Emergencies can strike at any time in the workplace, and when they do, a fast and coordinated CPR response is critical.
Cardiac arrest is one of the most time-sensitive medical emergencies, as every minute without CPR and defibrillation decreases a person’s survival chances by approximately 10%. When a colleague collapses, the ability of bystanders to work together effectively can mean the difference between life and death.
While CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) is a skill that individuals can learn and apply alone, teamwork significantly improves outcomes by ensuring that life-saving actions are carried out efficiently and without delay.
In the case of workplace emergencies, multiple rescuers reduce fatigue and maintain high-quality chest compressions. It also allows others to retrieve and apply an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) quickly and communicate effectively with emergency services.
At Stay Calm Training, we provide CPR and first aid training for workplaces in Cairns that equip individuals with essential skills. Our training covers the importance of teamwork in emergencies, ensuring that every workplace is prepared for incidents like sudden cardiac arrest (SCA).
This blog explores how collaboration, preparedness, and training help save lives and improve CPR efforts in the workplace.
The DRSABCD Action Plan: The Foundation of Every First Aid Response
Every workplace first aid incident must be managed systematically using the DRSABCD action plan, which is a standard approach outlined in a Basic Life Support flowchart. This ensures all first aiders follow a structured CPR process when responding to an emergency, reducing errors and delays.
The DRSABCD Steps:
- D – Danger: Check for dangers to yourself, bystanders, and the patient before approaching.
- R – Response: Assess if the person is conscious by speaking to them and gently shaking their shoulders.
- S – Send for Help: Call 000 immediately for an ambulance.
- A – Airway: Open the airway by tilting the head back and lifting the chin.
- B – Breathing: Look, listen, and feel for normal breathing for up to 10 seconds.
- C – CPR: If the person is unresponsive and not breathing normally, start CPR (30 chest compressions followed by 2 rescue breaths).
- D – Defibrillation: Attach an AED as soon as possible and follow its prompts.
Every workplace first aider should be trained in following this action plan instinctively, ensuring that responses are effective and well-coordinated.
Why Teamwork is Essential in Workplace CPR and First Aid
While a single trained responder can initiate CPR, having a team of first aiders working together drastically improves the patient’s chances of survival. Here’s why:
- Reducing Rescuer Fatigue to Maintain High-Quality Compressions
Performing high-quality chest compressions at a rate of 100–120 compressions per minute is physically exhausting. Studies show that even trained rescuers experience a drop in compression quality after 1–2 minutes due to fatigue.
A well-prepared team can take turns performing compressions every two minutes to maintain efficiency and prevent exhaustion. This ensures that:- The depth of compressions remains between 5–6 cm.
- The rate of compressions is consistent.
- The responder does not become too tired to continue effectively.
- Faster Application of an AED (Automated External Defibrillator)
Defibrillation within the first 3–5 minutes of cardiac arrest can increase survival rates by up to 70%. In a team setting:- One person can continue CPR.
- Another can retrieve and set up the AED.
- A third person can help apply the pads and ensure the chest is dry.
By working together, teams minimise interruptions to CPR, ensuring that defibrillation occurs as soon as possible.
- Coordinated Communication with Emergency Services
One person should immediately call 000, provide details of the situation, and follow instructions from the emergency operator. A well-trained team ensures that:- Someone is dedicated to calling for help while others start first aid.
- Emergency services receive clear and precise location details (using apps like Emergency+ and what3words).
- The team can quickly relay updates to paramedics upon arrival.
- Managing Other First Aid Needs Simultaneously
CPR may not be the only required intervention. A team approach allows for multiple first aid measures to be managed at once, such as:- Controlling bleeding if the casualty has sustained an injury.
- Ensuring airway management if the casualty has vomited or has an obstructed airway.
- Providing emotional support to bystanders or colleagues.
Using the Emergency+ App and what3words for Faster Emergency Response
When calling 000, providing an exact location is crucial, especially in workplaces with large or complex layouts (e.g., construction sites, industrial areas, or remote locations). The Emergency+ and what3words apps are two critical applications that employees should be familiar with during workplace emergencies.
Emergency+ App
The Emergency+ app was developed by Australian emergency services to:
- Quickly dial 000 and connect to the right service.
- Display the caller’s exact GPS coordinates, which can be read aloud to the operator.
- Provide extra emergency contact numbers for local authorities.
what3words for Precise Location Sharing
what3words divides the world into 3m x 3m squares, each assigned a unique three-word address (e.g., “rescue.brave.respond”). Many Australian emergency services now use what3words, making it a valuable tool for workplaces in remote or hard-to-navigate locations.
By adopting these technologies into first aid training and CPR efforts, workplaces can save critical minutes during emergencies.
CPR and Low Voltage Rescue (LVR/CPR) in the Workplace
Low Voltage Rescue (LVR CPR) is another important first aid training for workplaces that involve electrical hazards, such as construction sites, mining operations, and industrial facilities. This training is important for a few reasons:
- Electrical workers are at risk of electric shocks and cardiac arrest from exposure to live wires.
- Immediate CPR and defibrillation are required when someone suffers an electric shock and goes into cardiac arrest.
- The presence of trained personnel ensures that safe rescue procedures are followed.
At Stay Calm Training, we offer LVR/CPR courses in Cairns, equipping workers with the skills to: - Assess electrical hazards before performing a rescue.
- Use appropriate protective gear (e.g., insulated gloves).
- Provide effective CPR after removing the casualty from danger.
For workplaces where electrical safety is a concern, LVR CPR training should be a mandatory part of workplace safety procedures.
How Stay Calm Training Can Prepare Your Workplace for Emergencies
At Stay Calm Training, we provide comprehensive CPR and First Aid training in the workplace that prepares individuals and teams to respond confidently to emergencies. With a convenient location in Cairns, our courses include:
CPR and First Aid courses for individuals and businesses.
LVR CPR training for electricians and electrical workers.
Fire safety and emergency response training for workplace compliance.
Scenario-based training to simulate real-life workplace emergencies.
By investing in first aid training, your workplace can ensure a safer environment for all employees.
Conclusion
When a cardiac arrest or medical emergency occurs in the workplace, teamwork is essential for ensuring a fast, effective response. By training multiple employees in CPR, AED use, and emergency coordination, workplaces can significantly improve survival rates.
Don’t wait until an emergency happens—train your team today with Stay Calm Training.
Book CPR and First Aid Workplace Training in Cairns Now!
Visit our course calendar to book your course, or call us for more details.
