Aiming to fulfill a specific need of the community through the Company’s CSR agenda, LB Finance has introduced a ‘First Aid training program’ for three wheel drivers with the support of training partner, BeSmart Solutions (Pvt) Ltd.
The program which aims to fill the knowledge gap of three wheel drivers consists of theoretical and practical training sessions on a range of first aid techniques including performing Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and safe transportation of casualties.
The pilot program of the entire project is due to take place in Matara in partnership with the Three Wheel Drivers’ Association and the motor traffic division of the Matara SP’s office with the participation of 100 three wheel drivers.
Upon completion of the pilot project, LB Finance plans to implement a series of similar training sessions across the nation.
Statistics compiled by Sri Lanka Police indicate that in year 2016 the total number of accidental road deaths reached an alarming total of 3,003. General observations indicate that three wheel drivers are quick to act on such occasions to provide aid and transportation services. When LB Finance became aware of this situation, the Company took the initiative to launch a program of this nature to minimise road accident casualties.
Managing Director of LB Finance, Sumith Adhihetty said, “It is a known fact that generally three wheel drivers often come to the rescue of unfortunate victims of road accidents. However, lack of knowledge and training puts these victims at the risk of losing their lives or suffering serious complications during transportation to the hospital or prior to that due to improper administration of first aid.
“This training program is our way of filling this vacuum through training three wheel drivers. The pilot project in Matara will enable us to identify the practical needs and redesign the program. When we are ready to launch the program islandwide, we plan to train approximately 1,000 three wheel drivers during the first phase itself.”
The pilot training session will include four separate training sessions during which 25 selected drivers will train under a professional First Aid Trainer. Following the completion of the program, each participant will receive a portable first aid kit as well as a sticker confirming that he or she has undergone professional training in administration of first aid.
“This is a worthy cause that we are pleased to introduce for the benefit of all Sri Lankans. I am confident that with proper training, three wheel drivers will be able to effectively help victims of road accidents,” said Suresh Nalaka, OIC - Motor Traffic Division of the Matara SP’s office.
LB Finance has continued to remain a pioneer in aligning the needs and interests of Sri Lanka with the many CSR initiatives carried out over the years. As a responsible corporate citizen, LB Finance has etched CSR as one of the top priorities among the various business activities it engages in.