- Up to 59% of pre-hospital injury deaths could be prevented with effective first-aid intervention, highlighting the importance of first-aid training.
- Basic first aid training for seafarers is mandatory under the STCW Code, ensuring they can manage emergencies until professional help arrives.
- The International Medical Guide for Ships provides essential guidance on emergency response, focusing on basic life support techniques such as CPR.
According to research by the University of Manchester, up to 59% of pre-hospital deaths from injury could potentially be prevented with simple first-aid intervention. Fortunately, reducing this percentage is relatively straightforward—increasing first aid training among individuals reports Safety4sea.
First aid training
First aid, as defined by the World Health Organization (WHO), involves initial treatment to prevent death or further injury until professional medical assistance is available. For seafarers, this training is not just beneficial but mandatory. Under the STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping) Code, all crew members are required to have basic first aid training. This training prepares them to handle accidents or medical emergencies on board until more qualified medical help can take over.
The STCW Basic First Aid training ensures seafarers can manage emergencies effectively. This includes positioning casualties, applying resuscitation techniques, controlling bleeding, managing shock, handling burns and scalds, rescuing and transporting casualties, and improvising bandages.
Additionally, the WHO’s 3rd Edition of The International Medical Guide for Ships is an invaluable resource for maritime emergency preparedness. It details essential steps for handling various emergencies, including choking, bleeding, shock, pain, injuries, wounds, burns, and poisoning. The guide emphasizes the ABC sequence of Basic Life Support, which focuses on restoring vital functions like breathing and blood circulation through cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
In conclusion, first aid training is a crucial component of maritime safety, equipping seafarers with the skills needed to respond effectively in emergencies and potentially save lives.
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Source: Safety4sea
