Why Every Business Needs an Onsite AED—And Proper Training to Use It
Imagine this: your workplace has a fire alarm system installed, but no one has ever practiced a fire drill. Or there are fire extinguishers mounted on the walls, but not a single employee knows how to use them in an emergency. The result? A critical safety tool rendered ineffective due to a lack of training and preparedness.
This is the same reality for businesses that invest in an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) but fail to ensure that staff members are properly trained in its use. While having an AED onsite is an important first step in emergency preparedness, its true value is unlocked only when employees are confident and competent in using it during a cardiac emergency.
Sudden Cardiac Arrest: A Workplace Threat
Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. It can strike anyone, anywhere, at any time—regardless of age, fitness level, or medical history. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), more than 350,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests occur in the U.S. each year, and survival rates are critically dependent on immediate intervention with CPR and defibrillation.
Every minute without defibrillation reduces survival chances by 7-10%. However, when an AED is used within the first few minutes of collapse, survival rates can soar to over 70% (AHA, 2023). Businesses that take workplace safety seriously must recognize that AED accessibility—paired with proper training—can be the difference between life and death.
AEDs Are Only as Good as the People Who Use Them
Just like fire safety measures, AEDs require structured implementation. Simply installing an AED is not enough—it must be accessible, visible, and accompanied by regular staff training. Here’s why:
1. Confidence in Emergency Response – A workplace AED is only effective if employees are trained to recognize a cardiac emergency and respond swiftly. Training fosters confidence, ensuring that employees act decisively instead of hesitating.
2. CPR and AED Work Together – CPR helps maintain circulation to vital organs, but defibrillation is often required to restore a normal heart rhythm. Employees who are trained in both CPR and AED use can provide comprehensive emergency care.
3. Legal and Regulatory Compliance – Many regions require workplaces to have AEDs and trained personnel. Investing in staff training can ensure compliance with local workplace safety regulations.
4. Employee and Customer Safety – Businesses have a duty of care toward employees and customers. An AED program with trained responders reflects a proactive approach to workplace health and safety.
Creating an Effective AED Program
A robust AED program doesn’t just involve purchasing the device—it requires structured training and accessibility considerations:
- AED Placement: Devices should be placed in clearly visible, easily accessible locations, much like fire extinguishers. The AHA recommends that AEDs be within a 3-minute round-trip walk from any location in the workplace.
- Signage and Awareness: Clear signage ensures that all employees know where the AED is located.
- Routine Maintenance: AEDs should be regularly checked to ensure they are in working order. Battery and electrode pad expiration dates should be monitored.
- Comprehensive Training: Employees should undergo CPR and AED training from a reputable organization such as the American Heart Association. (AHA) The Resuscitation Group, in Vancouver, WA., is a national AHA Training Center with numerous Instructors and affiliates to support your needs.
Final Thoughts: Be Proactive, Not Reactive
A workplace without trained AED responders is like a building with smoke alarms but no evacuation plan—it creates a false sense of security. Businesses that take the extra step to train staff in CPR and AED not only enhance workplace safety but also foster a culture of preparedness and care for staff and customers.
By ensuring that AEDs are available, accessible, and supported by quality training, businesses can become life-saving environments rather than bystander workplaces. The investment in proper AED implementation today could save a life tomorrow.
References
- American Heart Association (2023). “Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest Statistics.”
- OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration). “AED Implementation in the Workplace.”
- Resuscitation Council UK. “AED Guidelines and Best Practices.”