June is National Safety Month

The Month of June is designated as "National Safety Month" and each week has a different theme. This week's theme is "Workplace Safety." As this is such a broad topic that can differ from workplace to workplace, I have chosen to focus on personal disaster preparedness. In the event of an earthquake or other large scale disaster, there is always the possibility that you could be stuck at your workplace for a few days (Yikes, I know). We recommend keeping a personal disaster supplies kit for work with the following items:

• Flashlight with extra batteries
  Use the flashlight to find your way if the power is out. Do not use candles or any other open flame for emergency lighting.
  
  
• Battery-powered radio
  News about the emergency may change rapidly as events unfold. You also will be concerned about family and friends in the area. Radio reports will give information about the areas most affected.
  
  
• Food
  Enough non-perishable food to sustain you for at least one day (three meals), is suggested. Select foods that require no refrigeration, preparation or cooking, and little or no water. The following items are suggested:
  Ready-to-eat canned meals, meats, fruits, and vegetables.
  Canned juices.
  High-energy foods (granola bars, energy bars, etc.).
  


• Water
  Keep at least one gallon of water available, or more if you are on medications that require water or that increase thirst. Store water in plastic containers such as soft drink bottles. Avoid using containers that will decompose or break, such as milk cartons or glass bottles.
  


• Medications
  Include usual non-prescription medications that you take, including pain relievers, stomach remedies, etc. If you use prescription medications, keep at least three-day’s supply of these medications at your workplace. Consult with your physician or pharmacist how these medications should be stored, and your employer about storage concerns.
  
  
• First Aid Supplies
  If your employer does not provide first aid supplies, have the following essentials:
  (20) adhesive bandages, various sizes. (1) 5” x 9” sterile dressing. (1) conforming roller gauze bandage. (2) triangular bandages. (2) 3 x 3 sterile gauze pads. (2) 4 x 4 sterile gauze pads.(1) roll 3” cohesive bandage. (2) germicidal hand wipes or waterless alcohol-based hand sanitizer. (6) antiseptic wipes. (2) pair large medical grade non-latex gloves Adhesive tape, 2” width. Anti-bacterial ointment. Cold pack. Scissors (small, personal). Tweezers. CPR breathing barrier, such as a face shield
  
  
• Personal hygiene items, including a toothbrush, toothpaste, comb, brush, soap, contact lens supplies, and feminine supplies.
  


• Plastic garbage bags, ties (for personal sanitation uses) .
  Include at least one complete change of clothing and footwear, including a long sleeved shirt and long pants, as well as closed-toed shoes or boots.
  


• If you wear glasses, keep an extra pair with your workplace disaster supplies.



• Whistle. If you find yourself trapped by debris, a whistle is the best way to be heard by rescuers. Shouting is a last resort as it not only can cause exhaustion, but could cause the victim to inhale a great deal of harmful dust and toxins.

Your kit should be adjusted based on your own personal needs. This sounds like a huge amount of stuff to keep under your desk, but you'd be suprised. My kit fits in a small duffle bag and sits under my desk. Your co-workers might think you're a paranoid weirdo, but think of how jealous they will be when you are eating a nice warm meal in clean clothes after an earthquake traps you all in the office. You will be elected supreme ruler of the survivors and after the dust settles, might just be promoted to assistant manager!