Yearly Archives: 2012

Ergonomics, General Safety Issues

EIGHT WAYS ERGONOMICS CAN HELP YOUR OFFICE (GUEST POST)

When people think of “workplace accidents,” images of construction sites or nuclear power plants usually come to mind. But the truth is, most office jobs don’t involve hazardous chemicals or dangerous heights. The less-than-thrilling reality is that some of the most common workplace injuries come from standard office environments, and even though 4.1 million individuals sustain work injuries or illnesses, most workplace injuries are preventable. In this post, you’ll find eight ways ergonomics can help your office, and ideas to improve your workplace environment. 

1. Improve your employee’s physical health…

Ergonomics studies how the equipment and environment of a workplace interact with the human body for optimal performance. The obvious benefit of a sound ergonomic office is that employees are less susceptible to workplace injuries or illnesses. I particularly like this course about common office safety tips; it gives easy ways to avoid workplace injuries. If your employees are kept safe and healthy, you’ve already got an essential part of a successful business. 

2. And improve your employee’s mental health

Physical injuries are not the only type of harm that afflict workers in an office environment. There is a whole field of ergonomics, called “engineering psychology” that studies the relationships between humans and machines. Engineering psychology tries to improve how users interact with the technology around them. For example, in the 1920s, Lillian Gilbreth invented the pedal bin, which allowed individuals to more easily throw away their trash. This type of ergonomic improvement, making people feel more comfortable using their equipment, is essential in the modern, technology-filled workplace.  

3. Minimize costs in your workplace

If an employee sustains a workplace injury, they are often entitled to “worker’s compensation,” which can cost your company thousands of dollars. By keeping all of your employees safe, you avoid this expensive cost.  

4. Increase your employee’s productivity

Happy and safe employees are productive employees. Workplace injuries prevent not only the injured from working, but take time away from their coworkers, your personnel department, and anyone else involved in the accident. Minimizing the number of injuries in your office allows your employees to devote more time to their job. 

5. Make you in compliance with OSHA standards

Keeping your employees safe isn’t just a good idea, it’s the law. OSHA has a set of regulations that businesses must follow to keep their workers safe. These online OSHA training courses can show you how your company can comply with OSHA regulations to keep your workplace safe. 

6. Prevent nasty lawsuits

If an employee feels their company has neglected to provide them a safe workplace environment, they might feel the need to sue their company for endangerment. And even if they lose the suit, the legal proceedings can cost your company thousands of dollars in legal fees. Keeping a safe workplace avoids these costly suits. 

7. Improve your company’s reputation

Workplace injuries don’t just harm your employees, they hurt your business’s reputation. If you can’t keep your workers safe, it will be hard to find other companies who want to do business with you. Having safe and healthy employees expands your business opportunities.  

8. Brighten your workplace atmosphere

Knowing that they are working in a safe and healthy environment will have an immediate improvement on your employee’s attitude and well-being. Every person in your company will feel the effect of having a safe workplace.

 

Micaela Deitch is a Business Development intern working at Open Sesame. She is a rising sophomore at Georgetown University and interested in learning about online education. You can connect her at micaela.deitch@opensesame.com.

Micaela, we really appreciate this your sending us the informative article.  Those who work in offices are subject to injury, as well as those out in the field or warehouses.  Their comfort and safety is very important to successful business.  pb

 

General Safety Issues

ASSESSING RISKS – Guest Post

Assessing risks in any workplace should be a key part of an organisations strategy in helping them to make sure they protect both staff and the business. The process itself can often be made overly complicated but it really does not need to be. At its most basic all that is involved is working out what can go wrong and then putting control measures in place to try to prevent that happening and lowering risks to as low a level as is reasonably practicable.

Involving the right people from the very start of the process is vital to making sure risks are assessed thoroughly. This should include not only those in charge of health and safety and its implementation but also those directly involved in the work which is being assessed – after all these are the people that need to be protected. However, risk assessments should be carried out by competent persons.

