According to the NFPA 70E, Arc Flash is a “dangerous condition associated with the release of energy caused by an electric arc.” It is measured in terms of arc flash incident energy E (AFIE), which is used to determine the level of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). An arc flash is the light and heat produced…
President of Saiosh, Robin Jones, asks where we should start to improve occupational health and safety (OHS): “Years ago, I read a book on firefighting in the United States (US), which focused on injuries to firefighters. The book made three broad statements: Each year, more firefighters in the US are killed in firefighting activities, than policemen.…
Complacency Kills- Don’t Cut Corners! Don’t be tempted to cut corners, one day your luck may run out and either you will be hurt or you may be responsible for injuring someone else. Obey the law, follow company policy and procedures and be vigilant; stop unsafe acts or non compliant situations.
A widely recognised animal with an average length of 4.5m, but specimens of over 6m are not uncommon. The Nile crocodile is widespread throughout Sub-Saharan Africa, occurring mostly in the central, eastern, southern and some western parts of the continent. Inhabits many different types of aquatic environments such as estuaries, lakes, rivers and marshlands. For…
Using the Venomosity Rule of Thumb, the initial pain experienced by the patient, and the factors that influence the severity of a scorpion sting, we can predict the severity of future symptoms. To better understand the expected severity of scorpion envenomation, remember: Scorpions with small pincers and a thick tail are more venomous than scorpions…
Snake bite first aid depends on the snake’s venom and bite symptoms. Use the following to make a positive identification. Make sure your emergency response plan is accessible. First Aid Techniques For assistance with spider bites, contact the Poison Information Helpline on +27(0)21 931-6129 Source: http://www.venomworks.com/free-downloads/
Despite the differences between bee and wasp venom, symptoms of their stings are similar and can be treated in a similar way. A bee will sting only once, a wasp often stings multiple times. A bee also leaves its sting behind, embedded in the skin of the patient. Bee and wasp stings may result in…
First Aid Techniques Do not hesitate to act! The first signs of anaphylaxis can be mild, becoming life-threatening very quickly. Alert security or safety officer and arrange for transportation of the patient. If the patient has an Epinephrine auto-injector, use it at the first signs of the anaphylaxis. Repeat every 5 minutes if the symptoms…
In South Africa, there has never been a verified death from a spider bite. Of the approximately 2500 species of spider in southern Africa, only about 20 species are considered medically important. There are 4 groups of medically important spiders in Africa. Use the following Identikit to make a positive identification. If the spider can be…
