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Starting a wellness program at work is a great way to promote a healthy lifestyle and improve the well-being of your employees. A wellness program can help reduce healthcare costs, increase employee productivity and satisfaction, and improve the overall health of your workforce. Here are some tips on how to start a wellness program at work:

Assess your workplace health needs

Before you start a wellness program, it’s important to assess the health needs of your workforce. You can conduct a survey or a health risk assessment to identify the health concerns of your employees. This will help you tailor your wellness program to address the specific needs of your workforce.

Set goals and objectives

Once you have identified the health needs of your workforce, you need to set goals and objectives for your wellness program. Your goals should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. For example, you could set a goal to reduce employee absenteeism by 10% in the next six months by promoting healthy lifestyle habits.

Create a wellness team

Creating a wellness team can help you implement your wellness program more effectively. Your team should consist of representatives from different departments in your organization. This will help you get buy-in from all employees and create a more comprehensive wellness program.

Develop a wellness program

Your wellness program should include a variety of activities and resources that promote healthy lifestyle habits. Some examples of wellness program activities include:

• Healthy eating initiatives, such as providing healthy snacks and drinks in the workplace and offering healthy cooking classes
• Physical activity initiatives, such as offering gym memberships or organizing group exercise classes
• Mental health initiatives, such as providing stress management resources and offering mental health support

Implement and evaluate your program

Once you have developed your wellness program, it’s time to implement it. This involves promoting your program to your employees and encouraging participation. You should also regularly evaluate your program to assess its effectiveness and make any necessary changes.

Starting a wellness program at work can have many benefits for your organization and your employees. By assessing your workplace health needs, setting goals and objectives, creating a wellness team, developing a wellness program, and implementing and evaluating your program, you can create a healthier and more productive workplace.

Here are some websites with resources to help you start a workplace wellness program:

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Workplace Health Resource Center: https://www.cdc.gov/workplacehealthpromotion/index.html
2. Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) Workplace Wellness Resource Page: https://www.shrm.org/
3. American Heart Association (AHA) Workplace Health Solutions: https://www.heart.org/
4. Wellness Council of America (WELCOA) Workplace Wellness Resource Center: https://www.welcoa.org/
5. Employee Assistance Professionals Association (EAPA) Resources: https://www.eapassn.org/

Each of these websites offers a variety of resources to help you start a workplace wellness program, including articles, webinars, tools, and templates. They also provide guidance on topics such as program design, implementation, and evaluation. Utilizing these resources can help you create a successful wellness program that promotes the health and well-being of your employees.

Don’t forget first aid and CPR training as part of your workplace wellness program. Contact us today!

When choosing a daycare, there are several criteria that you should consider to ensure that you select the best option for your child:

1. Licensing and accreditation: Look for a daycare that is licensed and accredited by a recognized organization, such as the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).
2. Staff qualifications: The caregivers at the daycare should have proper training and experience in child development and safety.
3. Safety measures: Make sure the daycare has proper safety measures in place, such as secure entrances, childproofing, and emergency plans.
4. Curriculum and activities: Look for a daycare that has a well-planned and age-appropriate curriculum that includes activities such as reading, arts and crafts, outdoor play, and music.
5. Staff-to-child ratio: Ensure that the daycare maintains a low staff-to-child ratio to ensure that your child receives the attention and care they need.
6. Cleanliness and hygiene: The daycare should be clean and hygienic to minimize the risk of illness and infection.
7. Parent communication: Look for a daycare that maintains open communication with parents, providing regular updates on your child’s progress and any issues that arise.
8. Location and hours: Consider the location of the daycare and its hours of operation to ensure that it fits with your schedule and is convenient for drop-off and pick-up.

By considering these criteria and doing your research, you can find the best daycare for your child.

Finally, be the staff is certified in first aid and CPR!