Adequate risk assessments are fundamental to ensuring the effective management of health and safety risks at work. They should take into account:
•       people;
•       premises;
•       plant; and
•       procedures.

One approach to risk assessments is to follow these five simple steps:

•       Identify the hazards.
•       Decide who might be harmed and how.
•       Evaluate the risks and decide on precautions.
•       Record your findings and implement them.
•       Review your assessment and update if necessary.

Hazards are anything that could cause harm; e.g. working at heights, chemicals, electricity, etc., whilst the risk is the chance, whether low or high, that someone could be harmed by those hazards and an indication of how serious the harm could be.

Removing a hazard is naturally the best way to avoid risk but that is not always an available option. In the first instance then we should try to ‘avoid the risk’ completely, for instance by changing the process involved. If this is not an option then we should find a ‘substitute’; i.e. use less hazardous materials. If this is unachievable then we should ‘minimise’ the risk by possibly limiting exposure to individuals or implement ‘general control measures’ such as barriers or warning systems. As a very last resort ‘personal protective equipment (PPE)’ should be used to protect individuals.

Any controls implemented should focus on protecting collective groups rather than individuals whilst the more human behaviour is involved the more likely something is to go wrong. PPE is the last resort for this very reason – its successful application relies on its user adopting it correctly.

Generic risk assessments may well suffice for most repetitive activities in low risk workplaces such as offices and few if any control measures may therefore be required. However, if you are adopting this kind of approach for your organisation then you should be cautious as incorrect assumptions could be made and could result in forgetting that other risks exist.

To cover against all eventualities then site specific risk assessments should be undertaken to account for differing hazards such as different work conditions, locations, access or time constraints.

Risk assessments should not be used alone as a basis for assuming that employees with always apply common sense. It is also necessary to maintain an appropriate level of monitoring in the workplace to ensure continued effectiveness.

Risk assessments can include reports where hazards are described and control measures recommended or numerical rating systems (e.g. low / medium / high or 1–5 scales for likelihood and severity of an accident occurring) used to identify the level of risk. A numerical approach, however, can sometimes create a drive to achieve certain scores rather than to effectively identify and control risks.

The key to successful risk assessment therefore lies largely in the competence of those involved. Whatever choice is made regarding type or method of risk assessment, the results should always be consistent as well as being simple to understand and action.

Article by Gavin Bates from the Workplace Law Network

General Safety Issues, Health Issues

WHY CHRONIC MUSCLE ACHES SHOULD NOT BE IGNORED (GUEST POST)

People who work out or exercise on a regular basis will often feel sore after an intense workout, but if the soreness stays for some time, you may want to seek medical attention. Muscle pain could be happening for several reasons, most of which are harmless. However, when the pain is chronic and it impacts your daily life, something more serious could be wrong. Never ignore muscle aches and pains, as the time that you are wasting to find out the source could make matters worse. Let’s take a look at some of the reasons you may be suffering.

Pinched Nerve

If you have a pinched nerve, the feeling can be a constant pain that throbs from the nerve to the muscles without stopping. When there is too much pressure being put on the tissues that are around the nerves, this will cause a pinched nerve. If you have a pinched nerve, several things can make it worse. Obesity, bad posture, intense exercise routines, and repetitive movements can all make you feel worse. To recover from this, much rest is needed and often times if the case is extreme, physical therapy or surgery may be needed. 

Fibromyalgia
 
If you have muscle aches throughout your entire body and the muscles are almost too painful touch, this could be fibromyalgia. Not only does the muscular pain feel horrible, but it makes you feel sleepy and exhausted. More women than men tend to have fibromyalgia and the risks of getting it increase with age. Not only should fibromyalgia be treated physically with exercise, a good diet and plenty of rest, there are times when an antidepressant will be prescribed. The positive benefit of an antidepressant is that it elevates the serotonin levels which help to lower the painful feeling in the body. 
 
