Occupational Health and Safety Compliance Guideline

Transcription

1 First Aid Occupational Health and Safety Compliance Guideline Table of Contents Overview 2 Guidelines for Meeting Legislative Compliance 3 Required Services and Equipment 3 Emergency Conveyance 4 First Aid Records 4 Other Considerations Regarding the Administration of First 5 Aid Field Trips 5 Resuscitators and Inhalators 6 Blankets 6 Emergency Eyewash Equipment 6 Medications 7 Portable Kits 7 Training Requirements 7 Staff to Consider for Training 8 Implementation 9 Appendices Appendix I: Table 1 First Aid Training and Supplies- 10 Minimum Requirements Appendix II: Table 2 Required Contents of First Aid Kits 11 Appendix III: Frequently Asked Questions 15 Forms\Checklists First Aid Training Log 23 First Aid Checklist 24 First Aid Record 25 1

2 Guidelines for Compliance with the Alberta Occupational Health and Safety Code First Aid Overview Alberta s newest edition of the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Code was released October First aid requirements for worksites are now found under Part 11 of the code. The content of this Part remains similar to the First Aid Regulation (AR 48/200) it replaces. The following guidelines are provided to assist principals, central services administrators and staff in meeting the government regulation which is administered by Alberta Human Resources and Employment (AHRE). The purpose of the first aid requirements is to ensure that every worksite in the province has the equipment, supplies, and trained staff to support an ill or injured person until complete medical care and treatment can be administered. The code specifies minimum requirements for workers in the province. Edmonton Public Schools has established requirements based on the number of staff, students, parents and volunteers who are on the premises in each location. Individual schools and decision units may deem it necessary to exceed the minimum requirements depending on the nature of their programs and environment. Key requirements 1. The employer has to determine the level of hazards in its premises, which will in turn dictate the required number of first aiders, supplies and equipment. The district has determined that all schools meet the category of closed-medium hazard worksites as described in Table 6, Schedule 2 of the OHS Code. 2. All first aid training must be delivered through a training program that has been approved by the provincial government. An up-to-date list of district approved first aid trainers is available from the Purchasing and Contract Services website: 3. For information on first aid kits and up-to-date pricing information, contact the Distribution Centre at To determine the number of first aiders required at a site and the type of first aid kits required, refer to Appendix I: Table 1: First Aid Training and Supplies Minimum Requirements for Schools and Central Services Departments. 2

3 5. A Type P first aid kit is required for staff that uses their vehicle as a workplace (e.g., maintenance staff, consultants). 6. Minimum requirements may differ if there are students working in district schools or facilities under work experience programs. For more information, contact a district Occupational Health and Safety Consultant. 7. All staff must have access to the first aid kit(s), these kits should not contain a logbook to record all injuries and illnesses, as this may contravene the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. Injuries and illnesses should be recorded on separate record sheets (First Aid Record) and maintained in a confidential area by a designated person. Guidelines for Meeting Legislative Compliance The Alberta Occupational Health and Safety Code requires each workplace to: have the required number of trained and certified staff to attend to the first aid needs of staff; have first aid kits and other equipment such as blankets; have signage or other means indicating the location of first aid supplies and certified first aiders; record all injuries regardless of whether first aid is administered; provide emergency baths, showers or eye-wash equipment if corrosive or other chemicals harmful to the eyes or skin are used in the workplace; provide a room or designated area for first aid services if more than 99 staff is regularly present in the workplace. Required Services and Equipment As previously noted schools and other locations should determine the required number and training level of the first aiders and the contents of the first aid kits. This is dependent upon the total number of staff, students, parents and volunteers who are regularly on the premises. To determine the number of trained staff and first aid kits required for your particular location, refer to (Appendix I)-Table 1: First Aid Training and Supplies Minimum Requirements for Schools and Central Services Departments. An updated list of the required contents of each kit is outlined in Table 2: Required Contents of First Aid Kits (Appendix II). First aid kits and replacement supplies are available through the Distribution Centre or other suppliers. Signs should be posted throughout the premises, indicating the names of trained first aid personnel and the location of first aid services, supplies and equipment. 3

4 If signs are not practical, building occupants should be informed by other means such as written documents and verbal instruction. Emergency Conveyance An emergency conveyance municipal or commercial ambulance must be readily available to a workplace. For outlying schools, if an ambulance cannot reach the workplace within 10 or 15 minutes, alternate means of emergency transportation shall be provided. An individual with a serious illness or injury shall be accompanied by at least one person other than the operator of the emergency conveyance while being transported, and that person must have the qualifications of at least a valid Emergency First Aid Certificate. First Aid Record Keeping The names and qualifications of all personnel with valid first aid training certificates must be communicated to all staff and students in the building. The First Aid Training Log included at the end of this guideline can be used for this purpose and posted in strategic places. The log can also be downloaded from the district intranet. In addition, all injuries must be recorded on a First Aid Record. A blank record form is included at the end of this guideline or can be downloaded from the district intranet. The following data must be entered for each injury: Injured worker s full name Name and qualifications of the first aider providing treatment Date and time of the injury or illness Date and time injury or illness reported Description of the injury or illness, location where it occurred and description of the cause First aid treatment provided Blank Work Related Incident Form should be kept in the first aid kits and in other areas accessible to all staff. Once a record has been completed, the form should be forwarded to a person (e.g. principal, supervisor, administrative assistant) designated by the school or central services location. The designated person shall keep the completed forms in a confidential location for at least three years and shall present the records to an authorized government inspector upon request. Other Considerations Regarding the Administration of First Aid 4

