When someone experiences a cardiac episode in the workplace, it can be frightening for the individual and everyone around. Sudden cardiac arrest happens without warning and it is essential to help the individual as quickly as possible. It is important to have an AED in the workplace since SCA can happen to anyone at any time.
What is a sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) and what to do when someone goes into SCA?
Sudden cardiac arrest happens when an electrical disturbance suddenly stops the heart from pumping blood throughout the body. Death can occur in minutes if the individual does not receive help.
When an individual experiences SCA, it is essential to help or get help immediately. Call 911, find and use an AED, check their breathing and pulse, and administer CPR until EMS arrives.
Who can use an AED? Do you have to be trained?
The short answer is anyone can use an AED. While it is recommended that someone with AED training help the patient (they have had practice and may be more comfortable), anyone nearby can use the AED. An AED is a safe medical device that will guide you through the rescue process as soon as you turn it on. Simply follow the voice commands and graphic prompts to safely administer life-saving first aid.
It is recommended that everyone in the office receive first aid training so that each person can confidently address an emergency. AED training is a required component in most first aid courses.
First Edition First Aid offers first aid training for all levels, including company onsite first aid training. This makes it easy for you and your staff to get emergency first aid and standard first aid training at your own location. Our Red Cross trained instructors will bring everything needed to teach the course in a fun and professional way, all you have to do is provide the space.
AEDs in the Workplace
AEDs save lives and it is important to have one in your office or workplace. With access to the right equipment, you can make a life-changing difference in the lives of many. 
Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) in Alberta support the use of AEDs in the workplace. Employers should ensure that AEDs are integrated into first aid programs and training to enhance workplace safety. Employers are required to do what is necessary to ensure the health and safety of workers and patrons on or near their worksite.
According to OHS, an employer is required to perform a hazard assessment for the workplace to identify its specific needs. This includes whether an AED can be used safely or not, are the employees and patrons at a higher risk of SCA in the workplace, the current emergency response plan, and EMS availability.
The Best AED for a Workplace
An employer should consider which AED to use in their workplace and the level of training required for their employees. It is important that employers and employees follow the manufacturer’s care, use, and maintenance instructions to ensure that the AED stays up to date. Regular maintenance and inspection are required. 
All Philips AEDs use voice and visual commands to guide a user through a rescue. It is essential to ensure that all employees know where the AED is stored, and it should be stored in a secure, visible, and accessible location. Make sure there is visible signage notifying the location of the AED and that it is close to a phone, 911 alarm, or mobile device. It should be easy to find and accessible by anyone in an emergency. We sell many different alarmed cabinets, signs, and wall mounts for secure storage and visibility.
The Philips HeartStart OnSite AED is recommended for most office environments.
If your office is a work truck or a remote location such as an oil field or construction zone, the more rugged Philips Heartstart FRx AED is recommended.
AEDs are important to have in the workplace because you see many different types of people coming into your business. AEDs can double everyone’s chance of survival and should be used within three minutes of a SCA episode.
