medical emergency policies and procedures, as well as train staff in their use. Contact an occupational health firm for help preparing for medical emergencies, and stay safe!
Check out our other blog posts for more tips.
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