A person never knows when an injury or illness will strike. This uncertainty makes first aid training an imperative presence in the workplace. Responsible businesses will make sure employees are properly trained for handling basic mishaps that might occur and that the business is adequately stocked with appropriate first aid supplies.
Mostly, first aid training consists of products, processes and techniques. Understanding these things will be easier with the knowledge of some important first aid training key terms.
Occupational hazard, occupational accident
In business, occupational hazards (workplace concerns that lead to occupational accidents) are a leading reason for the need for first aid. An occupational hazard is anything on the job that can lead to an injury. Every job comes with its own set of occupational hazards.
I recommend: For a detailed definition and examples of an occupational hazard, see
LawInfo. The
International Labour Organization provides occupational hazard information on a variety of occupations. This information explores job-related hazards and focuses on occupational accident prevention.
First responder kit
A first responder kit is a type of first aid kit assembled for the purpose of portability and immediate use upon meeting an emergency.
I recommend: Explore the definition and more details of a first responder kit at
The Preparedness Center.
Emergency guide
An emergency guide, a quick reference sheet often included in a first aid kit, is a useful tool in situations where first aid is necessary. In high stress situations, even the most in-depth first aid training can be forgotten. A handy emergency guide will help to refresh your memory when details are forgotten or walk you through an unknown process.
I recommend: eMedicine explains about emergency guides and has a collection available to be printed for your first aid kits.
Cardio-pulmonary resuscitation, CPR
It is advisable to become certified in Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation. Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation, commonly known as CPR, is the emergency technique for reviving a stopped heart. Most first aid trainings cover this topic.
I recommend: A detailed definition of CPR can be viewed online on the
Mayo Clinic website.
Automated external defibrillator, AED
An automated external defibrillator, or AED, is a small medical, electronic device that emits a shock to assist in reviving people whose hearts have stopped beating.
I recommend: The
Occupational Safety and Health Administration gives information on the automated external defibrillator and its use. For further description, visit the
U.S. Food and Drug Administration page on AEDs.
Occupational Safety & Health Administration, OSHA
The Occupational Safety & Health Administration, commonly referred to as OSHA, is a government agency that advocates on behalf of America's workers to provide avenues for utmost safety on the job. Among its many tasks, OSHA sets safety standards and provides safety and first aid training.
I recommend: Learn about OSHA and more of its significance for your business from
AllBusiness.com. Also see
Business & Legal Reports.