A Step-By-Step Guide To Dealing with Snake Bites on the Job

For tradies working in environments where snakes are a potential hazard, knowing how to handle a snake bite is crucial. This step-by-step guide will help you respond to a snake bite on the job, while also introducing you to essential products like the FastAid Evo-Bandage, FastAid Premium First Aid Snake & Spider Bite Kit, and Big Jim Snake Protection Leggings. By following these steps, you’ll be better prepared to protect yourself and your colleagues.

Step 1: Assess the Situation

• Remain calm and ensure your safety. Move away from the snake to prevent further bites.
• Call for help or medical assistance immediately at Triple Zero (000).

Step 2: Immobilize the Affected Limb

• Keep the bitten limb as still as possible to prevent the venom from spreading.
• Ensure that the victim is lying down in a total resting position. It is crucial to NOT move or transport them.

Step 3: Apply the FastAid Evo-Bandage Premium Snake Bite Bandage

• Unroll the FastAid Evo-Bandage to its full length.
• Start by applying it just above the snakebite area, then wrap it firmly in a spiral pattern towards the heart.
• Ensure the bandage is tight but not too tight to cut off blood flow – one way to check is to ensure that you CANNOT easily slide a finger underneath.

Step 4: Mark the Bite Location

• Use a pen to mark the area around the snakebite on top of the bandage. This helps medical professionals identify the bite location.
• FastAid Evo-Bandage has indicators to ensure fast, easy and precise application of compression to the bite area. 

Step 5: Keep the Affected Limb Elevated

• Elevate the bitten limb to heart level if possible. This reduces the flow of venom towards the vital organs.

Step 6: Do Not Cut or Suck the Wound

• Contrary to popular belief, cutting the wound or attempting to suck out the venom is NOT recommended and can worsen the situation.

Step 7: Monitor Vital Signs

• Keep an eye on the victim’s vital signs, such as pulse and breathing.
• If the victim starts to show signs of shock, reassure and comfort them.

Step 8: Use the FastAid Premium First Aid Snake & Spider Bite Kit

• This essential Snake & Spider Kit comes with a foam padded splint, shears, permanent marker, CPR mask and whistle to attract attention. 
• The Snake & Spider Identification Sheet included in the kit helps you make informed decisions about the appropriate treatment based on the source of the bite.

Step 9: Wait for Professional Medical Help

• The best treatment for snake bites is antivenom administered by healthcare professionals.
• Continue to immobilize the affected limb and keep the victim comfortable until medical help arrives.

Step 10: Prevention

• To prevent future snake bites, consider investing in protective gear such as Big Jim Snake Protection Leggings.
• Learn to identify snake species in your area and be cautious in snake-prone environments.
• For more information, follow this guide by Safer Victoria.

Australians working outdoors are highly at risk from snake bites, especially coming into warmer seasons. Tradies working in rural and remote settings, industrial zones, parks, gardens and even the transport sector have to be vigilant to handle snake bite situations. Remember to stay calm, immobilize the affected limb, use a Snake Bite Kit and bandage, and seek professional medical assistance. By following these steps, you can protect yourself and your colleagues from the potential dangers of snake encounters on the job.

Shop the FastAid Premium Snake Bite Evo-Bandage here
Shop the FastAid Limited Edition Premium First Aid Snake & Spider Bit Kit here
Shop Big Jim Snake Protection Leggings here