5 Field Trips The revised district field trip regulation specifies, Where required by law or deemed appropriate by the principal, the supervision of students shall include individuals suitably trained in first aid. Under the Alberta Occupational Health and Safety Code, first aid requirements are established based on the number of staff or workers present at a worksite. At Edmonton Public Schools, a worksite may be a classroom, vehicle or field trip venue and also includes the presence of students. For field trips, the minimum legal requirement based on numbers of staff requires at least one emergency first aider when 2-10 staff are present. When the number of staff increases from at least one emergency first aider and one standard first aider must be present. Since there are no provincial regulations governing first aid requirements for volunteers or students on field trips, administrators are advised to first, count the number of volunteers supervising students as staff (see above paragraph) and second, also consider the number of students and nature of risk involved in the field trip. Table 1 (Appendix I), which factors in the number of students, can be used as a guideline to ensure that the appropriate first aid training and supplies are available to meet the needs of all people on a field trip (e.g. staff, students, adult volunteers). Individuals suitably trained in first aid include staff members, volunteer supervisors or others authorized by the principal that have valid first aid certificates. Principals must verify that first aid training is up to date before granting authorization. Designated first aid providers must be readily accessible throughout the duration of the field trip. In addition to trained supervisors, bus drivers or employees at the field trip who have valid first aid training may be used to compliment training needs. Many venues offer access to first aid supplies and services during school field trips. Arrangements to utilize supplies, trained bus drivers or personnel at the field trip site should be established and agreed upon prior to the field trip. For small or low risk field trips (e.g. those involving one staff member or within walking distance from the school) meeting the provisions outlined in Table 1 may not be practical or necessary. In all cases, principals or their designates (e.g., coaches) must conduct a hazard assessment prior to each type of field trip to determine the appropriate level of first aid training and supplies required. In some situations, if the field trips are repetitive (e.g., school basketball games) then one hazard assessment may be sufficient. In this situation, schools may consider organizing amongst themselves where the host school will provide the first aid supplies and trained staff. In other situations, field trips may present enhanced or unique first aid needs requiring additional specialized knowledge, equipment, and supplies (e.g. wilderness trips). If a 5

6 field trip into a wilderness area is planned, the St. John Ambulance Official Wilderness First Aid Guide can be used as a resource. The hazard assessment for field trips should consider variables such as: Number of staff and students participating Risk assessment (potential hazards at the site) Remoteness of the site and communications access to emergency assistance Duration of the field trip Organization at the site (for example, groups spread out in various locations) Whether the field trip venue has staff trained in first aid Age and nature (e.g., behaviors or other special needs) of students Health status of staff and students involved in the field trip (e.g., individuals with asthma, severe allergies, etc.). For additional assistance in assessing first aid requirements for field trips contact Leadership Services or a district Occupational Health and Safety Consultant. Resuscitators and Inhalators If resuscitators, inhalators, or any type of oxygen therapy equipment will be used in the workplace, principals or central services administrators are advised to contact an Occupational Health and Safety Consultant. Blankets Where reference is made to "blankets" in Table 1 at least one of these blankets should be of a woven fabric such as wool, polyester, or other material. In addition to providing warmth, such blankets can also be used for positioning or immobilizing the limbs or head during care and treatment. Emergency Eyewash Equipment Emergency eyewash and personal eyewash stations should be located in areas where corrosive chemicals are used. Emergency eyewash stations are defined as devices used to irrigate and flush the eyes and provide continuous flushing fluid to both eyes at a minimum of 1.5 liters per minute for 15 minutes. Personal eyewash equipment (e.g., portable squeeze bottles) do not meet the standard for emergency eyewash equipment. During an emergency, personal eyewashes can be used during the transport of an injured person to a proper emergency eyewash station. Installation of at least one emergency eyewash station is required somewhere in the facility, preferably in areas where corrosive chemicals are used such as science, automotive or construction technology shops, and custodial boiler or utility rooms. Building occupants should be aware of the locations of the emergency and personal eyewash stations. Emergency and personal eyewash stations must be maintained and checked on a regular basis. Commercial eyewash solution that contains a preservative is available from the Distribution Centre for personal eyewash stations (check expiration period). 6

