# First aid and reporting injuries

URL: https://hardhatbinder.com/en/toolbox-talks/first-aid-and-emergencies
Last updated: 2026-10-23

Small cuts, strains, and splinters happen on every job, and how we handle them in the first minutes matters. A minor injury that gets ignored can turn into an infection or a bigger problem. This week, let's make sure everyone knows where help is and how to report an injury right away.

## Key points

1. Know where the first aid kit is on this site before you start work. If it's empty or missing items, tell me today so we can restock it.
2. Know who on the crew is trained in first aid and CPR. If you don't know, ask now, not during an emergency.
3. Know the site address and the nearest clinic or hospital. In a serious emergency, call 911 first, then call the foreman.
4. Report every injury to your foreman right away, even if it seems small. A late report makes it harder to get you proper care.
5. If something gets in your eyes or chemicals splash on your skin, flush with clean water right away. Know where the eyewash or water supply is.
6. Wear gloves when you help someone who is bleeding. Protect yourself first so you don't become the second patient.
7. Report near misses too. If something almost hurt someone, telling us helps fix it before it does.

## Talk it over

- Where is the first aid kit on this site, and who checked it last?
- If someone got badly hurt right now, what would you do first, and what address would you give 911?
- Has anyone ever kept quiet about an injury? What would make it easier to speak up?

> **Remember:** Every injury gets reported, every time, no matter how small.

## Official sources

- [29 CFR 1926.50](https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-29/section-1926.50) — Medical services and first aid

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Source: HardHat Binder, operated by Leadspire LLC. Templates to be reviewed by a competent person before use; not legal advice; not affiliated with OSHA.