Every now and again, situations occur either in the workplace or in our personal lives that can shake us to the core. Recently, our D&J family had one of those experiences.
It was a typical Friday morning in the field, and everyone was busy at work trying to complete tasks before the weekend. Project superintendent, Drew Smith was overseeing the lab renovations at the Geauga University Hospital. He was clearing out some debris behind the jobsite trailer and realized he was stung by a few yellow jackets several times on the head and once on the hand. Not thinking much about it; as he had never had allergies to bee stings before, he went about his business. Just minutes later, he felt extremely lethargic, dizzy, and had blurred vision. He instantly knew that something was very wrong. Luckily, coworker and carpenter Pat Kral was working nearby. Just as Drew approached Pat, he felt his legs give out from under him.
Pat sprang into action, examined the situation, and saw how Drew was acting. He immediately helped him walk to the Emergency Room, which luckily was only 150 yards from where they were working. Drew was in and out of consciousness, and apparently had a reaction to the multiple stings. The medical staff at University Hospitals immediately admitted Drew, began pumping him with fluids and Benadryl, and transferred him to the Intensive Care Unit. Nobody could believe how quickly this situation occurred. Drew remained in the ICU overnight until the hospital released him the following day.
As our employees know, safety in the office and field are paramount for Dunlop & Johnston, Inc. Our firm prides itself on providing extensive OSHA 30 training annually for both our project managers and superintendents. In addition, the company also requires CPR and substance abuse instruction for all employees on a regular basis. In spite of all this extensive safety education, it takes a special skill to be prepared for situations like what happened to Drew.
The hospital staff noted that had it not been for the immediate and proactive efforts of Pat Kral, Drew would likely have not survived the incident. We were very fortunate that the two gentlemen were working together and in close proximity that day when the event occurred.
Let this be a reminder to all (especially those working out in the elements, nature and around the multiple hazards at construction sites) along with jobsite safety practices, it is just as important to keep tabs on the health and well-being of your fellow employees.
Being aware of your surroundings, staying alert, and looking out for your coworkers CAN save a life! It is always best to have a proactive attitude rather than reactive, as you can never be sure when every minute or second can make a difference in someone's life.
Drew comments how lucky he was that morning. The quick action of Pat and the first responders at the hospital is the reason he is alive and well right now and why the entire D&J family is counting our blessings.
