INJURIES in the workplace are an incredibly common occurrence, with 340 million workplace accidents happening every year globally.
These injuries can be anything from minor falls, crashes, collisions, exposure to harmful material, and more. The potential for injury, especially in more physical-demanding jobs, is high. Therefore, it is of critical importance to be prepared.
Having the knowledge to provide basic first aid is critical in the workplace, especially to ensure the safety and well-being of employees.
Below are six common workplace injuries and the corresponding first-aid measures for you to follow.
1. Cuts and wounds
Depending on how deep the wound is, the injury can significantly vary in severity. If the wound is deep, it must be seen by a healthcare professional. However, if it is a smaller wound, it can be dealt with quickly and easily by giving blended first aid at work.
Firstly, make sure to keep the wound clean in order to avoid infection. Clean gently with a mild antiseptic, if you have it on hand, or with clean water. Apply direct pressure to the wound to control the bleeding using a clean cloth or towel.
Then, apply either a band aid, sterile dressing, or an adhesive bandage, depending on the wound’s severity. Try elevating the injured area if this is possible.
If the bleeding does not stop after following these steps, seek medical attention.
2. Burns
Burns can be caused in the workplace for many reasons: from a naked flame to unmarked chemicals. It is always essential to wear protective gear; however, sometimes accidents still happen, so here is what you do if a burn does occur.
Firstly, remove the injured person away from the source of their burn, whatever that may have been. Make sure the injured party is in a safe place.
For a minor burn, it can be treated by cooling the affected area by running it under tap water. This water should not be too cold, and this should be carried out for at least 10 minutes or until the pain has gone. If necessary, cover the burn with a sterile dressing and offer pain relief, such as paracetamol and ibuprofen.
If the burn is severe or very large, then you should call emergency services immediately.
3. Sprains
Sprains can happen very easily, as they are caused by a joint being forced to move in an unnatural way. It can cause swelling, stiffness, and pain.
Immediately, the injured party should rest and avoid putting any unnecessary weight on the injury. Applying ice will reduce swelling, but ensure you do not apply the ice directly onto the skin. If possible, elevate the injury, as this can also help to reduce swelling.
Finally, the injury can be stabilized with a bandage: wrapped firmly but not too tight.
Typically, a sprain will heal by itself within a week to 10 days. If the pain persists or prevents the injured party from moving, seek medical advice from a professional.
4. Fractures and Broken Bones
If a bone is suspected to be broken or fractured, then immediately transport the injured party to a hospital for treatment. However, there are still ways to assist while waiting for professional medical attention.
The injured party should rest and avoid moving the injury. Applying ice can reduce swelling, but do not apply ice directly to the skin. It is possible to support the injured area using a makeshift sling or splint, but do ensure not to move the bone.
5. Fainting or Loss of Consciousness
Seeing someone faint can be a scary experience, but the best way to reduce your fear and ensure the safety of your colleague is by knowing exactly what to do.
First, lay the unconscious party on their back and elevate their legs, slightly increasing the blood flow to their brain. Loosen anything that may be tight around their neck or waist: such as loosening their tie or belt or undoing the top button of their shirt or trousers.
Check their pulse and breathing. If there is no sign of a pulse, then begin CPR if you have the training and immediately call emergency services.
Once they regain consciousness, encourage them to take every movement slowly and shift themselves into a seated position. Encourage them to rest.
6. Heat exhaustion
When working out in the summer sun, protecting yourself from the heat is critical, primarily by staying dehydrated.
If you suspect heat exhaustion, move the person away from the blazing sun into an air-conditioned building if possible. Lay the person down and elevate their legs while also ensuring to remove any tight or heavy clothing.
Provide cold water or any other non-caffeinated or non-alcoholic beverage if water is not available. Using a sponge filled with cooled water or fanning can also assist in cooling.
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Conclusion
This list is by no means exhaustive and only seeks to provide a basic overview. Any of these workplace injuries has the potential to be very serious.
When dealing with a workplace injury, always proceed with caution, and if in doubt, refer to healthcare professionals, or in more extreme cases, make sure to call the emergency services in your area. Never delay seeking medical advice if there is any uncertainty.
