Construction workers learn to be lifesavers

Construction workers in Dundee have undergone potentially lifesaving training in emergency life support last week (October 10).

Robertson Tayside subcontractors attended the first of a number of free sessions planned by the infrastructure firm, with trainers from Heartstart Discovery introducing them to techniques that can help prevent devastating outcomes.

Held at Coldside Primary – with members of the workforce as well as some from Robertson's multimillion-pound North East Campus project – the two-hour session included how to care for an unconscious person, how to administer CPR, how to recognise the signs of a heart attack and how to help someone who is choking or badly bleeding.

Kevin Dickson, managing director, Robertson Tayside, said: "All of our employees undergo individual health and safety training as standard, and we wanted to extend that to ensure they also have the capability to provide assistance in any unforeseen circumstances.

"It's fantastic to be working with Heartstart to offer professional training to subcontractors working at the North East Campus site – a project which we are delivering via Scape Group's National Major Works framework.

"We're looking forward to bringing further sessions to Robertson projects across Tayside."

Helen Brady, Heartstart Discovery co-ordinator, said: "I am delighted to be able to work with Robertson to provide Heartstart training for members of their staff and contractors.

"About 70 percent of all cardiac arrests occur outwith the hospital environment – without the life-saving equipment on hand, so knowing what to do when someone collapses is so important and buys vital time until the emergency services arrive."

Once completed, Robertson's North East Campus will include two new schools plus a nursery, with work expected to be completed by summer 2018.