Health Emergency Management

Introduction

The safety of each of us is the number one priority. At any moment, a colleague could suffer a sudden health problem, or we could witness an accident. Knowing how to act in those first few minutes is crucial and can make all the difference. The goal of this talk is to review the steps to follow so that we are all prepared.

What to do if a coworker has a health emergency?

If a colleague faints, has difficulty breathing, suffers severe chest pain, has a seizure, or another serious medical emergency, follow these steps:

• Stay calm and assess the situation. Ensure the area is safe for you and the affected person. Do not put yourself at risk.
• Call 911 immediately. Provide your exact location. The 911 operator will give you instructions.
• Alert your supervisor or safety officer. Notify them so they can activate the company's emergency plan.
• Do not move the person unless their life is in imminent danger.
• Provide basic first aid if you are trained. Control bleeding or assist with emergency medication. Do not administer unprescribed drugs.
• Stay with the person until emergency help arrives. Reassure them and keep them comfortable.

What to do in case of a work accident?

If you or a coworker are injured in a work accident, follow this procedure:

• Secure the area: If possible, eliminate any immediate hazards to prevent further injuries.
• Inform your supervisor immediately. It is crucial to report any injury, no matter how minor it seems, as soon as possible. In Utah, you have 180 days, but reporting immediately is the best practice.
• Seek medical attention. Your employer should direct you where to go for treatment.
• Notify the medical provider that it is a work injury. Explain how, when, and where the accident occurred.

Notification and Reporting: To Whom and When?

It is the company's legal responsibility to notify state agencies in cases of serious accidents. Understanding this process helps us appreciate the importance of timely reporting.

Company Notification:

• Employee: You must notify your supervisor of any accident or injury immediately.
• Supervisor/Company: The employer must begin the reporting process with their workers' compensation insurance carrier.

Notification to Utah Agencies (Employer's Responsibility):

• UOSH - Fatality: Report any work-related fatality within 8 hours.
• UOSH - Serious Injury: Report any in-patient hospitalization, amputation, or loss of an eye within 24 hours.
• Labor Commission of Utah: The employer must file an "Employer's First Report of Injury or Illness".

Your Rights as a Worker in Utah

• You have the right to a safe and healthy workplace.
• You can confidentially report workplace hazards to your employer or UOSH.
• You have the right to receive information and training about hazards in your workplace.

Additional Training Resources

Knowledge Check

Acknowledgement & Sign-off

By signing below, I acknowledge that I have participated in this safety talk, understand the information presented, and will adhere to these safety protocols.