Presented by Cardio Partners

Each year, 430,000 sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) events occur outside of the hospital. The survival of SCA victims largely depends on the ability of bystanders to perform CPR and use an AED. While the average survival rate is about 7%, early defibrillation can boost it to 38%. Those are chances worth taking.

The problem is many workplaces lack proper SCA training—only half of employees know where the nearest AED is located, if there even is one.

Immediate Response Saves Lives – 4 Ways to prepare your workplace for cardiac emergencies

1. Promote CPR and AED Certification

Proper training in CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) and AED (Automated External Defibrillator) can make a life-saving difference. CPR maintains blood flow to vital organs, while an AED can restore normal heart rhythm. Encourage colleagues to get certified, so they can act swiftly in emergencies, potentially saving lives and improving workplace safety.

2. Recognize the Signs

Sudden cardiac arrest often happens without warning. Knowing the signs—such as heart palpitations, chest pain, collapse, no pulse, no breathing, and loss of consciousness—enables quicker, more effective action. Educate your team on these signs and ensure they are prepared to act. Encourage bystander response no matter the victim: women and young children often receive less bystander care.

3. Evaluate AED Placement

If you have an AED, regularly review AED locations in your workplace. Ensure they are accessible, clearly marked, and easily reachable within a three-minute window. Place AEDs in high-traffic areas like elevators, stairways, cafeterias, and reception desks. Add clear signage and consider engaging employees with activities to familiarize them with AED locations. Review where the AED is located during town halls, monthly meetings, or other team gatherings.

4. Ensure AED Readiness

Regularly check AEDs to ensure they are operational. Assign someone to monitor each unit’s condition, including electrode pads and battery life. Replace pads every 18-30 months and batteries every 2-5 years. For AEDs like ZOLL® models, pads last up to 5 years and batteries up to 7 years, providng a generally lower total cost of ownership over the warranty period of the AED. Consider AED management software for tracking maintenance and evaluate your AED provider to ensure simplicity and support.

Take Action Today for a Safer Tomorrow

Proactive preparation for sudden cardiac arrest can improve survival rates and enhance workplace safety. By implementing training, maintaining accessible AEDs, and fostering readiness, you can make a significant impact. The actions you take today could save a life tomorrow.

Let’s make our workplaces heart-safe and ready for any cardiac emergency.