Why Every Business Should Have a Defibrillator on Hand

Lucy Dale

Published:1 November 2024

Workplaces are designed with safety in mind; fire extinguishers on every floor, emergency exits clearly marked, and first-aid kits within reach. But there’s one critical element often missing: a defibrillator. In the midst of all these precautions, what happens when an employee suddenly collapses from cardiac arrest? It’s not the smoke alarm that will save them, but the swift use of an AED.

Imagine your team facing such a moment. Without an AED on hand and with no training, confusion takes over. Colleagues are left helpless as the seconds tick by. However, when businesses prioritise having a defibrillator and training their employees, that same situation transforms into a coordinated life-saving effort.

Cardiac arrest doesn’t send a warning – it can happen to anyone at any time. The real question is whether your workplace is equipped to act immediately.

The Stark Reality of Sudden Cardiac Arrest

Out-of-hospital cardiac arrests are more common than most people realise. In fact, they account for over 30,000 cardiac arrests annually in the UK. Businesses where employees and clients gather daily are not immune to this risk. Without immediate treatment, the odds of survival are grim – dropping by 10% for every minute that passes without defibrillation.

At the heart of this statistic is one undeniable truth: timely access to an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) can literally be the difference between life and death.

The Critical Role of AEDs in the Workplace

Having an AED on – site is about more than just compliance – it’s about giving your employees the tools they need to act swiftly in an emergency. AEDs are designed to be user – friendly, guiding even those with no medical experience through each step of saving a life.

Unparalleled Speed: AEDs can deliver a life-saving shock within minutes, which is crucial in a cardiac arrest. Every second counts and immediate defibrillation can increase survival rates to as much as 70%.
Ease of Use: Modern AEDs are designed for use by the untrained. The device provides clear, simple instructions, taking the guesswork out of a critical moment.

For more on how AEDs function and their importance, check out our detailed guide to AED operation.

Legal Obligations: Protecting Your Workforce

In the UK, the Health and Safety at Work Act makes it a legal requirement for businesses to ensure the safety and well – being of their employees. While AEDs may not be mandatory in all workplaces, having one on – site can be the key to fulfilling your duty of care.

In high – risk industries like construction, manufacturing, and transportation, the likelihood of cardiac events increases. Even in lower – risk environments, such as offices, cardiac arrest can strike unexpectedly. By providing AEDs, businesses reduce the likelihood of facing legal challenges and demonstrate their commitment to safeguarding their staff.

1 November 2024

Busting Common Myths about AEDs

Despite the proven benefits, some businesses hesitate to invest in defibrillators due to common misconceptions:

“It’s too expensive.” AEDs are a one-time investment in safety, with most costing between £800 and £1,500. When weighed against potential legal fees, lost work hours, and – most importantly – the value of a human life, the cost becomes insignificant.
“You need extensive training.” While CPR and AED training are beneficial, modern AEDs are designed to walk you through the process step-by-step. In an emergency, even an untrained person can operate one effectively.
“It’s only for medical professionals.” This couldn’t be further from the truth. AEDs are explicitly built for non-medical bystanders to use, ensuring that anyone can be the first responder in a life-threatening situation.

Corporate Social Responsibility: More Than Just Compliance

Beyond legal obligations, having a defibrillator in the workplace signals a commitment to your team’s well-being. It shows that you care about more than just profits – you value lives. Implementing life-saving equipment like AEDs boosts employee morale and confidence, knowing that their safety is prioritised.

Companies that take their corporate social responsibility seriously are viewed as leaders in safety and compassion. Offering AED training to your staff adds another layer of preparedness, making your workplace safer and giving your team the confidence to act decisively.

The Ripple Effect: How AEDs Impact Workplaces

When you invest in an AED, you’re not just purchasing a device—you’re empowering your team. Employees who have access to safety training and essential life-saving tools like AEDs are more likely to engage in safety practices in other areas, creating a more vigilant and health-conscious work environment. This ripple effect can reduce workplace accidents and injuries, making it a more productive and harmonious space.

What Should You Do Next?

Assess Your Workplace: Determine high-traffic areas where an AED would be most effective.
Get Trained: While AEDs are simple to use, offering your staff basic training increases confidence in handling emergencies.
Maintain Your Device: Regular maintenance ensures that your AED is always ready for use.
Prepare for Emergencies: Conduct regular emergency response drills to ensure everyone knows what to do in case of a cardiac arrest.

Conclusion: A Lifesaving Decision

The reality of sudden cardiac arrest is that it can strike anywhere at any time. As a business owner or manager, the responsibility of ensuring the safety of your team and clients falls squarely on your shoulders. Investing in a defibrillator isn’t just a safety measure – it’s a life-saving necessity.

Is your business ready to protect its most valuable asset: its people? Make the lifesaving decision today.