How you respond to a snake bite at your workplace can mean the difference between life and death.
Australia is home to some of the world’s most venomous snakes, making it crucial for at-risk workplaces to have proper first aid protocols and trained staff.
It’s critical to understand the essential steps to take when dealing with a snake bite at work, including vital information and first aid supplies that can save a life.
What to do in the event of a snake bite at work
The Pressure Immobilisation Technique (PIT) is the standard procedure for snake bite first aid in Australia.
1. Follow DRSABCD. Call Triple Zero (000) for an ambulance immediately. If no breathing, start CPR.
2. If breathing, lie the patient down and keep them immobile. Do not remove clothing.
3. Do not cut, suck, clean or tourniquet the area.
4. If there is only one bandage available, apply the single bandage Pressure Immobilisation Technique (PIT):
- Starting at finger/toe tips, firmly wrap the bandage past the bite site along the limb as far as possible to immobilise and restrict venom flow
- Leave finger/toe tips exposed to check circulation
- X-mark the bite site on the bandage
5. If there’s more than one bandage, apply the double bandage Pressure Immobilisation Technique (PIT):
- Starting at the bite site, firmly wrap the limb in the first bandage, extending as far up and down the limb as possible
- Firmly wrap the second bandage from finger/toe tips past bite site, along the limb as far as possible to immobilise and restrict venom flow
- X-mark the bite site on the bandage
6. Splint the limb, keeping it immobilised and level with the rest of the body. Keep the patient reassured and completely still.
7. Do not attempt to catch or identify the snake.
8. Monitor patient’s breathing and prepare for CPR until ambulance arrives.
How common are snake bites in Australia?
Around 3,000 Australians are bitten by snakes annually, with more than 100 venomous species in rural and urban areas.
Snake activity increases in warmer months, leading to a higher risk for those who spend time outdoors.
All Australians should be familiar with snake bite treatment and keep a snake bite first aid kit readily available.
Workplace locations where snake encounters occur
Understanding where snakes are likely to be encountered can help prevent the incidence of snake bite. High-risk areas include:
- Storage yards with building materials or timber
- Rarely accessed equipment, machinery or vehicles
- Neglected areas accumulating junk or debris
- Landscaped gardens and lawn edges
- Water sources and drainage areas
- Solar panel installations
How to identify a snake bite when it’s not obvious
Contrary to popular belief, snake bites aren’t always immediately apparent.
In up to 90 percent of cases, the bite site may show minimal visible trauma and no bleeding.
Workers might dismiss a seemingly minor scratch or not even notice the bite, particularly if wearing long pants or boots. Key indicators include:
- Paired fang marks (though not always visible)
- Scratches or single puncture wounds
- Localised burning sensation or sharp pain
- Slight bruising or redness
- Sweating or cold skin around the bite site
Why traditional first aid methods can be dangerous
Several outdated first aid practices continue to circulate in workplace training, potentially causing harm. These include:
- Cutting or sucking the bite site
- Applying tourniquets
- Washing the bite area
- Attempting to catch or kill the snake
- Applying ice or heat
- Using snake bite kits with suction devices
Essential workplace snake bite first aid kit requirements
Beyond basic first aid supplies, every workplace in potentially snake-prone areas should maintain a dedicated snake bite first aid kit containing:
- Snake bite bandage with indicators
- Disposable gloves
- Non-adherent dressing
- Safety pins
- Instructions for snake bite first aid and CPR
Why workplace snake bite victims should never walk to seek help
One of the most dangerous yet common mistakes is allowing or encouraging a snake bite patient to walk to a vehicle or first aid station.
This can be fatal because motion accelerates venom movement through the lymphatic system, potentially speeding up envenomation by 50 to 80 percent. Instead:
- Call Triple Zero (000) for an ambulance immediately
- Keep the patient calm, laying down flat and immobile
- Bring first aid to the patient
- Use a stretcher or improvised carrying device
- Have emergency transport come as close as possible to the patient
- Ensure workplace emergency plans account for patient transportation
Importance of maintaining patient consciousness
A critical aspect often overlooked in workplace first aid training is the importance of keeping a snake bite patient conscious and engaged. This serves multiple purposes:
- Helps manage anxiety and panic
- Allows ongoing monitoring of symptoms
- Provides valuable information to emergency services
Essential signs and symptoms
Monitoring essential signs and symptoms following a snake bite is crucial to ensure timely and effective medical intervention.
Snake venom can have a range of effects on the body, from mild symptoms to severe complications. Training should emphasise monitoring for these critical symptoms:
- Headache or confusion
- Nausea or vomiting
- Blurred or double vision
- Breathing difficulties
- Muscle weakness or twitching
- Speaking or swallowing problems
- Collapsed or unconscious state
Post-incident workplace procedures
After a snake bite incident, proper post-incident procedures ensure the ongoing safety and wellbeing of all employees
Assessing and improving safety protocols can reduce the risk of future incidents. Proper procedures following a snake bite include:
- Replenishing or replacing used workplace snake bite first aid kits
- Documenting all observations and actions taken
- Photographing the bite site on the body if possible
- Reviewing and updating risk assessments
- Conducting incident investigation
- Updating emergency response procedures
Creating an effective workplace snake safety culture
Building a strong snake safety culture in the workplace is crucial, especially in outdoor and rural areas where snake encounters are common.
It ensures employees know how to avoid snakes and respond safely if a bite happens. This approach reduces risks, helps employees feel secure and shows that their safety is a priority.
A good safety culture not only protects workers but also helps prevent disruptions and safety issues related to snake incidents. Developing a robust snake safety culture involves:
- Regular training and refresher courses
- Clear communication protocols
- Proper equipment maintenance
- Incident reporting systems
- Environmental risk management
- Seasonal awareness campaigns
Conclusion
Managing snake bite incidents in the workplace requires both preparedness and proper response procedures.
By implementing first aid training, maintaining accessible snake bite first aid kits and fostering a strong safety culture, workplaces can significantly reduce the risks associated with snake bites.
Regular training, awareness, and clear protocols ensure that employees not only understand how to respond but also feel empowered to act swiftly and safely in an emergency.
By prioritising these practices, workplaces protect their employees, minimise disruptions and create a safer environment for everyone.
References
Healthdirect Australia - Snake bites
Queensland Poisons Information Centre - Snake bites
WorkSafe Victoria - Beware of hidden hazards in flood clean-up