7 For further information regarding eyewash stations, please contact a district Occupational Health and Safety Consultant. Medications First Aid kits should not contain any prescription or non-prescription drugs. The inclusion of symptom-relief medication(s) is beyond the scope of the Regulation. The routine inclusion of prescription and over-the-counter medication(s) in first aid kits is not recommended as there is no established benefit and there is a potential for problems. If an administrator determines that it is necessary to provide over-the-counter medication(s) in a first aid kit, a physician should be asked to prepare procedures to cover their use. In a school, student medications, instructions for administering the medication and a medication logbook shall be stored separately from a first aid kit, preferably in a locked cupboard along with student medical records and any special instructions. For additional information refer to the district policy on administration of medication and the guideline titled Guidelines for Student Focused Medication Management in Schools. Portable Kits Where minor injuries occur on a frequent basis, e.g., playgrounds, special needs classrooms, or on field trips first aid kits can be broken down into smaller kits (fanny packs) for portability and immediate access. Blank Work Related Incident Form should also be included for recording injury and treatment information. Training Requirements As outlined in Appendix I-Table 1: First Aid Training and Supplies Minimum Requirements for Schools and Central Services Departments, there are two levels of qualification required: Emergency First Aid Certificate Standard First Aid Certificate All first aid training must be delivered through a training program that has been approved by the provincial government s Joint First Aid Training Standards Board. An up-to-date list of district approved first aid trainers is available on the Purchasing and Contract Services website. It should be noted that first aid certificates are valid for three years. Staff should be retrained prior to their certificates expiring. 7

8 Staff to Consider for Training Emergency First Aid Certificate Teachers Clerical staff Playground supervisors Food service staff Lunchroom Aides Custodial staff Teacher Assistants Maintenance and Distribution Centre staff Field Trip Supervisors Standard First Aid Certificate Career and Technology Studies (CTS) teachers Science teachers Physical Education teachers, coaches, teacher assistants Special Needs teachers, teacher assistants Lab Technicians Head Custodians Lunchroom Supervisors Food Service supervisors Administrative Assistants Maintenance Project Chargehands The following staff should be considered for additional training to supplement the Emergency or Standard First Aid Certificate: Early Childhood First Aid Certificate Kindergarten to year three teachers and teacher assistants Athletic First Aid Certificate Physical Education teachers, coaches, teacher assistants Implementation 1. Review the requirements under the legislation, as outlined in this document. A summary First Aid Checklist is provided at the end of this guideline to assist you in complying with first aid requirements. 8

9 2. Determine if your location has the required number of trained first aiders and first aid supplies, as outlined in Table 1: First Aid Training and Supplies Minimum Requirements for Schools and Central Services Departments (Appendix I ). 3. If staff needs to be trained, ensure the training course provided by a certified instructor and is approved by the provincial government s Joint First Aid Training Standards Board. For an up to date list of district approved trainers and pricing go to the Purchasing and Contract services website Complete a First Aid Training Log, listing all trained first aiders in your location, and assign a designated person to maintain this record. 5. Determine if current first aid kits meet the requirements outlined in Table 2: Required Contents of First Aid Kits (Appendix II ). 6. Order new first aid kits from the Distribution Centre or other supplier, and assign a designated person to maintain these kits in working order. 7. Remove any bound first aid record books from first aid kits and replace with blank copies of the district Work Related Incident Form form. Assign a designated person to maintain all records which should be retained in a confidential location for a period of three years. 8. Post signs in key locations (e.g., office, washrooms, main bulletin boards), that provide the names of trained first aiders and the location of these individuals, first aid kits, and if necessary, the location of eyewash stations and designated first aid rooms. 9. Review the need for emergency eyewash stations and ensure they are properly installed and maintained. A list of Frequently Asked Questions is provided (Appendix III) to assist you in complying with the first aid requirements. If you have any questions about first aid requirements contact a district Occupational Health and Safety Consultant, Personnel Services. 9

