EMG/General/TBT-EMG-004

Medical Emergency Response

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Medical Emergency Response

Toolbox Talk Record

Ref: TBT-EMG-004  |  Issue: 1  |  Date: March 2026
PresenterProject
LocationDate

What?

  • A medical emergency on a construction site requires immediate response to preserve life before professional help arrives.
  • Common construction emergencies include cardiac arrest, severe bleeding, crush injuries, falls from height, and electric shock.
  • The response priority is DRABC: check for Danger, check Response, open Airway, check Breathing, start CPR if needed.
  • Call 999 immediately for any serious injury — do not delay calling while attempting treatment beyond your training.
  • Send a person to meet the ambulance at the site entrance and guide paramedics directly to the casualty location.
  • An AED should be used as soon as available for cardiac arrest — early defibrillation dramatically improves survival rates.
  • Severe bleeding must be controlled with direct pressure using a clean pad or dressing — do not apply a tourniquet unless trained.
  • For suspected spinal injuries from falls, keep the casualty still and do not move them unless there is immediate danger.
  • Electric shock casualties must not be touched until the electrical supply is confirmed isolated — you could become a second casualty.
  • Post-incident welfare support must be provided for colleagues who witnessed the emergency — traumatic events affect mental health.

Why?

Minutes matterFor cardiac arrest, brain damage begins within 4 minutes — immediate CPR and early defibrillation save lives.
Call firstCalling 999 immediately ensures professional help is on the way — delaying the call while attempting treatment costs precious time.
Electrical dangerTouching an electric shock casualty before isolation can electrocute the rescuer — confirm the supply is off before approaching.
Do Don't
  • Call 999 immediately for any serious or life-threatening injury on site.
  • Follow the DRABC sequence when assessing any casualty at the scene.
  • Use an AED as soon as it is available for any casualty in cardiac arrest.
  • Control severe bleeding with firm, direct pressure using a clean dressing.
  • Send someone to meet the ambulance at the site entrance and guide them in.
  • Keep suspected spinal injury casualties still — do not move them unnecessarily.
  • Confirm electrical isolation before approaching any electric shock casualty.
  • Know the location of the nearest first aid kit and AED to your work area.
  • Provide reassurance to the casualty and keep them warm until help arrives.
  • Arrange welfare support for colleagues who witnessed the emergency event.
  • DON'T delay calling 999 — make the call first, then start providing first aid.
  • DON'T skip the danger check — the scene must be safe before approaching.
  • DON'T withhold an AED from a cardiac arrest casualty — use it immediately.
  • DON'T ignore severe bleeding — apply direct pressure with a dressing straight away.
  • DON'T assume the ambulance will find the casualty — send a guide to the gate.
  • DON'T move a casualty with a suspected spinal injury unless their life is in danger.
  • DON'T touch an electric shock casualty until the power supply is confirmed isolated.
  • DON'T wait for an emergency to learn where the first aid kit and AED are located.
  • DON'T leave the casualty alone — maintain reassurance and monitor their condition.
  • DON'T forget the mental health of witnesses — traumatic events need welfare support.

See also: First Aid Response and Triage | Emergency Plan Awareness
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