AED Safety & Maintenance
AED Safety and Maintenance
AEDs are designed so that anyone can use them; the unit has a speaker function which tells you how to operate it, so you do not need any previous training.
If you have an AED in your workplace, you should be familiar with its location and operation. It is recommended AED’s are not stored in locked locations to allow access by anyone, at anytime.
AEDs are very safe to use, they will not deliver a shock to a person unless it is needed.
AEDs are designed to require very little maintenance. Batteries and electrodes will usually have a clearly visible expiry date and these should be check routinely. An AED with a low battery or fault will usually give an audible warning.
It is helpful to store an accessory kit with the AED. These kits will typically include:
- Spare AED pads
- Resuscitation face shield
- Razor for shaving chest hair
- Scissors/shears and gloves.
Some AED’s will include Paediatric electrodes designed for use on children under 25kg (approximately 8 years of age).
It is important that everyone knows where the AED is located. The sign below is recommended by the Resuscitation Council (UK) so that everyone uses a standard sign.
You can find the location of your nearest AED by using the website defibfinder.uk.
Using an AED is very simple and safe. There are a small number of safety considerations but do not delay using the AED for fear of doing the wrong thing.
Hazards to consider:
- Water – If a person is in or under water, they need to be removed. The chest area needs to be dry to ensure the pads will stick properly to the chest.
- Pacemakers and Implanted Defibrillators – Someone with an internal device can still be shocked with an AED. You may notice a small bump or scar on the chest. It is important not to place the pads directly over it so put the pad below it or to the side.
- Flammable atmosphere – The AED may create a spark when in use so be aware if medical oxygen is being administered or chemical or petrol fumes are present.
- Medication Patch – examples of these are GTN patches for heart problems or Nicotine patches. If possible, remove any visible ones as a precaution.
- Jewellery – You do not need to remove jewellery, just avoid placing the pads over it.
- Tattoos – Tattoos do not interfere with the AED.
- Underwired bra’s do not interfere with the AED and can be left in place if you do not feel confident in removing.