10 Estimated # persons in school or facility at any time of day * TABLE 1 FIRST AID TRAINING AND SUPPLIES Minimum Requirements for Schools and Central Services Departments Number / qualifications of first aid trained staff required on site at all times Appendix 1 Supplies and Equipment Requirements First Aid Station (Centrally located and readily accessible) Other Stations (e.g. CTS shops, science labs, boiler room, athletic areas) Comments/Examples 1 Recommended only Type P Kit Staff who use their vehicles as a worksite emergency first aider No. 1 Kit Work Related Incident Form Log No. 1 Kit Eyewash station or portable eyewash Custodial staff working afternoon shifts. Maintenance staff driving district vehicles emergency first aider 1 standard first aider emergency first aiders 1 standard first aider emergency first aiders 2 standard first aiders 200 or more 2 emergency first aiders 2 standard first aiders 1 additional standard first aider for every increment of people. Field Trips Centre for Education No. 2 Kit Work Related Incident Form Log No. 3 Kit Two blankets Eyewash Station Work Related Incident Form Log Designated area for first aid No. 3 Kit Two blankets Eyewash Station Work Related Incident Form Log Designated area for first aid No. 3 Kit Four Blankets Eyewash Station Work Related Incident Form Log For all field trips principal determines number of trained first aiders required based on a risk assessment Legal requirements: If 2-10 staff present-1 emergency first aider required. If staff present- 1 emergency first aider and one standard first aider required. 1 emergency first aider 2 standard first aiders 1 additional standard first aider for every increment of people. No. 1 Kit(fanny pack) No. 2 Kit (fanny pack) Designated area No. 3 Kit Four Blankets Eyewash Station Work Related Incident Form Log No. 1 Kit Eyewash station or portable eyewash No. 1 Kit Eyewash station or portable eyewash No. 2 Kit Eyewash station or portable eyewash No 2 Kit Eyewash or portable eyewash Eyewash or portable Eyewash Minimum of one #2 Kit per floor Staff PD days A school with 201 occupants requires 2 emergency and 3 standard first aiders. Trained first aider(s) must be readily available throughout trip duration. Consideration beyond minimum requirements should be given for field trips involving large groups; overnight stays or high risk activities. Based on requirements for an administrative site. * Includes after hours 1. This table is based on the minimum legal requirements for workers in closed medium hazard worksites as specified in Schedule 2, Table 7 of the OHS Code. Schools should estimate the total number of staff, students, and volunteers present at the worksite to their determine requirements for first aid training and supplies. 2. First Aid kits and upgrades are available through the Distribution Centre. Note: According to the ANSI Standard Z American National Standard for Emergency Eyewash and Shower Equipment portable squeeze bottles are not classified as eyewash stations. True eyewash stations are plumbed units on a water line which can provide enough water for continuous irrigation of the exposed eye for 15 minutes. It is strongly recommended that at least one eyewash be installed in the central first aid area. Portable eyewash bottles should be available in areas where corrosive chemicals are used e.g. Science, CTS; custodial work areas. Portable squeeze bottles can be used in satellite areas to help transport an injured person to a proper eyewash station. For more information contact an Occupational health and Safety Consultant in Personnel Support Services at or

11 3. First aid training agencies must be approved by the Alberta Government and meet the requirements of the Joint First Aid Training Standards Board. Training must be renewed every 3 years. District approved courses are on the Purchasing and Contract Services website. 4. Designated area means a place where supplies and equipment can be kept clean and accessible and where first aid services can be easily administered. APPENDIX II TABLE 2 REQUIRED CONTENTS OF FIRST AID KITS No. 1 First Aid Kit In addition to the first aid supplies that would be found at a central location in the building, it is recommended that CTS and science labs, physical education areas and boiler rooms have a No. 1 First Aid Kit. A No. 1 Kit consists of the following: a antiseptic cleansing towelettes, individually packaged; b sterile adhesive dressings, individually packaged; c cm x 10 cm sterile gauze pads, individually packaged; d cm x 10 cm sterile compress dressings, with ties, individually packaged; e cm x 15 cm sterile compress dressings, with ties, individually packaged; f. 2 - conform gauze bandages cm; g. 3 - cotton triangular bandages; h. 5 - safety pins - assorted sizes; i. 1 - pair of scissors; j. 1 - pair of tweezers; k mm x 4.5 m roll of adhesive tape; l. 1 - crepe tension bandage - 75 mm; m. 1 - artificial resuscitation barrier device with a one-way valve; n. 4 - pairs of disposable surgical gloves; o. 1 - first aid instruction manual (condensed); p. 1 - inventory of kit contents; 11

12 q. 1 - waterproof waste bag. No. 2 First Aid Kit A No. 2 Kit consists of the following: a. 10 antiseptic cleansing towelettes, individually packaged; b. 50 sterile adhesive dressings, individually packaged; c cm x 10 cm sterile gauze pads, individually packaged; d cm x 10 cm sterile compress dressings, with ties, individually packaged; e cm x 15 cm sterile compress dressings, with ties, individually packaged; f cm x 25 cm sterile abdominal dressing; g. 2 conform gauze bandages 7.5 cm; h. 4 cotton triangular bandages; i. 8 safety pins assorted sizes; j. 1 pair of scissors; k. 1 pair of tweezers; l mm x 4.5 m roll of adhesive tape; m. 2 crepe tension bandages 75 mm; n. 1 artificial resuscitation barrier device with a one-way valve; o. 6 pairs of disposable surgical gloves; p. 1 sterile, dry eye dressing; q. 1 first aid instruction manual (condensed); r. 1 inventory of kit contents; s. 1 waterproof waste bag. 12