A fire evacuation plan is essential for any workplace as it helps to ensure the safety of employees and visitors in the event of a fire emergency. Here are some of the key reasons why having a fire evacuation plan is important for the workplace:

1. Protecting Lives: A fire evacuation plan provides a clear and structured approach for employees to follow in case of a fire emergency. By having a plan in place, employees can evacuate the building safely and quickly, reducing the risk of injury or loss of life.
2. Minimizing Property Damage: A fire evacuation plan can also help to minimize property damage. In the event of a fire, quick and efficient evacuation can help to prevent the fire from spreading and causing extensive damage to the building.
3. Meeting Legal Requirements: Depending on the jurisdiction, workplace safety laws and regulations may require businesses to have a fire evacuation plan in place. Failure to comply with these requirements can result in fines and legal liabilities.
4. Improving Emergency Response: By having a fire evacuation plan in place, employees and emergency responders can work together more effectively during a fire emergency. The plan can help to ensure that everyone is on the same page and knows what steps to take to evacuate the building safely.
5. Boosting Employee Confidence: Knowing that there is a plan in place for dealing with a fire emergency can give employees confidence and peace of mind. This can help to create a safer and more positive work environment.

Here’s a template you can use to create your own plan:

1. Identify Emergency Exits: a. List all emergency exits in the building b. Include a map of the building showing the locations of the emergency exits c. Clearly mark the emergency exits with signs
2. Assign Roles and Responsibilities: a. Designate a fire warden to be in charge of the evacuation b. Assign specific tasks to each employee or team member in case of a fire emergency c. Establish a communication protocol for relaying important information to everyone during the evacuation
3. Develop a Communication Plan: a. Establish a way to notify all occupants of the building of a fire emergency b. Outline a clear chain of command for communication during the emergency c. Identify a designated meeting place for everyone to gather after the evacuation
4. Train Employees: a. Provide regular training on fire safety procedures to all employees b. Conduct regular fire drills to ensure that everyone knows what to do in case of a fire c. Educate employees on the proper use of fire extinguishers and other fire safety equipment
5. Establish Procedures for Special Needs: a. Identify individuals who may need extra assistance during an emergency, such as those with disabilities or mobility issues b. Develop a plan for assisting these individuals in case of a fire emergency c. Train designated individuals to assist those with special needs during an evacuation
6. Review and Update the Plan: a. Review and update the fire evacuation plan regularly to ensure that it is current and accurate b. Incorporate feedback from employees and emergency responders into the plan c. Test the plan periodically to ensure that it is effective and efficient

Remember, having a well-thought-out fire evacuation plan in place can make all the difference in an emergency situation. Stay safe!

Be sure to contact us if you are interested in First Aid and CPR training!

It is always good to evaluate safety in your workplace. Here are a few tips to consider as you continue to improve the safety of your organization:

1. Conduct regular safety training: Ensure that all employees, including new hires, receive thorough safety training on a regular basis to keep safety top of mind.
2. Provide personal protective equipment (PPE): Provide and enforce the use of appropriate PPE such as safety glasses, gloves, hard hats, and respirators, depending on the nature of the work being performed.
3. Identify and control hazards: Conduct regular safety inspections to identify potential hazards and implement appropriate controls to prevent accidents.
4. Promote good housekeeping: A clean and well-organized workplace is essential for preventing slips, trips, and falls. Encourage employees to keep work areas clean and tidy.
5. Encourage reporting of safety issues: Create an environment where employees feel comfortable reporting safety concerns without fear of retaliation. Implement a system for reporting and investigating accidents and near-misses.
6. Regular equipment maintenance: Regularly maintain and inspect machinery and equipment to ensure it is in good working condition and safe to use.
7. Ensure proper lighting: Ensure that all areas of the workplace are well-lit, especially areas with potential hazards.
8. Foster a culture of safety: Encourage employees to take responsibility for their own safety and the safety of their coworkers. Reward safe behavior and promote open communication about safety.
9. Develop emergency procedures: Develop and regularly review emergency procedures such as evacuation plans, first aid procedures, and fire safety protocols.
10. Stay up to date with regulations: Keep up to date with all relevant health and safety regulations and make sure that your workplace is in compliance.

Don’t forget to take first aid and CPR training ever few years. With a minimum of four students, we are happy to come to your business and provide training. Click here for pricing.