Chronic Exertional Compartment Syndrome 
 
Known as CECS, this syndrome happens when you have been doing some high impact exercises or activity that will cause lots of swelling and pain in the muscles. The symptoms of CECS get worse while you are engaged in the activity or exercise and when you rest they subside. With CECS, your muscles may feel stiff.
 
Myofascial Pain Syndrome
 
With myofascial pain syndrome pain in the muscles and being sensitive to touch the muscles are the major signs. The muscles may have some temporary aching as well. This condition is the cause of chronic muscle pains. A new injury to the muscle or not using the muscle enough may increase the risks of pain. The pain you feel with chronic muscle problems can be managed with some self care, but there also could be a need to have some medical attention as well. Often times for conditions that are not relieved with therapy or at home treatments, acupuncture, yoga, and other homeopathic treatments may be advised. Never let your chronic pain go on without treating it. 
 
Beth Roberts writes about health, finance & finding the best travel insurance.
Guest Post U
The University of Great Content
 
We’ve all heard the saying, “No Pain, No Gain,” but in most cases, this simply isn’t true.  One of the most important things a person who suffers chronic muscle disease can do is rest.  It’s hard to convince people, but rest can help overcome much of the pain. pb 
 
First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues

SUMMER SAFETY ALERT – FOLLOW WATER SAFETY GUIDELINES (Guest Post)

With the official beginning of Summer being tomorrow, June 20th, this post sent to us by Carrie Dotson, of  is most appropriate.  There are many little ones splashing in pools everywhere, so it’s very important that they are properly supervised.  Here is some advice from Carrie: 

With the summer months here, many nannies and children will spend time in and around water.  For this reason, it’s important that parents take precautions when choosing who their children swim with.

International Nanny Association recently released the following recommendation:

INA recommends that children are only to be taken swimming by a nanny if she is a lifeguard, if she has successfully completed a credible water safety and rescue course, or if there is a lifeguard present.

INA recommends that any child care provider who works in a home where there is a large body of water present be properly trained in water safety and rescue.  

While to some the recommendation may seem overboard, the 2010 drowning death of a Long Island toddler and nanny in a swimming pool  and the death of a nanny who did not know how to swim but jumped in the water to rescue her charge serve as reminders that when in and around water, it is essential that the caregiver be a strong  swimmer who is comfortable around water.

If a nanny is required or encouraged to take the children in and around water, it is important that the caregiver have the skills and confidence necessary to safely supervise the children in her care.

As an INA member, we support INA’s recommendations. In addition, we recommend that when looking for a nanny, parents:

  • Disclose if water play or swimming will be encouraged or required.
  • Ask if the nanny has lifeguard or water safety and rescue training.
  • Ask for proof of current CPR and first aid certification.
  • Ask if the nanny is comfortable around water.
  • Inquire as to the nanny’s swimming ability.
  • Require the nanny to obtain life guard certification or to take a water safety and rescue course if supervising the children in and around water will be part of her duties and responsibilities. Parents may wish to contribute to or cover the cost of this training should they require it.

The warm, summer months are ideal for playing in and around water. Before allowing your child to enjoy water activities with her caregiver, be sure she is qualified to supervise her properly and save her from drowning, should the need arise.

Parents who don’t employ nannys should always be vigilant about times that their little ones are in the pool.  Public pools are very loud and active, so it’s difficult for lifeguards to see every movement.  Private pools should be fenced in order to keep children from being tempted to dive in unannounced.  Have a safe and fun summer! pb

 

Eye Protection, First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues, Hand Protection, Head Protection, Protective Clothing

ESSENTIAL SAFETY EQUIPMENT FOR MOTOCROSS (GUEST POST)

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Essential Safety Equipment for Motocross 

Needless to say, Motocross is an exciting but very risky sport. As they usually take place in the outdoors, chances of accidents and subsequent injuries are higher. Flying particles like rock, dust, mud and other debris can compromise your vision and cause accidents. Alternatively, it is also possible that your motorbike may face mechanical difficulties during the race. To keep possible injuries to a minimum, it is important to invest heavily in safety.  

