What should an employer do when an employee loses consciousness at work?

When an employee loses consciousness at work, the appropriate action for an employer is to report the incident to OSHA immediately. This action is critical for several reasons. First, loss of consciousness could be indicative of a serious medical issue that may need immediate attention and could pose a danger not only to the affected employee but also to others in the workplace. Reporting the incident ensures that the event is properly documented and evaluated as part of workplace safety and hazard assessment processes.

Additionally, OSHA requires certain incidents to be reported under its regulations, particularly when they involve serious injury or workplace fatalities. This helps in maintaining a safe working environment by allowing for further investigation and analysis of potential hazards that could cause similar incidents in the future.

The other options do not adequately address the seriousness of the situation. Simply waiting to see if the employee wakes up does not prioritize their health and safety. Sending the employee home to rest could lead to further complications if they are unwell and not capable of making safe decisions for themselves. Lastly, calling the family for advice does not provide immediate medical support or an appropriate response to a potentially life-threatening situation. The best course of action is to ensure that the employee receives the necessary medical assistance and that proper protocols are followed.