Wade Darling (left), Josh Kearns (second from right) and Mick Cassar (right) with cardiac arrest survivor and workmate Colin Paine. (Courtesy – Macleay Argus)
Finding a co-worker slumped unconscious, purple and cold to the touch, can very quickly turn an ordinary day at work into something extraordinary. This was the situation that faced five construction workers at the Kempsey Bypass in late 2012. However, their quick thinking actions, which have been honoured this week, went on to save the life of one lucky truck driver.
Colin Payne, who had been working at the bypass site for more than two years, has no recollection of what had happened that day. He was found by his colleagues in the cab of his truck, slumped over the steering wheel not breathing.
Thankfully for Mr Paine, his co-workers quickly realised the gravity of the situation and began administering life-saving first aid. They dialled for an ambulance and performed CPR until paramedics arrived at the scene. It then took five shocks from a defibrillator and the administration of adrenaline before the truck driver started breathing again. He was rushed to hospital but has since made a full recovery.
The first aiders that saved Mr Paine’s life, have this week been recognised by NSW Ambulance. The five men eached received the prestigious NSW Ambulance certificate of appreciation for an act worthy of recognition by a member of the community. Mr Payne also received a Cardiac Arrest Survivor award, one award which you don’t want to get!
Mr Paine believes his incident highlights the importance of all workers and the wider community to learn first aid. “The way the blokes handled the situation saved my life and I will never be able to repay them. All I know is that I think it would be beneficial for all companies to put their employees through a first aid course,” he said.
NSW Ambulance Zone Manager, Superintendent Evan Clark who presented the awards reinforced this message. “I have no doubt that these five men saved Colin’s life and it should be a reminder to the whole community that knowing first-aid can give someone a second chance at life prior to paramedics’ arrival,” Superintendent Clark said.
Coastal First Aid was privileged to provide on-site First Aid training for the Kempsey Bypass Alliance and prepare them for emergency situations such as Colin Paine’s. If you would like information about organising First Aid training for your workplace or group please contact us via email info@coastalfirstaid.com.au.
