'Better Call Saul' star’s heart attack stirs employer concerns

Bob Odenkirk, one of my favorite actors, who plays morally challenged criminal defense attorney Saul Goodman on Better Call Saul, was rushed to an Albuquerque hospital recently after suffering a heart attack on set. Thankfully, he is doing well and recovering at home. Upon reading the news about the heart attack, it got me thinking: How many employers and managers know what to do if an employee experiences a medical emergency on the job?

If your crisis protocol involves calling 911 and hoping for the best, you’ve got some work to do. Here are three steps you can take to help you handle the unexpected.

Make a plan

Before a medical emergency arises, be sure you have a clear response plan:

• If someone needs assistance, who will be responsible for calling 911 or administering first aid?
• Do you have updated emergency contact information for all your employees?
• Have you trained them on what to do in a medical emergency and posted the information in a conspicuous place for easy reference?

Take a minute to reflect on how you would answer the questions, and start planning accordingly.

Have medical supplies on hand