One component of workplace safety that often goes overlooked is the availability and accessibility of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs). These portable, life-saving devices can help individuals experiencing sudden cardiac arrest, a condition where the heart unexpectedly stops beating. AEDs shock the heart with an electrical charge to restore a regular heart rhythm.
Take, for instance, the story of Cheryl Calvert, a patient billing specialist who suffered a sudden cardiac arrest while at work. Thanks to the quick actions of her co-workers and the presence of an AED in the workplace, her life was saved. In the U.S. alone, there are 10,000 cases of SCA in the workplace, and this incident highlights the vital role AEDs can play during this emergency medical situation.
So, what are the benefits of AEDs in the workplace? That’s what we are here to discuss! From providing a lifeline in the initial moments of a cardiac emergency to a safer working environment for all employees, here is why every business should make an AED available in the workplace.
Understanding AEDs and How They Work
An AED checks the heart’s rhythm and shocks it to restore its normal rhythm. These devices are made so that regular people can use them as well. They give clear, straightforward instructions so that even someone with no medical training can use them effectively. The steps to start using one are simple:
- When you power up an AED, it guides you with voice commands and visual cues to place the pads correctly on the person’s chest.
- Once you place the pads, the AED automatically assesses the heart’s rhythm and administers a shock if needed.
- If a shock is necessary, the AED will tell you which button to press to deliver it. It won’t allow you to deliver a shock unless absolutely necessary, so there’s no need to worry about making a mistake.
You might find these devices mounted on walls in public places like airports, shopping centers, and gyms, often in bright cabinets marked clearly for easy access. The key here is speed – the sooner you use an AED on someone experiencing cardiac arrest, the better their chances of survival.
When someone’s heart has stopped at the workplace, your actions could lead you to save the co-worker’s life. All you need is the willingness to step up and the ability to follow the AEDs’ simple instructions.
The Advantages of Having AEDs in the Workplace
Having Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in the workplace isn’t just about ticking a box for health and safety compliance – it’s about genuinely safeguarding your team’s well-being. Cardiac emergencies are unexpected, and when they strike, every second counts. Here’s how having these devices in the workplace can help in such emergencies:
Immediate Response to Cardiac Emergencies
AEDs provide critical support needed before emergency services can take over. When someone’s heart stops, each minute that passes decreases their chances of survival by 10%. But with immediate defibrillation, survival rates can see a significant jump. That is because AEDs are made for quick action, guiding even those without medical training through the process with clear, step-by-step instructions.
Creating a Safer Work Environment
The presence of AEDs contributes to a broader culture of safety and care. Knowing that your employer has taken steps to protect you in the worst-case scenario can give you peace of mind. This sense of preparedness and care can boost morale, foster a supportive atmosphere, and enhance productivity. After all, when you feel safe, you’re better positioned to focus on your work and not worry about what-ifs.
Legal and Financial Benefits for Employers
While it’s clear that the primary reason for having AEDs on-site should always be the health and safety of employees, it doesn’t hurt that there are potential legal protections and incentives for businesses that install them. Most U.S. states, including Texas, have Good Samaritan laws that provide certain protections to individuals who assist in an emergency, extending these protections to businesses.
Additionally, having AEDs can be a positive factor in the eyes of insurance companies, which might mean lower insurance premiums. Another thing worth considering is the costs of workplace accidents, including medical emergencies. Beyond the direct medical costs, there’s the impact on insurance, potential litigation, and, not to forget, the effect on team morale and productivity.
Where To Place AEDs in the Workplace
When placing AEDs in the workplace, there are some guidelines you’ll want to follow to ensure you’re setting up your space for the best possible outcome in an emergency. First, the number of AEDs in your workplace depends on the size and layout of your building, but a good rule of thumb is to have at least one AED for every floor or distinct area within your workplace.
You’ll want to put AEDs in highly accessible and visible areas. Think about locations where people gather or pass by frequently, like the:
- Main entrance
- Reception area
- Break rooms
- Conference rooms
- High-traffic hallways
- Recreational areas
Another smart move is to place AEDs near the locations of your workplace’s first aid kits or within areas designated for health and safety equipment. That makes it easier for people to remember where they are in case of an emergency.
If your workplace has specific areas that are more physically demanding or where incidents are more likely to occur, such as a fitness center, make sure an AED is readily available there, too. Lastly, consider adding a sign – clear, visible signs pointing toward the AED locations can save precious seconds, and in a situation where every second counts, this simple step can make a big difference.
AED Maintenance and Employee Training
Keeping your AED in tip-top shape and ensuring your team knows how to use it isn’t as complicated as it might sound. AED maintenance can be effortless as long as you are consistent with it. You want to ensure the device is ready to go in an emergency. That means checking the battery life, ensuring electrodes are in good condition, and verifying that the machine is up to date with any software updates.
Now, about getting your employees up to speed on using an AED, group CPR and AED training classes are an excellent option. These sessions teach the basics of CPR and tell everyone how to confidently use an AED during an emergency. Everyone learns together, creating a supportive environment where questions are encouraged and practice makes perfect. Think of it as a great team-building exercise.
Workplace Safety in San Antonio, TX
When talking about saving lives, especially in the workplace, knowing CPR is vital, but pairing it with AEDs can really up the ante. So, what are the benefits of AEDs in the workplace?
Having an AED on hand can help someone survive a cardiac arrest. AEDs are also meant to be used by people who might not be medical pros. They come with clear instructions, so you can step in and provide the necessary assistance even if you’re a bit nervous. Having these devices around shows your employees and clients that you’re serious about their safety.
If you want to go one step further, invest in CPR and AED training for your employees in San Antonio. Don’t wait – show your commitment to workplace safety today!