Children are at risk of poisoning from many common household items and products. Here are some of the most common child poisonings:

1. Medications: Over-the-counter and prescription medications can be toxic to children, especially in large amounts. This includes pain relievers, cough and cold medicines, and vitamins.
2. Cleaning products: Many household cleaning products contain harsh chemicals that can be poisonous if ingested or inhaled. This includes bleach, ammonia, and drain cleaners.
3. Personal care products: Some personal care products, such as perfumes, nail polish remover, and hair dye, can be toxic if ingested or inhaled.
4. Plants: Some plants, such as lilies, azaleas, and ivy, can be toxic if ingested by children.
5. Pesticides: Insecticides can be toxic if ingested or inhaled by children. These products should be used with caution and stored out of reach.
6. Alcohol: Children should never be allowed to consume alcohol, as even small amounts can be toxic.
7. Lead: Lead poisoning can occur from ingesting lead-based paint or dust, which is commonly found in older homes.

It’s important to keep these items out of reach of children and to follow proper storage and disposal guidelines. If you suspect your child has been poisoned, call your local poison control center or emergency services immediately.

Here are some first aid poison prevention tips:

1. Keep all medicines, household cleaners, and other poisonous substances out of the reach of children. Store them in a locked cabinet or high up out of reach.
2. Never transfer poisonous substances to other containers, such as empty soda bottles or milk jugs. This can be confusing and potentially dangerous.
3. Always read and follow the directions and warnings on labels of household chemicals, medications, and other products. If you are not sure about the safe use of a product, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
4. Never mix cleaning products together, especially bleach and ammonia. This can create toxic fumes.
5. If you suspect that someone has been poisoned, call your local poison control center or emergency services immediately.
6. Keep the number for poison control handy and accessible. In the United States, the number is 1-800-222-1222.
7. Learn the symptoms of poisoning, such as vomiting, dizziness, confusion, and difficulty breathing.
8. If you need to dispose of medications or other poisonous substances, follow the proper disposal guidelines. Many communities have drug take-back programs or hazardous waste disposal sites.

By following these tips, you can help prevent poisonings and respond appropriately if an accident occurs. Be sure to take CPR and First Aid training for additional information.

Spring is a season of growth and renewal, but it can also bring about some health challenges. Here are some first aid tips for spring:

1. Be prepared for allergies: Spring is notorious for seasonal allergies, so make sure to stock up on over-the-counter allergy medications, like antihistamines or decongestants, if you’re prone to allergies. Keep a close eye on symptoms like runny nose, itchy eyes, and coughing, and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen.
2. Watch out for insect bites and stings: As the weather warms up, insects like bees, wasps, and ticks become more active. If you’re spending time outdoors, wear protective clothing and use insect repellent. If you do get bitten or stung, remove the stinger (if applicable) and wash the affected area with soap and water. Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling and use over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen as needed.
3. Protect yourself from the sun: Spring is a great time to spend time outdoors, but it’s important to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Wear a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen with at least SPF 30, and reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
4. Be mindful of spring cleaning hazards: Spring is a popular time for cleaning and decluttering, but it’s important to be mindful of potential hazards. Use caution when using cleaning products, wear gloves and protective clothing if necessary, and make sure rooms are well-ventilated.
5. Stay hydrated: As the weather warms up, it’s important to stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water and avoid sugary drinks or alcohol, which can dehydrate you.

Remember, if you experience a medical emergency or have any concerns about your health, seek medical attention right away.

