Training by Pat Darnell   Emergencies happen. They strike us at work, at home, and in between. They usually occur when we least expect them. It is critically important for victims of accidents and injuries to receive proper care before the ambulance arrives. Prompt administration of CPR has significantly improved the survival rates of cardiac arrest victims. Simple techniques that can be learned by anyone can make the difference between life and death. At the same time, the skills of basic first aid can be used almost every day. Bicycle accidents, fires, and sudden illness occur frequently, and knowing the steps to take during an accident can keep dangerous situations under control. "Prompt administration of CPR has significantly improved the survival rates of cardiac arrest victims. Simple techniques that can be learned by anyone can make the difference between life and death." Underground Construction Co., Inc. encourages all employees to take CPR and First Aid training. In fact, we trained 120 employees in the past year at our Benicia facility at no cost to the employees. We train a similar number each year to keep up with the renewal requirements, and arrange courses for our out-of-state employees as well. We have had classes offered in Spanish, as well as translation services available at our standard classes. It is an OSHA requirement that at least one employee on each work site is CPR and First Aid trained, and we are in total compliance, or better! Our Pre- construction Meeting checklists include an item to identify the trained individuals on each job, and our Safety Inspection Checklists have a similar item. Usually the majority of the crewmembers on each job are trained. We all have families, many with young children and many with older adults. The likelihood of having to use the skills learned in CPR and First Aid training is greater at home than at work. So, watch the training calendar, and sign up for the classes when they are offered. Back to Top of Page