13 No. 3 First Aid Kit A No. 3 Kit consists of the following: a antiseptic cleansing towelettes, individually packaged; b sterile adhesive dressings, individually packaged c cm x 10 cm sterile gauze pads, individually packaged; d cm x 10 cm sterile compress dressings, with ties, individually packaged; e cm x 15 cm sterile compress dressings, with ties, individually packaged; f cm x 25 cm sterile abdominal dressings, individually packaged; g. 6 - conform gauze bandages cm; h cotton triangular bandages; i safety pins - assorted sizes; j. 1 - pair of scissors; k. 1 - pair of tweezers; l mm x 4.5 m rolls of adhesive tape; m. 4 - crepe tension bandages - 75 mm; n. 1 - artificial resuscitation barrier device with a one-way valve; o pairs of disposable surgical gloves; p. 2 - sterile, dry eye dressings, individually packaged; q. 1 - tubular finger bandage with applicator; r. 1 - first aid instruction manual (condensed); s. 1 - inventory of kit contents; t. 2 - waterproof waste bags. 13

14 Type P Kit A Type P Kit consists of the following: a. 10 sterile adhesive dressings, assorted sizes, individually packaged; b cm x 10 cm sterile gauze pads, individually packaged; c cm x 10 cm sterile compress dressing, with ties; d. 5 antiseptic cleansing towelettes, individually packaged; e. 1 cotton triangular bandage; f. 1 waterproof waste bag; g. 1 pair of disposable surgical gloves. 14

15 First Aid Training and Supplies APPENDIX III Frequently Asked Questions What is the purpose of the first aid requirements of the Alberta Occupational Health and Safety Code? The purpose of the requirements related to first aid is to ensure that every work site in the province has the equipment, supplies, and trained staff to support an ill or injured person until complete medical care and treatment can be administered. The code specifies minimum requirements but in some cases schools or decision units may find it necessary to exceed these requirements depending on the nature of their programs and environment. What are the minimum requirements for first aid training and supplies? Although the code applies to workers at worksites, the district has established that the number of building occupants (e.g. staff, students, volunteers, etc.) determines the minimum requirements for first aid supplies and trained personnel. Table 1 - First Aid Training and Supplies: Minimum Requirements for School and Central Services Departments lists the minimum supplies and trained personnel that must be available to respond to any acute illness or injury that might reasonably be expected to occur. When selecting individuals for training, emphasis should be given to staff who are readily accessible (e.g., custodial or office staff); staff who work with special needs children; and staff who work in higher hazard areas such as science or CTS labs. It is up to each school or decision unit to select and train the appropriate number of staff. Examples: Example 1: Elementary School with 201 staff, students and volunteers on site. Referring to Table 1 the school would require 2 emergency first aiders, 2 standard first aiders, plus 1 standard first aider for every additional increment of 1 to 100 workers above 200 workers. In the case of 201 occupants, the school would be required to provide 2 emergency first aiders and 3 standard first aiders. The school would also need to provide a No. 3 first aid kit and a designated area for first aid services. Additional kits (No. 2) should also be provided in science labs, boiler rooms and athletic areas. Example 2: High school with 1500 staff, students, and volunteers. Referring to Table 1, the school would require 2 emergency first aiders, 2 standard first aiders, plus 13 additional standard first aiders (one for every additional increment of 1 to 100 above 200 occupants). The school would also need to provide a No. 3 first aid kit and a designated area for first aid services. Additional kits (No. 2) must also be provided in CTS shops, science labs, boiler rooms and athletic areas. If the school has students participating in an onsite work 15

16 experience or vocational program contact a district occupational health and safety consultant to determine if additional supplies and services are required. Example 3: Two maintenance workers who work together transporting equipment to schools using a district vehicle. In this case the vehicle is considered a work site and at least one of the drivers would have to have emergency first aid training. The vehicle must also contain a No. 1 first aid kit. What are the minimum first aid requirements for field trips? The revised district field trip regulation specifies, Where required by law or deemed appropriate by the principal, the supervision of students shall include individuals suitably trained in first aid. Legal requirements for first aid training are established based on the number of staff or workers present at a worksite. At Edmonton Public Schools, a worksite may be a classroom, vehicle or field trip venue and also includes the presence of students. For field trips, the minimum legal requirement based on numbers of staff requires at least one emergency first aider when 2-10 staff are present. When the number of staff increases from at least one emergency first aider and one standard first aider must be present. Since there are no provincial regulations governing first aid requirements for volunteers or students on field trips, administrators are advised to first, count volunteers as staff (see above paragraph) and second, consider the number of students and nature of risk involved in the field trip. Table 1(Appendix I) of the document titled Occupational Health and Safety Compliance Guideline First Aid can be used as a guideline to ensure that the appropriate first aid training and supplies are available to meet the needs of both staff and students. Individuals suitably trained in first aid include staff members, volunteer supervisors or others authorized by the principal that have valid first aid certificates. Principals must verify that first aid training is up to date before granting authorization. Designated first aid providers must be readily accessible throughout the duration of the field trip. In addition to trained supervisors, bus drivers or employees at the field trip who have valid first aid training may be used to compliment training needs. Many venues offer access to first aid supplies and services during school field trips. Arrangements to utilize supplies, trained bus drivers or personnel at the field trip site should be established and agreed upon prior to the field trip. For small or low risk field trips (e.g. those involving one staff member or within walking distance from the school) meeting the provisions outlined in Table 1 may not be practical or necessary. In all cases, principals or their designates (e.g., coaches) should conduct a risk assessment prior to each type of field trip to determine the appropriate level of first aid training and supplies required. In some situations, if the field trips are repetitive (e.g., school basketball games) then one hazard assessment may be sufficient. In this situation, schools may consider organizing amongst themselves where the host school will provide the first aid supplies and trained staff. 16

