30th July 2020

We all know first aid is important and, in some states, it is mandatory for workers to have CPR and LVR currency. For states where this is not mandatory, regulators are reinforcing the need to complete a Risk Assessment prior to undertaking work tasks.

Regardless of state requirements, in the electrical industry it is a ‘no brainer’ that first aid, CPR and LVR should be a part of all worker training given the inherent hazards and risks we may be exposed to at the workplace.

But don’t just think about the value of first aid in the workplace.

Recently Wayne Kennedy, an MEA staff member was at a family gathering. Towards the end of the night as he was leaving, he was confronted with a family member who collapsed, was unconscious and not breathing.

Not one person at the gathering knew what to do.

Take a minute now and ask yourself this question honestly – if a family member, work colleague, or a member of the public were unconscious and not breathing in front of you right now, would you know what to do?

Luckily, Wayne knew first aid and helped immediately in the critical minutes after the incident. After some time, he was able to get his family member breathing again, placed them in the recovery position and provided vital information to paramedics over the phone as he waited for the ambulance to arrive.

Master Electricians Australia understands and is committed to the importance of knowing first aid. After hearing this story, CEO Malcolm Richards has led the way by encouraging and offering for all staff to be trained in first aid.

If you only do one course this year, consider doing a first aid course. You never know, it just may save a life.