What resources are available to help develop an EMS-specific safety program?

The National EMS Safety Council (NEMSSC), a coalition of national EMS organizations, recently compiled several recommendations to encourage EMS safety practices at the agency level. The new primer, “Guide for Developing an EMS Agency Safety Program”, is intended to serve as a road map for EMS agencies to develop and implement a comprehensive safety program.

Recognizing that EMS agencies have differing levels of resources available for safety programs, the guide contains sample policies EMS agencies can adopt or readily customize to their particular agency type, size and needs. Topics addressed include roles and responsibilities of the safety officer, facility safety and security, vehicle operator safety, scene safety, infection control, personal health and safety, and patient safety. Read more and download the free guide here.