What should be done first when an employee appears to be injured from a roofing work surface?

When responding to an employee who appears to be injured from a roofing work surface, the priority is to ensure the safety and stability of the individual. Keeping the victim's head and neck stationary is a crucial first step, especially if there is a possibility of a spine or neck injury. Moving the individual could potentially exacerbate any injuries, particularly if they have sustained a fall or impact that might have affected their spinal alignment.

Stabilizing the head and neck ensures that no further harm is done by unnecessary movement. It is essential to prevent any movements until medical professionals can assess the situation, as they are trained to handle such injuries safely. Other actions, such as calling emergency services or performing CPR, are also important but should occur after ensuring the individual’s head and neck are immobilized. This cautionary approach reduces the risk of worsening the injury, prioritizing the victim's long-term health outcomes.

In this context, actions like moving the employee or taking immediate first aid steps without proper stabilization can complicate the situation or cause additional harm. Proper care involves first assessment and stabilization before any further actions are taken.