Critical Incident Response Training Course Outline

The Agriculture Industry is renowned for looking after your family and your workmates. In the event of a sudden illness or injury, the outcome of the patient is predominantly determined by the care they receive in the first hour. This is known as The Golden Hour. As we know, time to Medical Care for those of us who live and/or work in Rural and Remote areas is well outside this hour. So we owe it to our family and workmates to be best prepared, just in case.

Many organisations have policies in Head Office that refer to the management of a Critical Incident or Fatality. And that’s a good thing. But, without a simple and workable, ready-to-go process, it can still be handled inappropriately in the moment. Why? Because when a Critical Incident occurs no one checks the policy manual.

So we have designed the Critical Incident Response course for Agricultural properties and organisations.

Framework:

  • AIIMS Control a Level 1 Incident
  • Rural and Remote First Aid (RARFA) Methodology: Recognise, Plan, Communicate, Assemble, Respond, Assess, Review

Duration: 14 hours (adjustable based on depth and exercises)

Target Audience: Individuals or teams responsible for responding to critical incidents in their workplace or community, particularly in rural and remote settings.

Course Objectives:

  • Understand the AIIMS Control a Level 1 Incident framework and its application to various critical incidents.
  • Apply the RARFA methodology to effectively respond to critical incidents in resource-limited environments.
  • Utilise the SMEAC template for clear and concise situational awareness reporting.
  • Communicate effectively with others using the ETHANE method for sitreps.
  • Practice critical thinking and decision-making skills in simulated scenarios.

Course Outline:

Module 1: Introduction to Critical Incident Response

  • Definition and types of critical incidents
  • Impact of critical incidents on individuals and organisations
  • Importance of preparedness and planning

Module 2: AIIMS Control a Level 1 Incident Framework

  • Overview of the AIIMS framework and its key principles
  • Identifying a Level 1 incident
  • Applying the AIIMS actions

Module 3: Rural and Remote First Aid Methodology

  • Recognise: Understanding and identifying critical incidents in a rural/remote setting
  • Plan: Initial actions, resource limitations, and contingency planning
  • Communicate: Establishing clear communication channels and reporting procedures
  • Assemble: Utilising available resources and personnel effectively
  • Respond: Implementing appropriate first aid and control measures
  • Assess: Ongoing evaluation of the situation and casualties
  • Review: Debriefing, learning, and improving response protocols

Module 4: Effective Communication and Reporting (1 hour)

  • Introduction to the SMEAC template (Situation, Mission, Execution, Administration,Control/Command)
  • Applying SMEAC for clear and concise response planning
  • The ETHANE method for effective communication of urgent information (Exact location, Type of Incident or Illness, Hazards at scene or en route, Access and egress, Number of casualties,
  • Creating templates and systems for each property

Module 5: Practical Exercises and Scenarios

  • Applying learned skills through realistic critical incident simulations
  • Practising decision-making, communication, and teamwork
  • Debriefing and feedback on performance

Module 6: Handling a Fatality (1.5 hours)

  • Impact of a Fatality: Discuss the emotional and legal implications of a workplace fatality.
  • Worksafe Notification and Requirements: Explain the legal obligation to notify WorkSafe immediately after a serious incident resulting in a fatality.
  • Outline the information required for notification, as per WorkSafe guidelines in your state/territory (refer to WorkSafe websites for specific details).
  • Preserving the Scene: Emphasise the importance of preserving the scene for WorkSafe investigation.
  • Discuss securing the area, minimising disturbance, and documenting the scene.
  • Supporting Workers: Explore strategies for providing emotional support and critical incident stress debriefing to affected workers.
  • Discuss the importance of clear communication and ongoing updates

Assessment:

  • Participation in practical exercises and group discussions
  • Written knowledge assessment (optional)