17 In other situations, field trips may present enhanced or unique first aid needs requiring additional specialized knowledge, equipment, and supplies (e.g. wilderness trips). If a field trip into a wilderness area is planned, the St. John Ambulance Official Wilderness First Aid Guide can be used as a resource. The risk assessment for field trips should consider variables such as: Number of staff and students participating Risk assessment (potential hazards at the site) Remoteness of the site and communications access to emergency assistance Duration of the field trip Organization at the site (for example, groups spread out in various locations) Whether the field trip venue has staff trained in first aid Age and nature (e.g., behaviors or other special needs) of students Health status of staff and students involved in the field trip (e.g., individuals with asthma, severe allergies, etc.). Should you require a bus driver with first aid training for a field trip, you should request that the driver have a valid Emergency First Aid certificate at the time of selecting a carrier. Carriers under contract to the district: Briggs Brothers Student Transportation Ltd. Golden Arrow School and Charter Buses Ltd. Laidlaw Transit Ltd. Red Arrow Express Ltd. What are the minimum requirements for first aid supplies on field trips? The code requires a # 1 first aid kit to be readily accessible when the number of staff on a field trip exceeds 2. If the number of staff is between a # 2 first aid kit is required. When legal requirements do not apply, the minimum first aid supplies recommended for field trips is a #1 first aid kit. An inventory of required contents for the #1 kit is listed in Appendix II of the district guideline titled Occupational Health and Safety Compliance Guideline- First Aid. The contents of the kit can be put into a fanny pack for greater portability. First aid kits should also contain Work Related Incident Form forms to record injury and treatment information. The Work Related Incident Form/Employee s First Report of Injury/Illness (FAR) form is available on the district Intranet or by contacting an Occupational Health and Safety consultant in Personnel Support Services. Consideration beyond the minimum requirements should be given in the case of unique first aid needs that may be presented by larger field trips, and trips involving overnight stays and/or more hazardous activities. First aid kits and supplies are available from the Distribution Centre. 17

18 Where can first aid training be obtained and what does it cost? First aid training can only be provided by agencies that have entered into a written agreement with the Alberta Government and meet the standards adopted by the newly created Joint First Aid Training Standards Board. A list of accredited training providers can be found on the Purchasing and Contract Services website at: Service providers can generally accommodate most training requests during and outside regular working hours. The cost will vary with the service provider, the level of certification, and the number of individuals being trained. What if the school leases part of their facility to another worksite or tenant? Although school administrators are not legally required to provide first aid services to contractors, tenants and rental groups they may choose to enter into an agreement with these parties to individually or jointly provide first aid services. Any agreement or sharing of responsibilities and resources must be described in a written agreement, and must be based on the total number of persons or workers at the work site. What are the additional requirements for first aid equipment and supplies? Administrators are responsible for ensuring that first aid services, equipment, and supplies are readily available at the work site. Equipment and supplies must be quickly and easily accessible during all working hours, including after hours when custodial or other staff may be in the building. Equipment and supplies must be ready for use and kept in a clean, dry and serviceable condition. The containers in which they are stored, must be clearly marked to indicate that they are intended for first aid, and staff must know where to find them. First aid kits and kit upgrades meeting the requirements of the new regulation are available through the Distribution Centre. Where should supplies be located? The code makes reference to a "designated area for first aid services". This means that supplies and equipment must be kept in a place that is clean and accessible and where first aid services can be easily administered. This designated area could be a stand-alone room or simply the corner of an office. How do I inform staff, students and building occupants of available first aid services and supplies? Signs should be posted to indicate the location of first aid services, equipment, and supplies. The signs should be visible and easy to understand. Where signs are not practicable, staff and building occupants must be informed of the location of the services, equipment, and supplies by other means such as printed materials or verbal instructions. 18

