First aid basics for your workplace

We have all heard the term “Safety First” and certainly know that it is always a good practice to make safety a priority in the workplace.  Preventing accidents and injuries keeps everyone safe and lets businesses run smoothly without much worry.  However, there are going to be times when every precaution is taken, but accidents happen anyway.  Such is the human way.  Along with a good risk management plan, you should also know the basics of first aid and what to do after an accident does occur.

1. Depending on your type of business, you should have a few trained first aiders on staff. If your business is low risk (clerical office) 1 first aider for every 50 employees is probably sufficient.  For higher risk businesses you will want to increase it to 1 first aider for every 25 employees.
2. First aid kits should be available to every employee and should contain bandages, cold packs, and other OSHA required items and equipment for your state.
3. Set up a first aid training class for employees to teach basics like what to do when someone is choking, how to recognize a stroke or heart attack, how to stabilize a patient who may be in shock or sustained an injury, etc.
4. Make sure everyone knows how to dial 9-1-1. It may seem silly, but reiterate that 911 is sometimes necessary even in the workplace.

Once you and your employees are versed in how to handle first aid situations, be sure you know how your insurance will cover you in any emergency situation.  Call us to review your current business policy or to get a quote on a custom insurance policy to fit your business’s needs.  We can offer you coverage that matches the risks your business has each day to eliminate worry and keep your business running smoothly.

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