Most common Motocross injuries 

Being an extreme sport, injuries are very common in Motocross races. A medical research shows that at least 95% of Motocross racers sustain injuries after a race. These researchersafety s also pointed out that engaging in Motocross causes extreme stress to all parts of the body with most injuries commonly occurring during falls or crashes. Owing to the high speed and the force of crashes, injuries in Motocross events can be serious, including fatal spinal cord injuries. 

These injuries occur at bends of the track and during landing, making protective gear even more important. Some of the most common injuries include broken wrists, collar bones, ankles, joint sprains and the rupturing of the knee joint. Most physiotherapists recommend the use of knee braces, shoulder supports, wrist supports, ankle braces and wrist casts for motocross injuries. For muscle strains caused by the sport, you should opt for regular ice packs and cold therapy. Keeping a first aid kit handy is also a good option. 

Safety gear for Motocross events 

Considering the past record of Motocross events, injuries are a part and parcel of the game. However, there are many steps you can take to keep your injuries to a minimum. Every rider taking part in Motocross is required to have safety gear without which they are not allowed to participate. 

Motocross helmets are undoubtedly one of the most important parts of the safety gear as they are responsible for safeguarding your head and neck. You should also invest in high quality goggles made from tough and scratch resistant polycarbonate. This ensures that the goggles do not crack on impact and continue to shield your eyes. You should also invest in strong boots to protect your ankle, shin and foot from the stress of riding. Invest in quality gloves to protect your hands from impact. Boots and gloves also help you maintain a grip on your bike without being bound to it. 

Motocross clothing generally includes protective jackets, shirts and pants. It is important to protect your legs from injuries. To avoid small rocks and other particles hitting your legs and affecting your race, you should opt for padded motocross pants with additional internal lining for cushion. Riders also opt for Motocross jackets with chest guards as it is the largest area of impact during a crash. The chest is also most often exposed to strain from handle bars and protecting it with a multilayered shirt or jacket is a wise idea. 

Penny is an expert associated with POA Racing. a UK based online seller of quality Motocross equipment. The store stocks branded Motocross safety gear for racers including Motocross helmets, clothing and other essentials.

Thank you, Penny, for this interesting post on Motocross safety.  It is a very exciting sport for those who love taking risks; however, some folks may prefer a simple little bicycle for their mode of transportation!  We appreciate your participation on our Blog4Safety. pb

General Safety Issues, Weather Protection

SAFE DRIVING IN INCLEMENT WEATHER (GUEST POST)

There are more than 10 million motor vehicle accidents in the United States annually. In times of inclement weather, whether it be heavy rain, snow, ice or fog, the chances of being involved in an accident increase exponentially. With a few reminders, a driver can greatly reduce the likelihood of a motor vehicle accident in bad weather conditions.

