WorldWide Drilling Resource

WorldWide Drilling Resource ® 16 SEPTEMBER 2014 Safety Spotlight: Cut Treatment by Scott Cosby This month’s article will focus on safety - specifically, cut treatment. All of us in the drilling industry have or will experience a cut or laceration in the field at one time or another. It’s a fact, accidents or mishaps will happen out there. Based on my experiences, these usually occur on the hands and/or arms. A basic description of this type of wound and treatments follows. A laceration is a cut in the skin from a sharp object. Treatment for a lacera- tion depends on the depth of the wound. Call 911 if blood is spurting out from the wound or the bleeding can't be stopped after ten minutes of firm and steady pressure. Most minor cuts can usually be treated by an individual. Quick treat- ment can help prevent infection and pro- mote healing. Nonprescription products are avail- able - such as skin adhesives (or liquid skin) - which can be applied to the skin to help stop mild bleeding of minor cuts, lacerations, or abrasions, and may be available in a first aid kit. Before using, be sure to read the label carefully and follow the instructions when applying the product. Immediately stop drilling operations and follow these three basic cut treat- ment steps while in the field. TheAmerican Red Cross recommends everyone use precautions, such as gloves, when ad- ministering first aid treatment: 1. Stop the Bleeding. Apply direct pressure on the area. 2. Clean and Protect. Clean the area with warm water and gentle soap. Apply an antibiotic ointment to reduce the chance of infection. Put a sterile bandage on the area. 3. Follow Up. For a minor cut or laceration, remove bandage after a couple of days to promote heal- ing. See a doctor if the cut doesn't heal or shows signs of infection, in- cluding redness, swelling, or exces- sive pain. Consult a local health professional or the American Red Cross for more information, and provide in-house infor- mation on this topic to drill crews. There are a variety of online sources concern- ing this topic, including the occupational Safety and Health Administration. Scott Scott Cosby may be contacted via e-mail at admin@ worldwidedrillingresource.com