The Red Cross provides training for employees

Guinea Alumina Corporation (GAC S.A.), a major player in the mining sector in the Republic of Guinea, ensures that its employees and subcontractors benefit from several first aid training sessions.

This initiative is part of GAC's ongoing campaign to ensure the safety of its subcontractors' employees and staff. While health and safety training has started in Tinguilinta, it is planned that it will also soon be deployed at the -other company facilities in Kamsar and Conakry. These sessions take the form of formal lectures, as well as practical exercises including CPR (cardiac massage and assisted breathing), immobilization of the patient, lifting and carrying, bleeding management, etc. These interventions are facilitated by representatives of the Guinean Red Cross.

"We cannot cover all the medical contingencies that may happen to employees," said Dr. Pierrot Guilavogui, one of the Red Cross members on site. "However, we can cover the majority of situations that employees may encounter. Part of our job is to make sure employees keep the concept of safe practices and healthy foremost in their in mind. We appreciate the opportunity to share our knowledge. GAC appreciates that this training helps to establish and maintain a safe and fulfilling work environment. "

The camp's medical expert, Dr. Fred Kabike of INHEMACO (International Health Management Consultants), also stresses the importance of this initiative: "It is imperative that everyone here, wherever their work and whatever they do, operates in a healthy and safe environment. The Zero-Harm program is our goal. It must be pursued and practiced all the time. It is part of one of the many programs developed by the Red Cross. [...] Believe me, I wish more than anything that my services here at the camp will not be necessary in the future."

The three key messages conveyed to employees regarding the importance of first aid training are:
• At some point in your life, you will probably need help in the event of a medical emergency.
• It is better to have a good knowledge of first aid actions, without necessarily having to practice them, rather than having to practice them, but without having any knowledge of them.
• Rescuers do not need to diagnose medical problems, but they can use their knowledge to focus on the causes or possible problems that will allow them to provide first aid.

GAC is committed to promoting and maintaining a safe working environment by carrying out its Zero-Harm activities with its employees, using appropriate materials and procedures.