Stopping distances increase dramatically as speed increases. Allowing for a proper stopping distance is probably the number one rule for safe driving in inclement weather. Stopping distance is measured as the distance covered by a vehicle at a given speed when applying brakes. The reaction time of the driver is factored into stopping distances. For an average passenger car, the overall stopping distance, including reaction time, travelling at 30 mph is 75 feet. When the speed is doubled to 60 mph the stopping distance increases to 240 feet, or more than 3 times the distance at 30 mph. 
In wet pavement conditions, stopping distances double. On icy roads, the stopping distance can increase as high as tenfold. Stopping an average vehicle on wet pavement at 60 mph may take nearly 500 feet, or nearly a 10th of a mile. 
Most are familiar with the rule of allowing 2 seconds of time between their vehicle and the vehicle in front of them. On wet pavement or ice, the time should be at least doubled. Simply observe the vehicle in front of you as it passes a stationary object next to the road, such as a road sign. Then count how long it takes your vehicle to reach the object. If less than 4 seconds elapse, you are following too close. Slow your vehicle to give yourself distance between you and the car in front.
Braking on ice, snow or wet pavement will differ depending on whether the vehicle has an antilock braking system (ABS). With normal hydraulic brakes, the driver will pump the brakes rapidly to slow the vehicle. The pumping action is intended to prevent the wheels from locking, and ultimately skidding. 
On antilock brakes, the brake system performs the pumping action for the driver. The driver simply presses the brakes firmly, keeping constant pressure, and the brake system will rapidly apply intermittent pressure. The driver will know when the ABS is engaged, because the brake pedal will vibrate.
All windows and mirrors should be clear of ice, snow and fog while driving. Avoiding “peek hole” vision can mean the difference between avoiding an accident in time or being involved in one. During winter in snowy or icy climates, carrying a bag of salt, sand or even cat litter in the trunk of the vehicle will pay off should the vehicle become stuck. These items can be applied near the drive wheels to allow for traction, if stuck.
Finally, defensive driving becomes a greater priority in bad weather. Never assume that another driver is following the rules of the road and driving attentively. The driver should eyes roving, checking each direction, including side windows and mirrors. Be especially attentive at intersections, watching drivers approaching from the side or the opposite direction. Avoiding an accident with defensive driving techniques is a better result than claiming an accident isn’t your fault.
 
About the Author
Sam Marks loves to write about safety for http://www.defensivedrivingonline.net and has been a professional writer for 3 years. After a car accident that left her at home for several months, she developed a talent for writing about safety and considering things others look past.
 
We thank you for this article that instructs us on the exact protocols we should take in judging distance when driving in heavy rain, and other inclement weather.  With hurricane season beginning, parts of the southern U.S. may be experiencing downfalls of rain and high winds.  Keep these safety tips in mind all year.  They might save your life.  pb
 
General Safety Issues

TOP TIPS FOR CHOOSING THE RIGHT INSURANCE FOR HEALTH-RISK WORKERS- Guest Post

As workers, you should be thinking of getting health insurance coverage.  What insurance options do you have and what are the differences?  How do you pick the best insurer?  

Getting health insurance is a choice that workers may or may not take. A lot of them do, and people who do have greater chances of retaining workers over those who do not. Rationally, people searching for jobs would think of whether they could avail medical benefits from prospective employers. And considering other factors, they are most probably to pick those who offer coverage for dental, maternity and disability needs.  

What are the different kinds of health insurance? 

Normally, employers could offer health insurance coverage to workers through traditional insurance, using health maintenance organizations, or Preferred Provider Organizations. Basic insurance for low wage earners, disabled workers, and those who are aged 65 and above can avail of Medicare given by the government. Under the traditional health insurance, the insured worker has the freedom to pick any health care provider. Under managed care plans, the insurer works with a group of health care experts and hospitals to give medical care. The insured worker is restricted to these identified health care givers. Between a PPO and HMO, the former provides a narrower option of medical professionals. Premiums are greatest for traditional health insurance with that for HMOs coming next and for PPOs lowest. 

Health insurance for workers is health insurance that gives comprehensive protection for the employee as well as his or her family. This coverage is normally an added one other than life insurance for employees.  Health insurance is important to keep workers safe from unanticipated events. Health insurance can be a drive for workers because they are provided protection for themselves and relatives.

A lot of things must be considered when choosing the best insurance company. First is to look for companies that provide protection for 24 hours worldwide. It is very really essential if you have an international business. So when your workers are outside the country, they are still covered by health insurance program.  Next, locate companies that have a network of hospitals that are spread in several places. Keep in mind that accidents and any other mishaps can occur anytime and anywhere.

It is also best to choose a health insurance that gives off cashless facility so as not to burden  your workers in times of emergency. Also, another advantage is that it will ease the burden of the business.  Do not be worried to issue reimbursement or insurance claims in each occasion, so you will save funds and time for your business’ productivity.

