FACTS

Primary hazards and types of injuries associated with inadequate first aid in landscaping

1. Delayed Treatment: Inadequate first aid can worsen minor injuries, leading to serious complications.
2. Infections: Lack of proper wound care increases the risk of severe infections like cellulitis and tetanus.
3. Shock: Uncontrolled bleeding or trauma can cause life-threatening shock without immediate care.
4. Respiratory Issues: Exposure to chemicals without proper first aid can result in severe respiratory problems.
5. Cardiac Arrest: Failure to administer CPR promptly can lead to fatal outcomes.
6. Pain and Suffering: Delayed first aid can cause unnecessary pain and long-term health issues.

STATS

• In the landscaping industry in the USA and Canada, injuries due to inadequate first aid and general safety practices are significant. Between 2011 and 2021, there were 1,072 work-related fatalities in the landscaping and groundskeeping industry in the USA, with 142 occurring in 2021 alone. Many of these injuries and fatalities result from contact with equipment, falls, and exposure to harmful substances, with about 20% of serious injuries and fatalities involving harmful substances or extreme weather conditions.
• In the USA, the landscaping industry is recognized as one of the most dangerous occupations, with higher-than-average rates of both fatal and nonfatal injuries compared to other industries. In 2019, nearly 12,400 landscaping workers experienced injuries that resulted in time away from work.
• The most frequent causes of injuries in landscaping include overexertion, being struck by objects, and falls. Many of these incidents require immediate first aid treatment before professional medical attention is sought.
• In Canada, slips, trips, and falls account for nearly 20% of all lost-time injury claims in Ontario, indicating a substantial risk in various workplaces, including landscaping. Proper first aid training is essential to respond effectively to these incidents.