Thinking About An AED Program
An AED site assessment provides a rational process for determining the optimal number of AEDs and most favorable location(s) for these AEDs. These assessments should always be performed prior to selecting an AED and implementing a program.
The number and placement of the AEDs directly impacts response times.
Considerations for AED placement includes; square footage of facility, number of floors/buildings within a facility, access between floors (stairs/elevators), high population areas, site hazards, ease of access, response impediments, communication systems and the number of employees and visitors to your facility.
To achieve adequate response times as well as increase survival rates, AEDs must be readily available, easily accessible, clearly visible; and your staff must know the plan for 9-1-1 activation, the internal response plan and your facility should have an adequate amount of trained responders. All of these components will greatly impact the effectiveness of an AED program.
These components will greatly impact the effectiveness of an AED program:
- Easy access - Placed at a height so that all individuals can reach, remove without any unobstructed access. Site should also be accessible during all shifts and hours of operation.
- Secure location - location that prevents or minimizes the potential for tampering, theft and/or misuse.
- High Visibility - Well marked, publicized and well known among employees.
- Communication - A nearby telephone that can be used to call 911, security,
EMS and/or to be used as a back-up resource. - Protocols - Clear and precise procedures for activating 911, location of AEDs,
utilizing the AED, responding to a victim, scene management once EMS arrives,
downloading of data, cleaning and restoring of all equipment including AED. - Education - Providing information about your AED program and location of units to all employees.
The clock is ticking...Every minute counts! Contact us to schedule a free AED site Assessment.