Search for companies that provide flexibility in identifying the amount of premiums and advantages that suit your needs. Have you availed health coverage for yourself and family? Get one to improve your quality of health as well as productivity.

What are you waiting for? Stay healthy and productive; get a good health insurance program.

About The Author
Sarah Grace V. is part of the team behind Kanetix. Kanetix,ca is a company dedicated to offer fast and convenient services related to auto insurance. People can get and compare insurance quotes in an instant. To know more about their offers like

General Safety Issues

A SIMPLE GUIDE TO COLOR CODING AND MARKING WATER PIPES (GUEST POST)

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A Simple Guide to Color Coding and Marking Water Pipes  By Jack Rubinger, www.DuraLabel.com, 503-469-3024, jarubinger@graphicproducts.com 

If you manage a New York apartment building, you’ve got to know where that water is flowing – for putting out fires and for upgrades, maintenance and inspections. With pre-war buildings and ancient water pipes, repairs are costly and inconvenient to dwellers dealing with essential service interruptions during major water pipe repairs.  Although water pipes and shut-off valve locations may be identifiable when schematic drawings are available, usually this documentation doesn’t exist – especially with older properties. 

It’s important to track down small leaks as they occur when maintaining water supply and drain lines in pre-war buildings. It makes good sense to be pro-active before inevitable problems occur. The process is simply called “pipe marking” and the investment of time required in labeling the pipes now will save time and money in the future. 

In cases where there are no drawings, applying color coding labels simplifies and speeds water pipe and shut-off valve identification. The ANSI/ASME code provides a standard set of colors for this purpose. In 2007, the ANSI/ASME A13.1 color standard was updated and is now recommended for identifying all pipes carrying water and other substances.

The current version of the ANSI/ASME code uses a pipe labeling standard color code chart with six standard color combinations, and four user-defined combinations. The colors are based on the contents of the pipe. In general, the most hazardous feature of the contents should determine the colors used. So for fire-quenching liquids, the color scheme is white text on red. For potable, cooling, boiler feed and other water the color scheme is white text on green.

In New York City some landlords have tried painting to color code their pipes. Unfortunately they made the mistake of choosing the wrong kind of paint for hot water pipes and cracking occurred. “Usually, the superintendent or the property manager places a hand-written tag on the pipes, and the tags fade with time,” explained Roberta Bernstein, Small Property Owners of New York. 

Now, with a thermal transfer printer, color coding water pipes is easy –  with non-fading, easily readable tags and labels that can withstand high boiler room temperatures. A Graphic Products, Inc. thermal transfer printer and DuraLabel pipe marking kit offers many benefits. 

1)      Printing is uncomplicated. You’ll also enjoy creating custom exit and entrance signs and electrical hazard signs.

2)      Unlike paint, pipe marking supplies remain bright and easy to see for years and can be cleaned with a simple solution.

3)      You can add symbols, arrows and other graphics in a variety of colors and widths from ½ to 9 inches.

4)      Reflective pipe markers are visible in low light and adhere to uneven or imperfect surfaces

5)      Clear plastic pipe marking sleeves enable users to identify dirty, oily, rusty pipes by providing a clean surface for the pipe marking label.

6)      Printing is cost effective. Labels printed in house tend to be less expensive than those ordered on-line or in a catalog.

ANSI code requires pipe markers: 

  • To indicate flow direction by labeling with arrows at one or both ends.
  • To be visible from the point of normal approach.
  • Near valves, flanges and changes in pipe direction.
  • Both sides of ceiling, wall or floor penetrations.
  • At any line entry or re-entry point.
  • On straight pipe runs.
  • Every 50 feet is typical.

Proper pipe marking can prevent disastrous leaks and other events. For more information, visit www.pipemarkers.com or contact Jack Rubinger, www.DuraLabel.com.

