Apple Rubber's Glenn Orgek (left) and Tony Brown practice CPR during a September training class.
Would you know what to do if someone stopped breathing?
No one ever wants to be in that situation — to see a friend or co-worker in such dire circumstances. Quick and decisive action by a trained bystander, however, can greatly increase the likelihood that the stricken individual survives.
On Sept. 17 and Sept. 24, Apple Rubber hosted cardiopulmonary resuscitation first aid classes that were attended by 24 company employees. Representatives from Apple Rubber’s main office, warehouse, and manufacturing facility were present at these sessions. Mark Schaefer of M.P. Service Group served as the instructor.
The CPR students are volunteers, according to Safety Director Bernie Fix, and the classes — held once a year — play a key role in preventing and responding to health-related workplace incidents.
“It’s very important,” Mr. Fix said. “We are always looking for problems before they start, so the voluntary first aid team is needed. ‘First aid’ is just that — getting aid to employee as fast as we can, and getting outside help coming as fast as we can, if needed, as well.”
Safety is always top-of-mind at Apple Rubber. Team members are required to participate in regular fire drills, and sports drinks are distributed during the summer to ensure that workers stay hydrated in hot conditions.
“My goal,” Mr. Fix noted, “is that everyone goes home the way they come in to work.”
To learn more about CPR or to find a local class, visit the Red Cross online.