Learning First Aid

What would you do if a co-worker informed you that someone was injured? Have you taken first aid training so that you'll know what to do? The construction industry is a leader in accidents and the injury rates continue to be high, so knowing basic first aid is a must.

Some Facts

• Just like it sounds, "first aid" is the first help you give to someone who is suddenly sick or injured. In a serious accident, first aid can mean the difference between life and death.

• A first aid course teaches you how to take care of injured people. BESA offers CPR/First Aid Seminars annually.

• Minor wounds are usually unexpected. These wounds generally aren't serious, and in many cases, first aid will be all you need. Knowing what to do right away can make a difference in how quickly, and how well, an injury heals.

It Really Happens

A carpenter in Oakland got a large splinter in his hand. He removed it and kept on working. Three days later he noticed a red line moving up his arm. When he went to the emergency room, he found out that he had blood poisoning. Washing the wound properly or applying some type of antiseptic would have prevented the infection. But the carpenter did not know first aid.

Employer's Role

• Let your employees know about first aid training in your community.

• Have someone with first aid training available at every work site.

• Make sure your first aid kit is fully stocked and checked regularly.

• Keep a list of emergency numbers where everyone can see them.

Worker's Role

• Consider taking a first aid class through BESA or at your local Red Cross chapter.

• If you receive first aid for a minor injury, watch the wound for infections and notify your employer and see a doctor if the wound becomes red, tender or swollen.

• If you haven't had first aid training recently, take a refresher course.

Discussing First Aid

• Who is trained in first aid? When did you receive your training?

• Is it better to hope that someone else knows what to do in an emergency, or is it better to be prepared yourself?

• Where are the first aid kits? Who is responsible for making sure they are refilled as needed?

• Do you think you can remain calm if an emergency arises? Why or why not?