Retail staff, security personnel and healthcare workers across South Africa face real risk of violent assault. First aiders must be prepared for trauma injuries beyond standard workplace accidents. Stab Wounds Call ambulance immediately. Don't remove embedded objects - they control the bleeding. Apply firm pressure around [...]
Sudden blindness or vision loss at work is a medical emergency most first aiders don't know how to handle. Delay of even an hour can cost someone their sight permanently. Correct Response Sudden painless vision loss - use F.A.S.T. stroke protocol immediately. Arc eye from welding - cover both eyes with damp pads. [...]
Manholes, storage tanks and silos are common in South African workplaces. They are also responsible for some of the most tragic multiple-fatality incidents - where rescuers become victims. Correct Response Call emergency services immediately. Ventilate the space from outside if possible. Keep the casualty in sight and talking if possible. [...]
Needle stick injuries aren't only a hospital risk. Cleaners, waste handlers, security staff and social workers across South Africa face this danger regularly. And the first two minutes are critical. Correct Response Encourage wound to bleed freely under running water. Wash with soap and water for two minutes minimum. [...]
Carbon monoxide is odorless, colorless and invisible. By the time workers realize something is wrong, they're already in danger - and multiple casualties can occur within minutes. Correct Response: Evacuate everyone immediately. Don't investigate the source. Call emergency services. Fresh air is the immediate treatment. Don't re enter until cleared by [...]
Industrial machinery, power tools and cutting equipment make dramatic amputations a real risk in many workplaces. Immediate Response Call ambulance immediately. Control bleeding with firm direct pressure and clean dressing. Keep the person warm and treat for shock. Keep them calm - panic increases blood loss. Don't assume reimplantation isn't [...]
Panic attacks and heart attacks share remarkably similar symptoms. Misidentifying one as the other can have fatal consequences. Panic Attack Signs: - Triggered by stress, anxiety or fear. - Rapid heartbeat, chest tightness, tingling in hands. - Dizziness and shortness of breath. - Usually peaks and improves within 10 minutes. Heart Attack Signs: - Crushing [...]
Asthma Attack at Work with no Inhaler: What now? It happens all the time - an asthma attack strikes and the inhaler is forgotten at home or completely empty. Immediate Response without Inhaler: - Sit them upright. Never lie them down, it restricts breathing - Stay calm. Panic and anxiety significantly worsens the attack - [...]
Dehydration and Heat Related Illness in Infants and Young Children Our children’s bodies create a tremendous amount of heat. Normally, they're cooled through sweating and by heat radiating through the skin. But in very hot weather, high humidity, and other conditions, this natural cooling system may begin to fail, letting heat in the body build to dangerous levels. [...]
85% of Childhood Poisoning occur when the parent or caregiver are with the child but not paying attention. Between the ages of one and three years, toddlers are extremely prone to accidental poisoning. The best way to prevent your child from swallowing something dangerous is to simply poison-proof your home. Children explore their environment [...]