Defibrillators in the Workplace: Why They Should Be as Common as Fire Extinguishers and Exits

When we think of essential safety equipment in the workplace, fire extinguishers and emergency exits are usually at the top of the list. They’re visible, accessible, and well understood by employees. But what about defibrillators? Defibrillators in the workplace are just as vital when it comes to saving lives, and they should be just as common in workplaces as fire extinguishers and exits.

A Solution to Sudden Cardiac Arrest

Every year in the UK, thousands of people suffer sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). This can happen to anyone, at any time, and without warning. Shockingly, many of these incidents occur in workplaces. Unlike a fire, which may give some warning signs like smoke or alarms, SCA can be immediate and without any prior symptoms. In these cases, every second counts. Without intervention, the chances of survival decrease by 10% for every minute that passes. This is where having defibrillators in the workplace becomes essential.

Just as fire extinguishers provide an immediate response before emergency services arrive, defibrillators offer immediate life saving potential for someone experiencing cardiac arrest. Both are equally important in keeping people safe, yet defibrillators are far less common.

Fire Extinguishers, Exits, and Defibrillators in the Workplace: Equally Essential

We have fire extinguishers for fire prevention and emergency exits for quick evacuations, but what do we have in place for sudden cardiac arrest? In an ideal world, defibrillators in the workplace should be as common as these other safety tools. Every workplace has a responsibility to protect its employees, visitors, and customers. This does not just mean complying with fire safety regulations, it means preparing for all emergencies.

A defibrillator is designed to be simple and user friendly, with most units giving clear voice prompts to guide the user. Even without medical training, anyone can use a defibrillator to help save a life. So, why are they not everywhere? The truth is, cardiac arrest is just as life threatening as a fire. Both require immediate action, and both deserve equal attention in workplace safety planning.

Why Defibrillators Should  Be in the Workplace

While fire extinguishers and exits are mandatory by law, defibrillators are not. This is surprising, given that sudden cardiac arrest kills far more people each year than fires. It is time for this to change. Every workplace should consider installing a defibrillator as standard practice. Not only does it protect employees, but it also shows a commitment to public safety.

At Defib Supplies, we believe defibrillators should be as visible and accessible as fire extinguishers. Whether in an office, a school, or a warehouse, having an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) on site ensures you are prepared for any emergency.

Immediate Action Saves Lives with Defibrillators in the Workplace

In the event of a fire, nobody waits around for the fire brigade. They grab the nearest fire extinguisher and act quickly to control the situation. The same approach should apply to sudden cardiac arrest. Waiting for paramedics could be fatal. Defibrillators provide the immediate treatment necessary while emergency services are on their way, greatly improving the chances of survival.

And if you are wondering where to place one, think about putting it near the boardroom—that is where most heart stopping decisions tend to happen anyway!

Taking Workplace Safety Further with Defibrillators

We would not consider a workplace safe if it lacked fire extinguishers or exits, so why should we accept one without defibrillators? The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) mandates that all workplaces must have sufficient fire safety measures, such as exits and extinguishers, to protect employees in case of an emergency. Yet, no similar legislation requires workplaces to have defibrillators on site, despite their proven ability to save lives.

Businesses that invest in defibrillators in the workplace are going above and beyond current regulations to ensure the safety and wellbeing of their staff. The NHS offers resources and guidelines that highlight how important immediate action is when someone experiences a cardiac arrest.

Be Ready for An Emergency

Every business is different, but emergencies are universal. Whether it is a fire or a cardiac event, being prepared can save lives. Installing defibrillators in key locations, such as near exits or in high traffic areas like reception desks, ensures that help is always close at hand. Plus, making them as standard as fire extinguishers demonstrates a proactive, safety conscious approach.

At Defib Supplies, we offer a range of defibrillators designed for easy use in any workplace setting. Our products are reliable, affordable, and meet the highest safety standards. We also provide defibrillator cabinets to keep your AED visible and secure, ensuring it is always ready for use.

Fires and cardiac arrests are both unpredictable, but one thing is certain: preparedness can save lives. Every workplace has fire extinguishers and emergency exits—defibrillators should be just as common. With the right equipment in place, you can protect your team from all types of emergencies, not just fires.

In conclusion, defibrillators in the workplace are just as vital as fire extinguishers and emergency exits. Do not wait for a life threatening event to realise the importance of this equipment. Make sure your workplace is ready for any emergency by investing in a defibrillator today.