Guide: Understanding the ABC Rule in First Aid
First aid skills are essential in both the workplace and daily life. With a simple method—the ABC rule—you can save a life in minutes. This protocol enables you to respond effectively during an emergency while awaiting professional help.
The ABC Rule Explained
ABC stands for:
A for Airway: Clear the victim's airway.
B for Breathing: Check if the person is breathing normally.
C for Circulation: Begin chest compressions if necessary.
This rule is central to all first aid training, especially in professional settings.
A – Airway: Check the Airway
This is the most urgent step. Without oxygen, brain damage occurs quickly.
- Speak to the person: Look for a response.
- Gently shake them to check consciousness.
- Open their mouth to remove any obstruction.
- Listen for breathing for no more than 10 seconds.
Once the airway is clear, proceed to the next step.
B – Breathing: Observe Breathing
- Look for chest movement.
- Listen for breathing sounds near the nose or mouth.
- Feel for breath on your cheek.
If the person is breathing, place them in the recovery position. If not, immediately begin first aid: 30 chest compressions followed by 2 rescue breaths, repeating until help arrives.
C – Circulation: Perform Compressions
- Place your hands in the center of the chest.
- Press quickly and firmly, 100 to 120 times per minute (to the rhythm of a fast song).
- Switch rescuers every two minutes if possible.
These actions are included in all workplace first aid training, as they can make a significant difference.
Why It's Crucial in the Workplace
Each year in Switzerland, many incidents occur in the workplace. Training your employees in first aid also strengthens workplace safety and reduces risks.
It's a shared responsibility: managers, HR, and leaders can all take the initiative to implement an effective prevention plan.
Need Help Training Your Teams?
Protectas offers concrete solutions to enhance your company's workplace safety, with first aid training programs tailored to your sector and specific risks.
Contact us now via our form—response guaranteed within 24 hours.
