Once the dressing is on the wound cut four strips of athletic tape and use them to attach the dressing to the skin. The bandage shouldn't be too loose (able to move around) or too tight (impairing circulation).

If there is a risk that the wound will be exposed to water, cover the bandage with waterproof material such as waterproof tape or plastic.

Does my employee need to go ER?

Use these questions to evaluate if you need to send an injured employee to the emergency room.

• Can you stop the bleeding?
• Are the wound edges separated?
• Can you adequately clean the wound? Is it possible that serious underlying damage was done (such as a cut nerve or tendon)?
• Has the employee had a tetanus shot in the past 10 years?

For a free documentable safety meeting on first aid for lacerations email mrich@safetyservicescompany.com.