These are excellent suggestions for being able to understand what is going where through those pipes!  Thanks, Jack, for another very interesting article. pb

 

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Eye Protection, First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues, Head Protection

TIPS ON TREATING COMMON INJURIES

 Sooner or later, someone at work or in your household will experience one or more of the injuries listed below.  We want to share these suggestions on what to do, what not to do, and when to seek medical attention.  Please keep these instructions where you can find them – inside your first aid kit would be good.  Hopefully, you may never need them, but just in case………… 

  • Bloody Nose:  When delicate blood vessels in the nose break, a nosebleed will follow.
  • Do: Lean slightly forward and pinch your nose just below the bridge, where the cartilage and the bone come together; maintain the pressure for 5 to 15 minutes.  An ice pack pressed against the bridge may also help.
  • Don’t: Tilt your head back.  You may swallow blood,  and potentially some could go into your lungs.
  • When to Seek Medical Attention: If the bleeding hasn’t stopped after 20 minutes; if the nosebleed happened spontaneously; or if it accompanies a headache, dizziness, ringing in the ears, or vision problems.

 

  • Sprain: Sprains happen when the ligaments surrounding a joint are pulled beyond their normal range.  Sprains may also appear swollen and bruised.
  • Do: Alternately apply and remove ice every 20 minutes throughout the first day.  Wrapping the joint with elastic compression bandage and elevating the injury may help.  Stay off the injured limb at least 24 hours.  After that, apply heat to promote blood flow to the area.
  • Don’t: Work through the pain; you may risk more damage, like tearing the ligament.
  • Medical Attention: If the injury fails to improve in a few days, call a doctor – you may have a fracture or a muscle or ligament tear.

 

  • Burn: Third-degree burns result in broken or blackened skin.  Second-degree burns cause blisters, and first-degree burns produce redness.
  • DO: Place the burn under cool running water, submerge it in a bath, or apply wet towels. Loosely bandage a first-or second-degree burn for protection.
  • Don’t: Put an ice pack on major burns.  This may damage the skin and worsen the injury.  Also, don’t pop blisters, and don’t apply an antibiotic or butter to burns, because this can lead to infection.
  • Medical Attention: Call 911 for third-degree, electrical and chemical burns, or if the victim is coughing, has watery eyes, or trouble breathing.  Go to the ER for a second-degree burn that’s larger than your palm; treatment may prevent scarring.

 

  • Choking: When a person is really choking, he can’t cough strongly, speak, or breathe, and his face may turn red or blue.  (I have seen this happen, and it took the Heimlich maneuver to save this person.) 
  • Do: Call 911.  If it is an older person, have him/her lean forward, and using the palm of your hand, strike his back between the shoulder blades five times.  When that doesn’t work, stand behind the victim, place one fist above the belly button, cup the fist with your other hand, and push in and up toward the ribs five times, as in the Heimlich.  If you are alone, press your abdomen against something firm, like a kitchen counter, or use your hands.
  • Don’t: Give water or anything else to someone who is coughing.
  • Medical Attention: Always call 911 when it is true choking.  The universal sign for choking is when the victim wraps his hands around his throat to gesture that he is choking and needs help.

 

  • Open Wound: Cuts, scrapes or punctures need to be treated promptly to avoid infection.
  • Do: Place sterile gauze on the injury and apply pressure to stop the bleeding.  Wash minor cuts and scrapes with soap and water, and follow with a thin layer of Vaseline or an antibiotic ointment and cover with a bandage.
  • Don’t: Wash or apply ointment to a wound that is large, deep, or profusely bleeding.  Don’t try to remove an object protruding from the wound.
  • Medical Attention: Call 911, especially if there’s an object in the cut.  Call your doctor if the wound is deep, accompanied by a fever, or has redness, swelling or red streaks around it.

