Why businesses must prioritise medical emergency preparedness

According to the latest data from the Federated Employers Mutual Assurance Company (FEM), South Africa's construction industry alone reported 6 157 accidents in 2022. Of these, 48 were fatal, and 581 resulted in permanent disabilities. 

While these statistics shed light on the common workplace risks, it also highlighted how many businesses overlook the importance of being prepared for medical emergencies stemming from non-occupational incidents, such as sudden cardiac arrests or strokes — events that can be equally life-threatening.

In South Africa, the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Act mandates employers to create and maintain a safe working environment. 

This includes being fully prepared for emergencies, which often go beyond traditional workplace accidents. 

Coleen Daniel, ER24’s Corporate Sales Manager for Workplace Solutions, highlighted the importance of businesses not only focusing on accidents but also being ready for sudden health crises. 

"The OHS Act requires businesses to conduct regular training and drills, as well as review and update their emergency response plans at least twice a year," said Daniel.

Daniel outlined seven of the most common workplace medical emergencies and offers practical advice on how businesses can be ready:

1. Slips, Trips, and Falls: Employers should identify high-risk areas and mitigate hazards, such as using anti-slip strips on staircases, posting wet floor signs, and keeping cables organised to prevent accidents.
2. Burns: Employees working with machinery or chemicals must be trained in the safe use of equipment. Businesses should stock burn kits for immediate treatment.
3. Lacerations and Abrasions: First aid kits, suited to specific industries, should be readily available. Employees must be trained in wound management to prevent infection.
4. Fires and Explosions: Regular fire safety inspections, fire suppression systems, and employee training in fire safety protocols are essential.
5. Chemical Spills: Workplaces dealing with hazardous substances must have chemical spill protocols, provide personal protective equipment (PPE), and ensure proper training in spill management and disposal.
6. Structural Failures: Regular inspections of buildings and structures prevent collapses or safety hazards.
7. Medical Emergencies (Heart Attacks, Strokes, Seizures, etc.): First aid teams should be trained in CPR and life support techniques, and workplaces should have Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) on-site in high-risk areas.

She referred to incidents where ER24 had to respond to emergencies: 

“One of our clients encountered an incident where a customer suffered a seizure in their retail space, hitting their head on a shelf before collapsing to the ground. ER24 responded promptly, providing medical assistance and support.

 “In another instance, ER24 trauma counsellors offered post-incident support to a client’s driver following a hijacking.”

Daniel stressed that first aid training is more than just a legal requirement—it could be the difference between life and death.

 “A well-trained first aid team is the first line of defence in any emergency."

Daniel also noted that emergency preparedness is crucial to a resilient workplace. “It's not just about ticking a compliance box. When businesses prioritise structured emergency response plans—from first aid teams to post-incident trauma support—they create a safer, more resilient working environment."

“Developing a comprehensive emergency response strategy is vital in creating a stronger workplace safety culture,” Daniel concluded. 

tracy-lynn.ruiters@inl.co.za

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