First aid is essential in the workplace because it can help to save lives. When an accident happens, having a plan and knowing what to do can make all the difference. 

What to do in the event of a workplace accident:

When an accident happens, the first thing you should do is assess the situation. Is anyone in immediate danger? If so, take action to ensure their safety. Once you have ensured that everyone is safe, you can begin to provide first aid. 

Common first aid situations and how to treat them:

• Cuts: clean the wound and apply pressure
• Bruises: ice the area to reduce swelling
• Burns: run cool water over the burn and cover with a sterile bandage
• Scrapes: clean the wound and apply a bandage
• Sprains and strains: rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE)
• Head bumps: If there is any bleeding, apply pressure to the wound with a clean cloth or bandage. If there is swelling, ice the area for 15 minutes. If the person seems confused or dizzy, call for medical help. Most importantly, stay with the person until help arrives. 

If you are ever unsure of what to do in a first aid situation, always err on the side of caution and seek medical help. 

What you need in your first aid kit:

• Bandages
• Gauze
• Scissors
• Tape
• Gloves
• Antiseptic wipes
• Cotton balls
• Tweezers
• Soap and clean water
• Ice packs

Filling in an incident report:

After the injury has been treated you must write an incident report, regardless of how minor it may seem. By documenting the details of the accident, you can help improve the safety of your construction site, prevent future accidents from happening, and ensure there is proof in case the injury becomes worse. 

An incident report should include a description of the accident, the date and time it occurred and the location.

Have a designated safety officer:

It is important to have a designated safety officer who is responsible for ensuring that the workplace is safe and compliant with all health and safety regulations. They should also be trained in first aid so that they can handle any accidents or emergencies that may occur. In Queensland, a first aid certificate is valid for three years and a CPR certificate is valid for one.

Tips for a safe workplace:

Ensure all employees are aware of safety procedures, have access to appropriate personal protective equipment and know where first aid equipment is kept. By being prepared and knowing what to do in an emergency, you can help to keep your workplace safe for everyone

Click here for a free incident report form!

This Post Is Part Of A Series: 101 Toolbox Topic Ideas For The Construction Industry
Do you struggle to come up with toolbox talk ideas each week to discuss with your workers? Fear no more, Work Safety QLD is here to the rescue with 101 Free Toolbox Talk Ideas for the Construction Industry.