Workplace Safety Standards for Colorado EMTs
Emergency medical technicians (EMTs) face life-threatening situations with a deep dedication to saving and protecting lives. From navigating dangerous roads during winter storms to lifting heavy patients in awkward spaces, Colorado EMTs encounter many physical hazards on a daily basis. Add in the risks of infectious diseases, violent patients, and the intense emotional toll of the job, and it becomes clear why EMT injury rates are higher than normal among professions.
To prevent injuries and protect workers, it is important for EMTs and their employers to maintain workplace safety standards. Below are a few key considerations to keep in mind.
Keep Tools and Vehicles in Good Condition
Regular maintenance of ambulances, stretchers, and medical equipment prevents catastrophic failures during critical moments. Check all equipment at the start of each shift, immediately report any mechanical issues, and never use damaged tools. Document all maintenance activities and equipment checks based on your department’s protocols.
Follow Colorado Safe Driving Practices
Operating an ambulance requires exceptional skill and focus, especially during high-stress emergency responses. It is important for EMTs to stay safe while on the road. Make sure to scan for distracted drivers who may not notice approaching emergency vehicles and practice defensive driving techniques. Always wear seat belts when driving—even in the patient compartment.
Make Sure to Lift with Your Legs
EMTs can suffer career-ending back injuries when they do not use proper lifting techniques. When lifting patients, try to use mechanical assistance whenever possible, and never attempt heavy lifts alone. Always lift with your legs instead of your back.
When moving patients up or down stairs, always work with a partner and clearly communicate each step. Take extra precautions on icy surfaces or uneven terrain.
Practice De-Escalation Techniques
Violent patients and perpetrators are a major risk for EMTs on the job. It is important to recognize any signs of agitation, such as clenched fists, pacing, raised voices, hostile staring, or sudden mood changes. When encountering a violent patient, stay calm and keep your distance.
Keep hands visible, avoid sudden movements, and listen actively to patient concerns. Never hesitate to call for police backup if a situation feels unsafe. Remember that your safety comes first—you cannot help others if you become injured yourself.
Always Use Personal Protective Equipment
When dealing with cases that involve infectious diseases or hazardous materials, personal protective equipment (PPE) is crucial. Gloves, masks, and eye protection can provide a crucial barrier between yourself and workplace hazards. If any PPE is damaged, notify your supervisors and replace it immediately.
Denver Workers’ Compensation Attorney Options for Colorado EMTs
Workers’ comp claims can be challenging to navigate alone, which is why legal representation is critical. A Denver workers comp lawyer can help complete paperwork, gather evidence, and argue for a fair settlement that adequately addresses the EMT’s injuries. If you were hurt while working as an EMT, contact an attorney right away to discuss your case and plan your path to recovery.
Even with the most rigorous safety standards, workplace accidents can still happen—especially in high-risk EMT positions. In these situations, injured EMTs have the right to file a workers’ compensation claim and recover benefits to pay for medical care, long-term disability, and more.