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    BeautyKiln

    First Aid Basics

    Essential first aid steps for common workplace emergencies in beauty settings.

    Allergic Reaction

    1. 1Stop the treatment immediately
    2. 2Assess severity — mild (rash/itching) vs severe (swelling, breathing difficulty)
    3. 3For severe reactions: call 999, place client in recovery position
    4. 4For mild reactions: apply cold compress, monitor closely
    5. 5Document everything: time, symptoms, product used, batch number
    6. 6Contact your insurer within 24 hours

    Burns (Chemical or Heat)

    1. 1Cool under running water for at least 20 minutes
    2. 2Remove contaminated clothing if not stuck to skin
    3. 3Do NOT apply creams, butter, or ice
    4. 4Cover with cling film or clean non-fluffy dressing
    5. 5Call 999 if burn is larger than the client's hand, or on face/hands/feet
    6. 6Document and notify your insurer

    Fainting

    1. 1Help the client lie down and raise their legs
    2. 2Loosen any tight clothing
    3. 3Open windows for fresh air
    4. 4When they recover, give small sips of water
    5. 5Don't let them leave immediately — observe for 10 minutes
    6. 6If they don't recover within 2 minutes, call 999

    Cuts & Bleeding

    1. 1Wear disposable gloves
    2. 2Apply firm pressure with clean gauze or dressing
    3. 3Elevate the injured area above heart level
    4. 4If blood soaks through, add more dressing on top
    5. 5For severe bleeding that won't stop, call 999
    6. 6Dispose of blood-contaminated waste in clinical waste bin

    Eye Contamination

    1. 1Flush the eye with clean water for at least 15 minutes
    2. 2Hold the eye open and tilt head to the affected side
    3. 3Remove contact lenses if easily accessible
    4. 4Do NOT rub the eye
    5. 5Note the product involved and check the SDS (Safety Data Sheet)
    6. 6Seek medical attention — call 111 or go to A&E

    Choking

    1. 1Encourage coughing if the client can still breathe
    2. 2If they can't speak or cough: give up to 5 back blows between shoulder blades
    3. 3If back blows fail: give up to 5 abdominal thrusts (Heimlich manoeuvre)
    4. 4Alternate between back blows and abdominal thrusts
    5. 5Call 999 if the obstruction doesn't clear
    6. 6Even if resolved, advise the client to see a doctor

    This is general guidance only — not a substitute for first aid training. Consider taking a recognised first aid course (e.g. HSE-approved).

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