When serious injuries or illnesses occur, people contact the emergency medical technicians in the area to get the care they need. These medical professionals are subjected to a host of conditions that can lead to them suffering from injuries. Still, they will get out there to help the citizens who need their assistance.
It’s imperative that the companies who hire these medics have protocols in place that help to keep them safe. There are several points that they must address when they’re working to keep the employees safe.
What are the common hazards emergency medical technicians face?
The nature of this job means that there are constant risks. Some of these include:
- Musculoskeletal injuries from patient transfers
- Assault and other forms of violence
- Falls, slips, and trips
- Motor vehicle crashes
- Exposure to biohazards and other harmful substances
There are some simple ways that medics can stay safe. They must be provided with the appropriate personal protective equipment and other items, such as working stretchers that can help to prevent injuries. They must also be trained for handling situations they’re likely to come across. Additionally, there should be protocols in place for what they need to do if there’s a potentially violent situation. This might include staying away from the scene until police note that it is safe to proceed.
Any medic who suffers injuries while doing their job duties will need medical care themselves. This opens up the possibility of a workers’ compensation claim or other legal action, depending on the circumstances of the incident. Working with an attorney may be the best way to protect your interests and your future.
