PISTA BLOG#15 (Oct 2022): MEDICAL RESPONSE FOR HYPOTHERMIA IN THE OFFSHORE O&G INDUSTRY

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 MEDICAL RESPONSE ONBOARD AN OFFSHORE O&G INSTALLATION

Offshore, weather can create major problems and challenges for workers. Most offshore O& G Platforms, Rigs and Installations are typically built and designed to withstand strong turbulent waves, winds and hurricanes. And most extreme weather conditions cause early evacuation and halting of procedures well in advance.

However, incidents and accidents do occur….

In extreme weather scenarios, even with all of the safety equipment and meteorological forecasting technology available, incidences may take place. In some remote cold locations, snow and ice can create slippery situations. Fast, powerful winds can damage equipment and cause serious injuries to personnel on board.

TREATING HYPOTHERMIA

The main goal of treating hypothermia is to bring the body temperature up to normal.

Upon discovering a person suffering from hypothermia at your workplace, immediate treatment is essential.

 FIRST AID CARE FOR HYPOTHERMIA INCLUDES:

·         Getting the victim to a warm place and

·         Using coverings/blankets and heat sources to warm the body. 

In case a person is suffering from hypothermia from a FALL OVERBOARD then:

·         Remove the wet clothing in order to get warmer.

·         Warm compresses, blankets, and warm beverages can all help to elevate the body temperature.

EVERY O&G PLATFORM, RIG OR INSTALLATION WILL HAVE ACCESS TO MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS & THE PROPER EQUIPMENT FOR TREATMENT OF HYPOTHERMIC VICTIM. 

CERTAIN OTHER MEDICAL PROCEDURES TO TREAT HYPOTHERMIA INCLUDE:

• Blood re-warming, or withdrawing and warming blood and then re-circulating it through the body.
• Oxygen can also be used to rewarm the airways and warm intravenous fluids may be injected to warm the body.

EVERY EMPLOYER IS OBLIGATED TO MAKE SURE THAT THE WORKERS HAVE THE EQUIPMENT & TRAINING TO WORK SAFELY EVEN IN UNPREDICTABLE & CHALLENGING COLD WEATHER CONDITIONS.