Creating a Heart-Safe Workplace: Essential Steps for Businesses Implementing AED Programs
Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) can strike anyone, anywhere, and at any time, making it a critical concern for workplace safety. According to the Australian Heart Foundation, approximately 30,000 Australians suffer from an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest each year, with the survival rate being around 10%. As a business owner or workplace safety officer, creating a heart-safe workplace not only protects the well-being of employees and visitors but it also demonstrates your organisation's commitment to taking all necessary measures to address the risks associated with SCA.
In this blog, we will provide a comprehensive guide for businesses on how to implement an effective automated external defibrillator (AED) program, a crucial step in creating a heart-safe workplace. We will discuss the key aspects of an AED program, from purchasing an appropriate AED, ensuring proper placement and signage, providing comprehensive AED training for employees, and the necessity of ongoing maintenance and support.
Creating a heart-safe workplace is a responsibility that should not be taken lightly. By investing in an AED program and following proper implementation guidelines, businesses have the power to save lives, reduce risks, and foster a culture of safety and preparedness. Furthermore, we will showcase Restart the Heart's expert services as a trusted partner for businesses looking to establish an AED program that meets industry standards and offers peace of mind to employees and visitors alike.
Purchasing an AED
Selecting the Right Device for Your Workplace
One crucial step in creating a heart-safe workplace is selecting an AED suitable for your business. While numerous devices are available on the market, it is essential to consider certain factors when choosing the right AED:
- Ease of use: Look for an AED that is user-friendly, with simple, clear instructions and audiovisual prompts. Ensure that even untrained employees can operate the device in an emergency.
- Compatibility with emergency services: Ensure the AED you choose is compatible with local emergency services, such as compatibility with the defibrillators used by ambulance paramedics, which can provide a seamless handover during a cardiac emergency.
- Reliability: Opt for devices from trusted manufacturers known for their high-quality products and a reputation for reliability.
By considering these factors, businesses can select an AED suitable for their workplace and cater to the unique needs of their employees and visitors.
AED Placement and Signage
Ensuring Easy Access and Maximum Visibility
Proper AED placement and signage are critical to ensure quick access and visibility during an emergency. Adhering to industry guidelines for AED placement, businesses can optimise their AED program's effectiveness:
- Central location: Place the AED in an easily accessible, central location to minimise the time it takes to retrieve the device during an SCA event. Ideally, it should be accessible within 90 seconds from any point within the facility.
- Unobstructed access: Ensure the AED is free from obstacles and that its storage location is not locked, allowing prompt access during emergencies.
- Visible signage: Use clear and visible signage that follows industry standards, enabling anyone in the immediate vicinity to quickly locate and access the AED.
By following these guidelines, businesses enhance the effectiveness of their AED program, maximising the chances of a successful intervention during a cardiac arrest.
AED Training for Employees
Empowering Staff with Essential Life-Saving Skills
Providing comprehensive AED training for employees is another pivotal aspect of establishing a heart-safe workplace, as trained personnel can increase the chances of a successful outcome during an SCA event. When implementing an AED training program, businesses should:
- Engage a reliable training provider: Partner with a reputable training provider that offers updated, comprehensive, and certified AED training programs.
- Train a diverse group of employees: Ensure that a mix of employees across different departments and shifts receive AED training, increasing the chances of having trained personnel available during emergencies.
- Schedule regular training sessions: Implement ongoing training sessions to refresh employees' skills, knowledge, and confidence in using AEDs and performing CPR. It is advisable to conduct refresher training at least once every two years.
By investing in employee training and education, businesses equip their staff with essential life-saving skills whilst fostering a culture of safety and preparedness.
Ongoing Maintenance and Support
Partnering with Restart the Heart for Expert Assistance
Ensuring that your AEDs are properly maintained and inspected is a crucial element in guaranteeing their reliability during an SCA event. Partnering with a trusted expert can provide businesses with ongoing maintenance and support:
- Customised maintenance plans: Collaborate with our professionals to develop tailored maintenance strategies that adhere to industry guidelines and manufacturer recommendations.
- Regular inspections and maintenance: Our team will perform routine inspections and maintenance, such as battery life assessment, electrode pad replacement, software updates, and visual inspections.
- Remote monitoring: For compatible AEDs, we offer remote monitoring, enabling early detection of potential issues and prompt resolution, ensuring the device's readiness during an emergency.
Conclusion
Implementing an effective AED program is critical in creating a heart-safe workplace, providing businesses with the necessary tools and resources to address the risks of sudden cardiac arrest. By selecting the right AED, ensuring proper placement and signage, providing comprehensive training for employees, and engaging in ongoing maintenance and support, businesses can protect the well-being of their staff and visitors while demonstrating a genuine commitment to safety and preparedness.
Partnering with Restart the Heart for your AED program needs can further enhance your organisation's heart-safe environment with expert guidance, reliable products, and top-notch services. Take the necessary steps to create a heart-safe workplace, knowing that you are contributing to the safety and well-being of all who enter your facility. Visit our AED supply store today.