Acid attack first aid
Understand and prepare. Statistics show that robberies and revenge attacks involving acid are increasing with the total number exceeding 500 in 2016/17. In November 2017 the Metropolitan Police Service led a multi-agency exercise to prepare hospitality businesses for acid attacks. How should you brief your staff?
First response. The emergency services emphasise that the first few moments following an attack are vital; effective action at this point can vastly improve the outcome for the victim.
Tip. If you’re in a public interfacing business, especially in a city centre, it makes sense to brief your staff on what to do if faced with a suspected acid attack victim.
Staff should: (1) ask someone to dial 999 to report the incident; (2) if possible, without contaminating themselves, remove contaminated clothing quickly but carefully (but if it’s stuck do not forcibly remove it); and (3) most importantly, apply substantial amounts of water to the affected skin. Cool water should be continually used to flush the affected area until the burning sensation subsides. Do not apply creams.
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