19 What Work Related Incident Forms are schools and worksites required to keep? Each school is required to maintain a record of staff that has valid first aid training certificates. This record will allow administrators to keep track of expiry dates, and those staff members who are qualified first aiders. Staff and students are required to report any physical injury or sudden occurrence of illness that is school or work related. The administrator should designate an individual to whom the verbal report is made e.g., first aider, supervisor, administrative assistant or some other individual. Prompt reporting ensures complete and accurate information and allows the injury or illness to be assessed and treated as necessary. Such information is also useful in injury surveillance. Similar, recurrent injuries reported by several people may suggest the need to change some aspect of the work site or the tasks performed by staff or students. The written Work Related Incident Form must include at least 6 categories of information: the name of the student or staff member; the name and qualifications of the person giving first aid; the date and time of the acute illness or injury; the date and time the acute illness or injury was reported; a description of the acute illness or injury, where it occurred and the cause; the nature of first aid provided. A Work Related Incident Form form that meets the above criteria is available from Personnel Support Services. Blank record forms should be kept in the first aid kit. The practice of using bound Work Related Incident Form books should be discontinued as it may violate the Freedom of Information and Privacy Act. Completed individual records should be sent to the individual designated by the administrator as the keeper of all completed Work Related Incident Forms and retained for the minimum three-year period required by the new regulation. Copies of the record form must be given to the injured worker and forwarded to Personnel Support Services on the day of the injury. If the injury results in medical aid or time loss to staff that are covered by Workers Compensation (WCB), Personnel Support Services will notify the WCB and then contact the worker to assist them in completing the required WCB Worker s Report of Injury or Illness. For injury accidents involving students, the Finance Department must be notified using the EPS Accident Form developed by the Finance Department. How long must Work Related Incident Forms be kept? Each completed Work Related Incident Form must be retained for a minimum of 3 years from the date on which the illness or injury occurred. Where records may have previously been kept in a bound logbook, the entire book must be retained for a minimum of 3 years from the date of the final entry. The cause of the illness or injury may be unknown at the time it is being treated. Every effort should be made to determine the cause within a reasonable period of time and add this information to the illness or injury record. Even if no first aid is administered, an illness or injury reported by a student, staff member, or building occupant should be recorded. 19

20 Who is allowed access to Work Related Incident Forms? Due to privacy requirements in the legislation, completed records should not be kept in the first aid kit. Only the injured person, those individuals involved in medical treatment, work site inspections, accident investigations, record maintenance for the health and safety program, and the Workers Compensation Board may review Work Related Incident Forms. What are the requirements for transporting an injured person to a medical facility? If an injured person is transported to a hospital or medical facility by means other than an ambulance, they must be accompanied by at least one trained first aider other than the operator of the transportation. Are there any additional recommended first aid practices for schools and district worksites? The following practices are recommended but not a mandatory part of the First Aid Regulation: Blankets: Where reference is made to "blankets" in Table 1 at least one of these blankets should be of a woven fabric such as wool, polyester, or other material. In addition to providing warmth, such blankets can also be used for positioning or immobilizing the limbs or head during care and treatment. Emergency Eyewash Stations: Emergency eyewash and personal eyewash stations should be located in areas where corrosive chemicals are used. Emergency eyewash stations are defined as devices used to irrigate and flush the eyes and provide continuous flushing fluid to both eyes at a minimum of 1.5 liters per minute for 15 minutes. A personal eyewash station (e.g., portable squeeze bottle) does not meet the standard for emergency eyewash equipment. They can support emergency eyewash equipment by delivering immediate flushing fluid but must not replace them. During an emergency, personal eyewashes can be used during the transport of an injured person to a proper emergency eyewash station. Installation of at least one emergency eyewash station is required somewhere in the facility, preferably in areas where corrosive chemicals are used such as science, automotive or construction technology shops, and custodial boiler or utility rooms. Building occupants should be aware of the locations of the emergency and personal eyewash stations. Emergency and personal eyewash stations must be maintained and checked on a regular basis. Fresh eyewash solution is available from the Distribution Centre for personal eyewash stations (check expiration period). Medications: First Aid kits should not contain any prescription or non-prescription drugs. The inclusion of symptom-relief medication(s) is beyond the scope of the Regulation. 20

21 The routine inclusion of prescription and over-the-counter medication(s) in first aid kits is not recommended as there is no established benefit and there is a potential for problems. If an administrator determines that it is necessary to provide over-the-counter medication(s) in a first aid kit, a physician should be asked to prepare procedures to cover their use. Oxygen Equipment: First aiders may use oxygen therapy equipment to assist breathing and provide basic life support during a medical emergency if they receive proper training on use of the equipment. If oxygen therapy equipment is purchased for the first aid room, ensure that it meets the requirements of CSA Standard CAN/CSA Z305.3-M87 Pressure Regulators, Gauges, and Flow-Metering Devices. "No smoking" signs should be placed on oxygen delivery equipment. Oxygen cylinders must be hydrostatically tested every 5 years and the test date marked on the cylinder. Oxygen tank labels must include a Drug Identification Number (DIN) and the fabricator s name and address. Only suppliers licensed to refill oxygen bottles can do so. For additional information on injury reporting and first aid requirements contact a district Occupational Health and Safety Consultant, Personnel Support Services. 21

