The safety issue we had impacted the following users:

All workers

The safety issue we had was:

Reviewing emergency response procedures in a non-emergency situation is critical to ensure the plan works and everyone knows what their role and expectations are. Under times of stress, when every minute counts, forest workers should be confident in their Emergency Response Plans (ERPs).

Testing out our ERP in a variety of settings, helping first aid attendants keep their skills sharp and letting workers know of their role in assisting in an emergency can serve to decrease response time and improve the effectiveness of response plans.

Our innovative approach was:

Conducting first aid drills to familiarize workers and first aid attendants with the plan and test the system. A debrief discussion helped to create better understanding and improve the plan.

The difference it made to our safety operations was:

The drills allowed workers to give input into the plans and increased the familiarity of the steps to take in an emergency.

According to a WorkSafe BC report by Dr. Greg Anderson, skill and knowledge retention drops off 30 days after completion of a Level 1 course. Including drills in monthly safety meetings helps to keep first aid attendant’s skills and knowledge current.

Supporting resources:

The BCFSC has developed a series of drills that you may wish to use for your company, you can download the drills at http://bcforestsafe.org/innovations.html

• Adapt the scenarios to make them as realistic as possible. Drills work best when held on the worksite, using the equipment and people who will be involved.
• With a larger group it is helpful to have some workers act as observers to watch and record the action. Always conduct a debrief to allow participants and observers to give feedback on successes and areas of weakness.
• Assign team members to make the necessary changes with the ERP. Follow up with the group once those changes have been implemented.
• During the drill, test out the emergency phone numbers to ensure they are still correct for the work area. Let the operator know you are testing the system.
• You may wish to involve your aerial or ground transport providers in the drill. They can provide helpful insight on their capabilities in an emergency.
• Radio communication may be difficult in some areas of the block, a drill can help identify where alternate communication is necessary.