Emergency Response Techniques: CPR, Choking, and Bleeding

Emergencies can occur in any workplace, and quick, effective responses often mean the difference between a minor incident and a severe outcome. For garage door technicians, who frequently work with heavy tools, high-tension components, and sharp materials, understanding basic emergency response techniques is a critical safety skill. This article provides an overview of essential procedures for addressing three common emergencies: administering CPR, managing choking incidents, and controlling bleeding.

Understanding the Importance of Emergency Preparedness

Emergencies like cardiac arrests, choking, and bleeding injuries require immediate attention. Being prepared with the knowledge and tools to act quickly not only helps save lives but also reduces the severity of injuries. Canadian Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) regulations emphasize the importance of training workers in first aid and equipping job sites with accessible first aid kits.

1. Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)

Cardiac arrest occurs when the heart stops pumping blood effectively, cutting off oxygen to vital organs. CPR is a life-saving technique that helps restore circulation and oxygen flow until professional medical help arrives.

Steps to Perform CPR

Assess the Scene:
- Ensure the area is safe for both the rescuer and the victim.
- Check the victim for responsiveness by tapping their shoulder and shouting.
Call for Help:
- Dial 911 or ask someone nearby to do so.
- Retrieve an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) if available.
Start Chest Compressions:
- Place the heel of one hand in the center of the victim’s chest, with the other hand on top.
- Interlock your fingers and keep your arms straight.
- Push hard and fast, compressing the chest at least 2 inches deep at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute.
Provide Rescue Breaths:
- After 30 compressions, tilt the victim’s head back and lift their chin to open the airway.
- Pinch their nose, seal your mouth over theirs, and give two breaths, ensuring their chest rises.
- Alternate between 30 compressions and 2 breaths until help arrives or the victim shows signs of recovery.

Using an AED

Turn on the AED and follow the voice prompts.
Attach the pads to the victim’s bare chest as instructed.
Allow the AED to analyze the heart rhythm and deliver a shock if advised.
Resume CPR immediately after the shock until emergency services arrive.

2. Responding to Choking

Choking occurs when an object blocks the airway, preventing oxygen from reaching the lungs. Quick intervention is essential to avoid suffocation.

Signs of Choking

Inability to speak, cough, or breathe.
Clutching the throat (universal choking sign).
Wheezing or a complete lack of sound.

Steps to Help a Choking Victim

Encourage Coughing:
- If the person can cough or make sounds, encourage them to continue coughing to dislodge the object.
Deliver Back Blows (if coughing is ineffective):
- Stand to the side and slightly behind the person.
- Support their chest with one hand and deliver up to five firm back blows between the shoulder blades using the heel of your hand.
Perform Abdominal Thrusts (Heimlich Maneuver):
- Stand behind the person and wrap your arms around their waist.
- Make a fist and place it just above their navel.
- Grasp the fist with your other hand and deliver quick, upward thrusts.
- Repeat until the object is expelled or the person becomes unresponsive.
If the Person Becomes Unresponsive:
- Lower them to the ground and begin CPR, checking the airway for obstructions before delivering rescue breaths.

3. Controlling Bleeding

Bleeding is one of the most common workplace injuries, and rapid control is essential to prevent excessive blood loss and shock.

Types of Bleeding

Capillary Bleeding: Minor scrapes or cuts that bleed slowly.
Venous Bleeding: Dark red blood flows steadily, often from deeper wounds.
Arterial Bleeding: Bright red blood spurts in rhythm with the heartbeat, requiring immediate attention.

Steps to Control Bleeding

Apply Pressure:
- Place a clean cloth or sterile gauze over the wound.
- Apply firm, consistent pressure with your hand to slow or stop the bleeding.
Elevate the Wounded Area:
- Raise the injured limb above heart level, if possible, to reduce blood flow.
Apply a Dressing:
- Once the bleeding slows, secure the gauze with a bandage or adhesive tape.
- Avoid removing the dressing if it becomes soaked; instead, add more layers on top.
Use a Tourniquet (if necessary):
- In cases of severe bleeding that cannot be controlled by pressure, apply a tourniquet above the wound.
- Tighten it until the bleeding stops and note the time of application for medical responders.
Monitor for Shock:
- Symptoms of shock include pale skin, rapid pulse, shallow breathing, and confusion.
- Keep the victim warm and comfortable until help arrives.

Building Confidence Through Training

Emergency response techniques require practice to ensure confidence and competence. Employers should provide regular first aid training sessions, including hands-on practice for CPR, choking, and bleeding control scenarios. Simulated exercises can help technicians stay prepared for real-world emergencies.

Final Notes:

Emergencies like cardiac arrest, choking, and bleeding can occur without warning. Garage door technicians must be equipped with the knowledge and skills to respond effectively. By learning CPR, managing choking incidents, and controlling bleeding, technicians can protect themselves and others in critical situations. At Garage Door Fix, safety is a core value, and empowering our team with life-saving skills ensures a safer workplace and stronger community impact.