22 FIRST AID TRAINING LOG Enter the name of all staff members who have valid first aid training certificates and post in a visible location. Qualifications and expiry dates should also be entered. A designated person must maintain this log sheet and building occupants must be kept informed on who is trained in first aid. School/D.U. Administrator School Year Date Date Name (please include the most likely location this person can be found) Courses and Certificates Expires Location Location Location Location Location Location 22

23 First Aid Checklist Training and Supplies: Emergency and Personal Eyewash Stations: The appropriate number of personnel with valid certificates for first aid training is available at the worksite. See Table 1 of the district guideline titled Occupational Health and Safety Compliance Guideline- First Aid. 1 First aid training is provided by government approved agencies. Training is current and renewed at least every 3 years. A list of district approved first aid trainers is available through Purchasing and Contract Services. dtraining.cfm A list of employees with valid first aid training certificates is posted and/or communicated to building occupants. The required first aid services, equipment and supplies are quickly and easily accessible during all hours the building is occupied (includes staff working after hours). First aid equipment, supplies and Work Related Incident Form forms are kept in a designated area where first aid services can be administered. 2 First aid equipment is stored in protective containers that are clearly marked to indicate they are intended for first aid. A designated person has been assigned to routinely maintain first aid supplies, equipment and file Work Related Incident Forms. Signs are posted that indicate the location of first aid supplies and equipment. If signs are not practical, building occupants are informed by other means such as written documents and verbal instruction. First aid kits do not contain any prescribed or over the counter medications. At least one emergency eyewash station is located in the facility. 3 Eyewash stations are also available in areas where corrosive chemicals are used (e.g. boiler rooms, science and CTS labs). Eyewash stations are marked with clear signage to flag their location. Eyewash stations are unobstructed and located near the work area that creates the hazard. Eyewash stations are located away from electrical sources and within 10 seconds travel distance from the work area. Eyewash stations are checked monthly and solutions are regularly changed. Work Related Incident Forms and Documentation: First aid kits contain blank single page forms to record all work related physical injuries or sudden occurrence of illness. Work Related Incident Forms are completed for all work related injuries/illness and copies are kept in a confidential area with a designated person. A copy of the completed Work Related Incident Form is provided to the injured/ill worker and faxed to Employee Health Services, Personnel at Work Related Incident Forms are retained at the school or worksite for a minimum of 3 years from the date of injury. 4 1 Contact Employee Health Services, Personnel Support Services for additional information. 2 Blank First Aid Records are available on the district intranet or from Employee Health Services Personal eyewash stations (e.g. portable squeeze bottles) do not meet the required standard for emergency eyewash but they can be used while in transit to an emergency eyewash station or medical facility. Emergency showers and eyewash equipment are required to meet ANSI Standard Z Only the injured person and those involved in medical treatment, work site inspections, accident investigations, record maintenance for the health and safety program or the Workers Compensation Board may review first aid and injury records. Rev: Sept 2005

24 Work Related Incident Form All district employees and volunteers are required to complete this form when injured or ill as a result of carrying out work duties or if pain develops as a result of ongoing work tasks. Injured Person s Name : Home Phone: School or Location of Incident: Date of Injury: Time of Injury: Date Reported: Time Reported Who was the incident reported to? If not reported on same date of injury explain: Is this incident related to work duties? Yes No Names of Witness(es) Category: Body Part Injured: Type of Injury: Custodial Exempt Maintenance Support Teacher Other Describe what happened: Head Face Teeth Neck Back Ribs Trunk Fingers Hand Wrist Arm Elbow Shoulder Toes Foot Ankle Leg Knee Hip Other Chemical or Biological Exposure Burn Concussion Cut Bruise Dislocation Fracture Puncture Repetitive Motion Scrape Sprain/Strain Other This section to be completed by the employee and their supervisor. Type of Incident: First Aid Medical Aid Lost Time from Work No Lost Time Other Was first aid administered? Yes No Name of person who provided first aid. Describe first aid provided: Qualifications of Provider: Emergency First Aid Standard First Aid Nurse Other Has the employee seen a doctor or other health care professional? Yes No Is the injury likely to result in time away from work or require treatment beyond the day of the injury? Yes No If yes and the employee is covered by WCB, has the WCB Employer s and Worker s Report of Injury been completed and faxed to Employee Health Services? If not, please complete and fax to Employee Health Services within 24 hours of the incident (Fax: ). If there is time lost from work beyond the day of the incident, what was the first day off work? ( D/M/Y) Has a copy of this Work Related Incident Form been faxed to Employee Health Services? If not please fax within 24 hours of the incident (Fax ). Yes No Has the employee been given a copy of the Work Related Incident Form? Yes No Copy Declined Has the employee been offered a copy of the WCB Employer s Report of Injury? Yes No Copy Declined Date: Employee s Signature: Administrator/Supervisor s Signature: Yes No 1. For more information on injury reporting contact Employee Health Services at If hospitalization is required please notify a district OHS Consultant, Employee Health Services at , or File the completed Work Related Incident Form at the worksite in a confidential location for at least 3 years. Rev: Sept 2005