This chapter reviews emergency procedures that are discussed in more detail in other publications. If you need more information on any of the contents of this chapter, contact EH&S with your questions at 823-5323.
Reporting an emergency: quick-reference
Call Police / Medical: 911
When reporting an emergency, include if possible:
Your name
Telephone number
Building
Floor
Room number
Condition of any injured people (unconscious,
burned, trapped)
Type of fire (if there is one).
Shock is a dangerous condition and can be fatal. Expect some degree of shock in any emergency. DO NOT move seriously-injured people unless they are in danger of further injury. Stay on the line if requested by the operator.
3.2. First Aid Treatment
This section deals with procedures for dealing with laboratory accidents.
3.2.1. Chemical spills on the body
WARNING
Do not use neutralizing chemicals or salves on body parts affected by a chemical spill!
If chemicals have been spilled over a large area of the body:
Quickly remove all contaminated clothing while using the safety shower. Immediately flood the exposed areas with cold water for at least 15 minutes. Resume if pain returns. Wash off chemicals by using a mild detergent or soap and water.
If chemicals have been spilled on a confined area of the skin:
Immediately flush with cold water and wash by using a mild detergent or soap and water. Remove any jewelry in the affected area. If a delayed action of the chemical is possible, obtain medical attention promptly.
Examples of chemicals harmful to the skin: ethyl bromide, hydrochloric acid, methyl bromide, and sodium hydroxide.
3.2.2. Chemicals in the eyes
If a chemical has been splashed into the eyes, wash out the eyes and inner surface of the eyelids with lots of water for 15 minutes.
Use an eyewash fountain, if available. Place the injured person on the back, hold the eyes open, and gently pour water into the eyes. If an eyewash fountain is not available, use the nearest available sink or spigot. See Figure 3.4 below for an example of flushing out chemicals in the eyes.
3.2.3. Poisoning
Quick-reference
If professional help cannot be reached immediately, call 911, request the poison control center, and follow their instructions.
If poisoning is suspected:
If the victim is conscious:
Do encourage the victim to drink water or milk immediately to dilute poison. At the same time call 911 and ask for the Poison Control Center for professional medical help. Describe the poisonous substance and the victim's condition. Ask for first aid instruction
Do administer any antidote recommended by Poison Control Center as soon as possible.
If the victim is unconscious, having convulsions, becomes nauseated or vomits:
Don't force fluids
Don't give any other first aid if the victim is unconscious or is having convulsions
Do get professional medical assistance. Apply rescue breathing techniques or CPR if necessary. If the victim is convulsing, protect from injury; loosen tight clothing if possible.
3.2.3.1. Vomiting poisons
Follow these guidelines for vomiting poisons:
Do not Induce vomiting if the poison is
Unknown
A corrosive substance (acid, cleaning fluid, lye, drain cleaner)
A petroleum product (gasoline, turpentine, paint thinner, lighter fluid)
Activated charcoal is used to absorb poisons in these situations.
Induce vomiting if the poison is known and is not a corrosive substance or petroleum product.
To induce vomiting:
Give an adult one ounce of syrup of ipecac (1/2 ounce for a child) followed by four or five glasses of water. If vomiting does not occur, repeat this procedure in 20 minutes
After the victim has vomited, follow with one ounce of powdered, activated charcoal in water, if available
Take the poison container (or vomitus if poison is unknown) with the victim to a hospital.
3.2.4. Burns and scalds
WARNING
If the clothing is on fire, do not let the person run. Running only fans the flames and intensifies the fire.
Help the individual to the floor and roll the person around to smother the flames
If a safety shower is immediately available, douse the person with water.
DON'T attempt to clean the burn or break blisters.
DON'T remove any clothing that sticks to burn.
DON'T apply grease, ointment, or medication to a severe burn.
DON'T use cotton or material with loose fibers to cover burns.
3.2.4.1. First degree burns
First degree burns -- redness or discoloration of skin surface; mild swelling and pain.
For treating first degree burns:
Apply cool, wet cloths or immerse in cool water. Do not use ice
Blot gently; apply a dry, sterile pad if necessary
Usually medical treatment is not necessary.
However, if severe symptoms exist, call for professional medical help.
Be alert for signs of shock.
3.2.4.2. Second degree burns
Second degree burns -- deep burn with red or mottled appearance; blisters; considerable pain and swelling; skin surface appears wet.
For treating second degree burns:
See treatment for first degree burns
In addition, if arms and legs are affected, elevate them above heart level. Burns may be deep and potentially serious requiring medical treatment depending on extent and location. Be alert for signs of shock and infection.
3.2.4.3. Third degree burns
WARNING
Call for medical assistance immediately. Be alert for signs of shock.
Third degree burns -- deep tissue destruction with a white or charred appearance; no pain.
3.2.5. Bleeding
For treatment of bleeding, act quickly:
Call for professional help immediately: call 911
Have victim lie down. Do not give the victim anything by mouth!
Elevate the injured limb higher than heart unless you suspect a broken bone
Control bleeding by applying direct pressure on the wound with a sterile pad or clean cloth
If bleeding is controlled by direct pressure, bandage firmly to protect wound. Check pulse to be sure bandage is not too tight
If bleeding is not controlled by use of direct pressure, apply a tourniquet only as a last resort
Call for professional help if you didn't do Step 1.
If you are bleeding and have no one to help you, call for professional medical help. Lie down, so your body weight applies pressure to the bleeding site.
3.2.6. Step-by-step wound care method to help prevent infection
Following this step-by-step wound care method can help prevent infection to injuries. When possible, wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before administering first aid.