The Importance of First Aid at Work
From a post by Ian Martin:
Accidents can happen anywhere, even in the safest of offices. Simple trips and falls can have serious consequences, and unexpected problems such as heart attacks can become life-or-death situations. Having someone in the office trained to deal with first aid can help to make the accident victims more comfortable, as well as potentially save lives, and first aid at work is therefore hugely important.
Accidents are Just Around The Corner
Some workplaces are clearly more dangerous than others. Those workplaces where heavy machinery is being operated will pose certain risks, but even a simple office can pose risks. Tripping on wires, lifting heavy objects, falling down the stairs - anything is possible and that's why training for first aid at work is so vital.
Every Workplace Needs Someone
Just knowing that there is someone trained in first aid in the workplace is a reassurance. If you have to call for an ambulance then having someone on hand to administer first aid in the first few minutes could prove to be essential. Even for more minor incidents such as small cuts, it is good to have someone with first aid training to ensure that employees get the care they need.
Spot the Dangers
Someone who has undergone first aid training is more likely to have a keener eye to be able to spot the potential dangers before they occur. When people undergo first aid training courses they can look at situations by the risk factor they pose. So when someone leaves their bag out in the corridor or fails to clean up a spillage you will be more aware of this which will reduce the likelihood of accidents occurring.
Employers: Look After Your Staff
If you are an employer then it is a good idea to make sure that you have someone on the payroll who can deal with first aid situations. The office is a lot safer when one or two of the staff have first aid at work training, and you know that you are doing everything you can to keep your staff safe, which is part of being a responsible employer. You could even undergo training yourself, and it is best to have at least one other person trained.
Improve Your Job Prospects
If you are looking for a job then being able to provide first aid at work can help you to add something to your set of skills. First aid training does not take long to carry out, but once you have it then employers will recognise its significance and it can help you to stand out more as an attractive proposition to employers.
Source
Learn about Barringtons First Aid Courses here.
Blayne Webb, Director, Barringtons
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