When a medical emergency or injury occurs, knowing what to do and being able to react quickly is critical to limiting the severity of the incident. Proper first aid training gives people the confidence and skills they need to tackle an emergency, prevent further injury, and save a life. In extreme cases, equipping employees with first aid training could mean the difference between life and death.

Although all jurisdictions in the United States and Canada require workplaces to provide a first aid kit, first aid attendant, and training, the requirements vary depending on the nature of the job, the number of employees on site, and the location. of the workplace. . All oil and gas jobs are considered high risk jobs and it is strongly recommended that all employees working on site receive first aid training. This ensures that first aid is available and accessible at all times, regardless of which employees are on duty. If it is not possible to provide first aid training to all employees, it is important to understand the requirements of the state or province in which you operate to ensure compliance with their standards.

Upon completion of a First Aid training course, an employee will receive either a First Aid certificate or a CPR-C First Aid certificate. These certifications are valid for 3 years.

The curriculum for this course includes:
• Basic life support for adults, children and infants
• Management of small wounds
• Critical airway, breathing and circulation interventions with C-column management
• Prepare to respond
• The EMS system
• Check, call, care
• First aid for respiratory and cardiac arrest
• Head and spinal injuries
• Bone, muscle and joint injuries
• Sudden medical emergencies
• Environmental emergencies

Having employees properly trained in first aid is one component of a comprehensive first aid plan. A first aid plan establishes expectations and requirements regarding first aid services, equipment, supplies, records, communication, and transportation. Developing a First Aid Plan requires an assessment of the potential hazards in the workplace and the types of injuries and illnesses that can occur. Consider information such as the number of workers, the type of work, and the medical treatment available. When developing your first aid plan, you should always consider the worst case scenario.

In short, your First Aid Plan should include:
• The number of first aid attendants needed to cover all areas and shifts, including names and contact details.
• Specific training requirements for first aid attendants
• Specific requirements and management for first aid kit and first aid room (if required)
• Emergency response procedures
• First aid registration and notification system
• Important contact numbers (eg, 9-1-1, police, poison control, hospitals/clinics)

It is the role of managers and supervisors to understand the First Aid Plan and their responsibilities, as well as to ensure that first aid information is provided to all employees.

Regular checkups are an important part of maintaining your first aid plan. Emergency drills and exercises can help make sure your plan works if an emergency strikes, and first aid kits and facilities should be checked regularly. If an incident requiring first aid occurs, this is an opportunity for you to assess the effectiveness of your first aid plan and make any necessary changes or improvements.