Asthma is a lifelong condition that causes problems with breathing. Asthma attacks can be mild or severe and may cause wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing, chest discomfort, fever and fatigue. An asthma attack can happen when you are exposed to “asthma triggers.” Asthma triggers can vary from person to person and asthma sufferers should know their triggers and how to avoid them. Watch out for an attack when a trigger cannot be avoided. According to the CDC, common triggers include:

• Tobacco smoke
• Dust mites
• Outdoor air pollution
• Cockroach allergen
• Pets
• Mold
• Smoke from burning wood or grass
• Infections like flu

The steps to help someone during an asthma attack with an inhaler include:

• Shake the inhaler hard 10-15 times before use
• Have the victim exhale out all the way
• Next, the victim should place the inhaler in their mouth (between their teeth) and make a tight seal.
• As they slowly breath in, press down on the inhaler one time. Encourage them to keep breathing in slowly and deeply.
• The victim should hold their breath for 10 seconds if they are able while removing the inhaler from their mouth before exhaling
• If the instructions on the inhaler allows, these steps can be repeated.

If the victim does not improve, you may need to seek additional medical care or call 911.

There are also steps to take if the victim does not have an inhaler:

• Have the victim sit up (do not lay down)
• Focus on breathing
• Encourage the victim to breath in through their nose and out through their mouth.

The key to managing asthma is prevention. By identifying and avoiding triggers, using an asthma inhaler, and engaging in regular exercise, it is easier to prevent an asthma attack from occurring. To learn how to help someone during an asthma attack, be sure to take first aid and CPR training!

Emergencies can happen at any time. The most effective way to handle a crisis situation is to prepare in advance by creating an Emergency Action Plan. The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) even requires written Emergency Action Plans for many businesses, and specific businesses have additional regulations due to their part in the country’s infrastructure or their handling of hazardous materials. Beyond that, there are many reasons for having a solid preparedness program.

Putting together a comprehensive emergency action plan that deals with those issues specific to your worksite is not difficult. It involves taking what was learned from your workplace evaluation and describing how employees will respond to different types of emergencies, taking into account your specific worksite layout, structural features, and emergency systems.

To help get you started, we are providing a template from the CDC. Emergency Action Plans (EAP) are living documents and should be reviewed and updated at least once a year.

As part of your EAP, don’t forget to get certified in first aid and CPR!

Click Here for an Emergency Action Plan Template

For Additional Resources, please visit the CDC webpage devoted to emergency preparedness:

https://emergency.cdc.gov/planning/index.asp

With Nebraska Tornado Awareness week taking place at the end of March and the beginning of tornado season at hand (in 2014 the first tornado spotted was on April 27th), it seemed timely to share some Nebraska Tornado Facts.

 

1) The most deadly tornado to occur in Nebraska happened on Easter Sunday in 1913:

On Easter Sunday 1913 a series of tornadoes followed by flooding struck the midwest US. The most notable tornado of the series is an F4 (possibly F5) tornado that crossed Omaha, skirting the downtown area. The tornado caused 103 deaths and 305 injuries.

62 years later (in 1975) another F4 tornado would strike Omaha, causing only 3 deaths (but is estimated as the 3rd most costly tornado in American history).

 

2) 2004 was the year with most identified tornadoes in Nebraska:
In 2004 there were 111 tornadoes identified in Nebraska, 66 of them in May. Among them is the F4 tornado that destroyed 95% of Hallam, Nebraska, which was the largest tornado on record until 2013.

 

3) The Nebraska county experiencing the most tornadoes per sq.mi. is Hall, County:

It’s well known that Grand Island sees a large number of tornadoes. Grand Island is the county seat of Hall county, the Nebraska county to have had the highest tornado density since 1950. Hall county has experienced more than 5 times more tornadoes than either Douglas or Sarpy counties in the last 65 years.

 

4) Over 50% of Nebraska tornadoes happen between 4PM and 8PM:
Most tornadoes happen between 4 and 8 in the afternoon/evening in Nebraska. About 1 in 6 tornadoes happen in the 5 o’clock hour, during one of the heaviest traffic times of the day.

 

5) Nebraska is 5th Nationwide in tornado occurrence:
Nebraska ranks 5th in number of tornadoes but only ranks 23rd in fatalities and 24th in injuries when looking at data from 1950-1994. The low injury rate is certainly influenced by Nebraska’s low population density, but can also be owed to improved severe weather preparedness, such as building construction and early warning systems.

 

I hope you enjoyed the quick tornado facts, and have a safe and fun tornado season.