OFA Level 3 Worker Positioning: Best Practices for Safety & Transport

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As an OFA Level 3 attendant, knowing how to safely and effectively position an injured worker is a crucial skill. Proper positioning ensures effective assessments, critical interventions, and safe transport preparation. In this guide, we’ll cover best practices for worker positioning and explain when and how to move a worker safely.

Why Worker Positioning Matters

Proper positioning serves several key purposes:

  • Ensures worker safety and prevents further injury.

  • Allows for effective assessment and treatment.

  • Maintains a sanitary and clean work environment.

  • Facilitates safe transport for RTC (Rapid Transport Category) cases.

Before moving a worker, ask:

  1. Can I assess them properly in their current position?

  2. Can I provide necessary treatment without moving them?

If the answer to either question is no, the worker should be repositioned appropriately.

Key Principles of Safe Worker Positioning

✅ Spinal Motion Restriction – If a spinal injury is suspected, stabilize the head and neck manually. Avoid movement unless absolutely necessary.

✅ Clear Communication – Always explain your actions before moving a worker. Ask them to report any pain or discomfort during repositioning.

✅ Use Assistance When Possible – If available, train helpers to support head and neck stabilization while you focus on other care aspects.

✅ Prioritize Cleanliness – Always ensure proper hygiene before and after responding to an incident.

✅ Err on the Side of Caution – When in doubt, assume a spinal injury and apply motion restriction protocols.

Common Positioning Techniques

1. Choosing the Safest Position

  • If the worker cannot be assessed in their current position, move them to supine.

2. Moving from Standing or Sitting to Supine

  • Used when a spinal injury is suspected.

  1. Instruct the worker to move slowly to a seated position, keeping their head and neck still.

  2. A helper should kneel opposite the worker to assist in balance and weight support.

  3. Guide them backward while stabilizing the head and neck.

  4. Once supine, check for spinal alignment and maintain manual stabilization.

3. Moving from Prone to Supine

  • Used when a worker is face down and a spinal injury is suspected.

  1. Position yourself at the worker’s head, gripping the trapezius muscle closest to the ground.

  2. Place your other hand on their face/head for support.

  3. A helper should grip the hip and shoulder on the opposite side.

  4. Coordinate a roll to the lateral position, ensuring head and neck stability.

  5. A helper should manually stabilize the head and neck.

  6. Once stabilized, roll the worker into supine position, keeping their body aligned.

4. Supine to ¾-Prone (Recovery Position)

  • Used for unresponsive workers who don’t need spinal motion restriction.

  1. Kneel beside the worker’s abdomen.

  2. Extend one arm outward and rest the other on their chest.

  3. Support their head and neck while gripping clothing below the waist.

  4. Roll them smoothly onto your thighs.

  5. Position their hand under their head or use padding to prevent direct face contact with the ground.

  6. Ensure their leg positioning prevents full rolling into prone.

5. Fore and Aft Lift

  • Used to move non-trauma patients who cannot move independently.

  1. Stand behind the worker and reach under their armpits, gripping opposite wrists.

  2. A helper should support their legs under the knees.

  3. Lift together and move the worker to a stretcher or safer location.

Positioning in Specific Scenarios

Unresponsive Worker with Fluids in the Airway

✔️ Position laterally to allow fluids to drain. ✔️ Suction airway if necessary.

Unresponsive Worker with Airway Obstruction

✔️ Supine positioning with head-tilt, chin-lift maneuver. ✔️ If spinal injury suspected, use jaw thrust to open airway.

Conscious Worker with Partial Airway Obstruction

✔️ Keep them in a comfortable position that maximizes breathing efforts. ✔️ Encourage coughing if possible.

Suspected Spinal Injury

✔️ Maintain spinal motion restriction at all times. ✔️ Use a hard collar and spine board for full immobilization if necessary.

Trauma Patients

✔️ If unable to package supine, use lateral positioning on a spine board for transport. ✔️ Consider this for helicopter transport or major airway concerns.

Essential Equipment for Worker Positioning

🔹 Hard Collar – Provides cervical spine stabilization. 🔹 Spine Board – Ensures full immobilization when needed. 🔹 Scoop Stretcher – Ideal for lifting and transferring patients. 🔹 Blankets & Padding – Helps with comfort and warmth.

Documentation

Always document the following details in the First Aid Record:

  • Positioning techniques used

  • Patient response

  • Any complications encountered

  • Helper assistance provided

Final Thoughts

Effective worker positioning is a vital skill for Vancouver OFA Level 3 attendants. By following safe handling techniques, prioritizing spinal motion restriction when necessary, and maintaining clear communication, you can provide optimal care while reducing the risk of further injury.

🚑 Want to stay sharp? Consider refreshing your skills with an OFA 3 training course to ensure you’re always prepared!

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