The American Association of Occupational Health Nurses, Inc. (AAOHN), a nursing specialty association dedicated to the promotion of health, safety and productivity of workers and worker populations, nationally and internationally, fully supports the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry’s efforts to promote safe and healthful work and community environments.  Given that, we support VOSH's effort to seek the amendment of medical services and first aid regulations for general industry, §16 VAC 25-90-1910.151(a)-(c), and the construction industry, §16 VAC 25-175-1926.50 (a)-(g), to require employers to train employee(s) to render first aid and cardio pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) when employees are exposed to occupational hazards which could result in serious physical harm or death.

First aid is the immediate care given to an injured or suddenly ill worker. The outcome usually depends on the immediate rendering of care.  This is especially important when employees are exposed to high risk hazards in their work environment.

 As a national association committed to innovative and business compatible solutions for workplaces and worker health and safety, the American Association of Occupational Health Nurses, Inc. appreciates the opportunity to state our views and recommendations to the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry’s on the Medical Standards and First Aid Standards for General Industry and for the Construction Industry.