 

  • Poisoning: Cleaning supplies, carbon monoxide and pesticides are potential household and work hazards.  Also, some persons may be allergic to bee stings and insect bites. 
  • Do: Call 911 if the person is unconscious or having trouble breathing.  Otherwise, call the Poison Control Centers’ national hotline (800-222-1222).  Be ready to tell what substance was involved, how much was taken and when, and the age and weight of the victim.
  • Don’t: Wait for symptoms to appear to call for help.  Don’t give ipecac syrup or try to induce vomiting.  The poison could cause additional damage when it comes back up.  Don’t let the victim eat or drink anything unless the hotline operator tells you to do so.
  • Medical Attention: Always.

 

  • Blow to the Head:  Because the skull is very protective, hitting it rarely results in injuries to the skull itself.  However, if the force is great, the neck, back, and soft tissues inside the head can be injured.  (This is also a good time to remind those who work where something may get dropped on them, or they may run into the sides of things, nothing beats wearing a hardhat!)
  • Do: Call 911 if the person is unconscious.  Treat a bleeding struck area the same as any other cut, but follow up with your doctor, as there could be internal injuries.  Putting an ice pack on a small bump can help reduce the swelling.
  • Don’t: Leave the victim alone, especially when he’s sleeping.  Wake him/her up every three to four hours and have him answer simple questions to make sure there’s no brain injury, such as a concussion.
  • Medical Attention: Call 911 if the victim exhibits seizures, dizziness, vomiting, nausea, or obvious changes in behavior.

Again, let’s hope there won’t be a need for you to render this type of aid; but accidents happen, and it pays to be prepared.

 

Source: realsimple.com/injury

 

 

 

First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues

OUR EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES ARE READY, BUT ARE WE?

One never knows when an emergency will happen, and first aid is one of those things that we all hope we will never be called on to do, but should know in case of an accident.   From the business perspective, bringing a first aid trainer into the workplace can become part of a team-building exercise, as it encourages people to work together to learn for a common goal.  Staff can learn to identify dangerous situations before accidents happen.  This will have a significant impact on the bottom line – in terms of both human cost (lost time, Worker’s Comp claims, and administration time) and insurance and claims costs. 

Know-How (First Aid Precautions): 

1.      SAFETY is the first rule in first aid, (and common sense).  When assisting someone else do not become the second casualty.  Do not enter a burning building to rescue someone unless you are trained to do so, and if you do not swim, don’t enter deep water to rescue someone who is drowning.

2.      Avoid going beyond your training; make sure that you are not doing more harm than good. Leave the medical expertise to the Paramedics and Physicians.

3.      Stay away from medication unless the patient/casualty has their own medication prescribed by the doctor for the particular problem they are experiencing.

4.      Keep injuries to a minimum by knowing what to do when faced with an emergency – take a first aid or CPR course and learn how to save a life. 

It pays to keep first aid kits in your car, home, and at work.  Most workplaces have welll stocked first aid kits.  Kits should be full of supplies that are appropriate for location and planned activities.  It is a good idea for coaches of all sports for youngsters to keep a first aid kit at practice and games, and to know how to administer first aid.  Having an Automatic External Defibrillator, (AED) on site can be life-saving, from a sporting event to a church service.  One never knows when or where a heart attack can occur.  Check your first aid kit to see if it contains:

  •        Bandages
  •        Sterile gauze pads
  •        Alcohol pads
  •        Dressings
  •        Soap
  •        Saline
  •        Tweezers
  •        Disposable gloves
  •        Over the counter pain medications
  •        CPR pocket mask or face shield
  •        Aloe Vera gel
  •        Mixed sizes of safety pins.
  •        Sting relief
  •       Antibiotic ointment  

At work, be sure you know where the first aid kits are located and take a course in first aid if it is offered at your place of employment.  You never know when you may need it.  If you are going on a trip, it may be the most important thing you take with you.

Tomorrow, we will continue on this subject by discussing what to do when some of the most common accidents happen to us, either at work or home.  Please stay tuned……….