EMERGENCY GEAR
AUTOMATED EXTERNAL
DEFIBRILLATOR (AED)
The placement of Automated External
Defibrillators in health clubs is only a law in four states so far, but many
other states are developing legislation that would require health clubs to have
AEDs. Now is the time for every facility owner and management team to
start considering installing an AED at their facility. Prices are lower
than ever and restrictions are being lifted to make it easier to get an AED.
Facilities should start budgeting for an AED immediately.
FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
Fires in Health Clubs are not common, but they do
happen. Club owners have a lot of money invested in equipment and it would be
devastating if a fire, especially one that could have been controlled by a fire
extinguisher, damages the club. First and foremost, management should comply
with all local fire codes. Management should have the fire marshal inspect the
club every year.
It is highly recommended that club owners follow the guidelines
set by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA),
Pamphlet #10.
Some of the guidelines are listed below. Owners who have sprinkler systems in
their clubs should make sure that fire extinguishers are readily available. In
the event a small fire breaks out, staff members can control the fire with
extinguishers and prevent the sprinkler system from activating and soaking the
entire club.
Guidelines
- All fire extinguishers must be ABC type.
- There should be 1 Fire Extinguisher for every 3,000*
square feet of floor space.
- Fire Extinguishers must be located no more than 75
ft. of travel space apart.
- Fire Extinguisher use and placement should be part of
the club’s Emergency Response Plan.
FIRST AID KIT
There must be at least 1 adequately stocked First Aid Kit at the facility at all
times. The Kit must be easily accessible by all staff members and clients. It is
recommended that a portable, commercial grade kit be purchased to insure that
all the essential First Aid supplies are included. If management wishes to
create their own First Aid Kit then check the First Aid Kit Contents chart to
the left for what you should include in your kit.
Guidelines
It is highly recommended that injured parties
be allowed to administer their own First Aid if possible. If assistance is
needed then it is recommended that a First Aid certified staff member be
summoned to the scene. Below are items that should be available in the
facility's First Aid Kit:
- Antiseptic Spray
- Band-aids
- Cotton Swabs
- Eye Wash
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- First Aid Manual
- Gauze Pads
- Ice Packs
- Latex Gloves
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