Why Workplace Defibrillator Should Be Mandatory in Australia
In Australia, there are around 30,000 sudden cardiac arrests (SCA) that occur each year outside of a hospital setting. Of these, less than 10% survive. A major reason for this low survival rate is that bystanders often cannot provide timely and effective CPR.
One way to improve the chances of survival for someone suffering a cardiac arrest is to have a defibrillator readily available. A defibrillator is a portable device that can deliver a lifesaving electric shock to the heart, restoring normal rhythm.
The chances of survival in SCA are much higher if CPR and defibrillation are provided within the first few minutes of the SCA.
While defibrillators are becoming more common in public places, many workplaces still do not have one. This is particularly concerning given that cardiac arrests can happen at any time.
Why a Workplace Defibrillator Can Help Save Lives
When it comes to workplace safety, there are a lot of things to consider. One of the most important but often overlooked is the importance of having a workplace defibrillator.
Cardiac arrest is one of Australia's leading causes of death, yet so many workplaces do not have a defibrillator on site. With more than 30,000 Australians suffering a cardiac arrest each year, it is vital that employers do everything they can to ensure their employees are safe.
A defibrillator can be the difference between life and death in the event of a cardiac arrest, and yet so many workplaces don't have one on-site. By having a defibrillator on site, you can ensure that help is always close at hand.
The defibrillator is a simple and easy-to-use device that anyone can use without training. All you need to do is place the pads on the patient's chest and follow the instructions. The defibrillator will then deliver a shock to the heart, which can restart it and save its life.
Why Workplace Defribillators Should Be Mandatory
There are a number of reasons why workplace defibrillators should be mandatory in Australia.
1. Early Defibrillation Is Critical
For someone suffering a cardiac arrest, every minute that passes without defibrillation decreases their chances of survival by 10%. This means that having a defibrillator readily available can make a huge difference.
2. Defibrillators Are Easy to Use
Contrary to popular belief, defibrillators are very easy to use. Modern devices are designed to be used by laypeople, with clear instructions provided. With minimal training, anyone can be confident in using a defibrillator.
3. Defibrillators Can Save Lives
The most important reason to have a workplace defibrillator is that it can save lives. In many cases, a defibrillator is the only thing that can restart the heart and prevent death.
While there are a number of reasons why workplace defibrillators should be mandatory in Australia, the most important is that they can save lives. With early defibrillation critical for survival, workplaces must have a defibrillator readily available.
Why Most Workplaces Do Not Use Defibrillators
The Australian Resuscitation Council recommends that all workplaces have a defibrillator on site, and yet so many do not.
Despite the fact that defibrillation is a highly effective treatment for SCA, its use is still relatively uncommon in public places. This is partly due to a lack of awareness of the importance of having a defibrillator on hand and partly due to the cost of purchasing one.
In many cases, it comes down to cost. The cost of a defibrillator can range from $1,500 to $3,000, but when you consider the cost of even one life lost, the price tag is a small price to pay.
The cost of not having a defibrillator can be far greater. The financial cost of SCA in Australia is estimated to be around $1.2 billion per year, while the human cost is incalculable. In addition, the publicity surrounding workplace death can be devastating for a business.
Conclusion
A workplace defibrillator is a vital piece of equipment that can save lives. Having a defibrillator readily available could mean the difference between life and death for someone who suffers from SCA. In a workplace emergency, every second counts, and having a defibrillator close at hand can make all the difference.
At Restart The Heart, we provide defibrillator supplies and training to help you and your employees be prepared in the event of a cardiac emergency. Don't wait until it's too late. Let us give you and your employees the peace of mind that comes with knowing you're prepared for anything. Invest in a defibrillator today!