Why Defibrillators Are a Crucial Tool in the Workplace
AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators) are important in the workplace. It is the only tool that can help victims of cardiac arrest, which is a more common occurrence than you might think. It can occur in young, old, fit, or unfit persons.
Unfortunately, not all workplaces are equipped to handle this kind of emergency. Experts strongly recommend that defibrillators be found in every accessible corner, along with any first aid kits that companies will store.
Here are some of the reasons why you should consider getting a defibrillator for your workplace in today’s working conditions.
1. Cardiac Arrest Is More Common than You Think
We often hear about someone getting cardiac arrest and think, “that’s not going to happen to me.” But the sad reality is, cardiac arrest is more common than you think. It is an electrical problem of the heart and its survival rate is less than 9 percent.
Here are some more horrifying facts about cardiac arrest that might shock you to know.
- About 33,000 Australians get cardiac arrest every year
- If a person experiencing cardiac arrest is not treated with an AED defibrillator within minutes, they could die
- When there is no defibrillator around, the chance of surviving cardiac arrest drops down by 10 percent.
- It could take about 16 minutes for responders to arrive on scene after calling the emergency hotline after someone suffers from cardiac arrest. This leaves you with very little time to work with.
2. Defibrillators Aren’t Mandatory, But They Should Be
Unfortunately, defibrillators aren’t mandatory for use in every workplace. There are no specific rules or regulations in Australian law that highlight the importance of defibrillators in day-to-day work life. However, this should be amended.
The Australian Resuscitation Council actually recommends that an Automated External Defibrillator be present in every workplace. It is the responsibility of every business to make its own decisions regarding the health and welfare of their employees.
If you don’t want to risk your employees’ well-being, then getting an AED should be your best bet.
3. They Are Easy to Use
You won’t have to worry about ease of use with an AED defibrillator. It is easy to install, and operate, should a cardiac arrest occur within the premises of your business. It should be straightforward enough that anyone can operate it.
To lessen the cardiac arrest cases that might pop up in the future, you should get a high-quality defibrillator. Modern AEDs are quick to install, plus will be very useful.
4. Defibrillators Are Accessible and Affordable
If you do manage to get a defibrillator, it is important that you place it in a strategic location that allows access for anyone to use it should an opportunity arise. Hiding it away in a cupboard defeats the purpose of having one in the first place. Make sure it is not somewhere too hot nor cold as well.
AEDs are affordable enough for companies to get that won’t sacrifice the health of their employees.
Conclusion
If you are an office-based business, whether working in corporate or manufacturing, it is vital that you get an AED to prevent any employee from suffering from cardiac arrest.
With AEDs, you can only trust Restart The Heart. We supply premium defibrillators, including pads and batteries for all brands, that you might need for your workplace. Order online through us today!