Steps to take if exposed to toxic material

by | Feb 22, 2019 | Firm News |

Working in an environment that houses toxic chemicals can be dangerous. You need to learn about every toxic material present in your immediate work area and the dangers of each of those materials. You should also learn how to store the materials safely and what to do should you ever be exposed to any of them in Saint Croix, Wisconsin.

The first thing you need to do when exposed to toxic chemicals, or if you come across a co-worker who is exhibiting the signs of toxic exposure, is to call 911. Make sure you tell the dispatcher your location and the type of emergency that occurred. For example, tell the dispatcher the name of the chemical that was involved in the accident so emergency responders know what they are dealing with upon arrival.

If you are not the victim of the chemical exposure and are tending to a co-worker who is, make sure you wear protective equipment. This will help prevent you from becoming contaminated. Wear gloves, goggles, a lab coat, a full-body suit and a facemask.

If you are the victim and the exposure caused injury to your eyes, get yourself to a wash station immediately. Rinse your eyes at the station with water to remove as much of the chemical as possible.

Once you have been medically treated or the victim has been transported to the hospital, it’s time to report the exposure incident to a supervisor. Make sure this is done in writing and with plenty of details.

Exposure to toxic chemicals can cause serious injuries. That’s why it’s important to seek medical treatment immediately. You do not want to prolong treatment. This could cause the injury to worsen and make it more difficult to treat.

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