Reducing Workplace Cardiac Fatalities: A Vital Responsibility for Employers
Learn how to reduce workplace cardiac fatalities with AEDs, training, and emergency planning. Create a heart-safe environment for your team.
Workplace safety is essential, yet many organisations overlook an important aspect—heart health. Cardiac arrests can strike without warning, and immediate action is crucial. In the UK, over 30,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests occur each year. Without the right equipment and training on-site, lives could be at risk. In this blog, we’ll discuss how to prepare for cardiac emergencies in the workplace and outline steps employers can take toward reducing workplace cardiac fatalities.
Understanding Cardiac Arrests in the Workplace
Cardiac arrest happens when the heart suddenly stops pumping blood effectively, causing a person to lose consciousness and stop breathing. It can affect anyone, regardless of age or health. Immediate defibrillation and CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) are essential for restarting the heart and maintaining brain function. Each minute without defibrillation reduces a person’s chance of survival by 10%.
In a workplace setting, employees may be at risk of cardiac events due to stress, pre-existing health conditions, or physical activity. Employers must provide a safe working environment, which includes being ready for medical emergencies like cardiac arrests. By taking proactive steps, companies can focus on reducing workplace cardiac fatalities and ensuring employee safety.
How to Reduce Cardiac Fatalities at Work
1. Install AEDs in the Workplace
Automated external defibrillators (AEDs) are the most effective way to lower the risk of cardiac fatalities. These devices analyse the heart’s rhythm and, if needed, deliver a shock to restore a normal heartbeat. By placing AEDs in key locations such as reception areas, break rooms, and near stairwells, you ensure they are easy to access during emergencies. Studies show that survival rates can reach over 70% when an AED is used within the first few minutes of a cardiac arrest.
Visit our Defibrillators for Workplaces page to explore AED options suitable for your business.
2. Provide First Aid Training
Training employees in first aid, including CPR and AED use, is crucial. When employees know how to respond quickly, they can deliver life-saving care before emergency services arrive. Make first aid training part of your company’s health and safety plan. Offer refresher courses each year to ensure skills remain current. Tailored training sessions can also help employees prepare for real-world situations specific to your industry.
For more on the benefits of AED training, visit our courses on AED and CPR training.
3. Encourage a Healthy Lifestyle
Promoting a healthy lifestyle at work can reduce the risk of cardiac events. Encourage employees to stay active, eat healthily, and manage stress. Simple initiatives such as lunchtime walking groups, healthy snacks in the break room, or discounted gym memberships can make a big difference. Creating a culture that supports wellness not only benefits employees but can also improve overall morale and productivity.
4. Develop an Emergency Response Plan
Every workplace needs a clear emergency response plan. Make sure all employees know where AEDs are located, who the trained first aiders are, and what to do during an emergency. Use clear signage to indicate AED locations and display emergency contact numbers prominently. Conduct regular drills so employees understand the procedure, reducing panic during an actual event.
5. Register Your AED with The Circuit
Registering your workplace AED with The Circuit, the national defibrillator network, is crucial. The Circuit connects AEDs with emergency services, helping to direct bystanders to the nearest device during a cardiac emergency. This can be especially important if an incident occurs outside of working hours. By registering your AED, you enhance the safety of your employees and the surrounding community.
For more information on registering your AED, visit The Circuit’s website.
The Importance of AED Preparedness
The cost of an AED is often less than other employee perks, but its value is immeasurable when a life is at stake. Being unprepared for a cardiac emergency can have severe consequences. A quick response is essential, and an AED on-site ensures that help is always nearby.
At Defib Supplies, we offer a range of workplace AEDs that are easy to use and reliable. Our training programmes can also ensure your team knows how to respond in a cardiac emergency. Together, we can make workplaces safer for everyone, focusing on reducing workplace cardiac fatalities.
Final Thoughts: Taking Action Saves Lives
Reducing cardiac fatalities in the workplace requires taking proactive steps. By installing AEDs, providing training, and fostering a culture of health and safety, employers can create a safer environment. This commitment not only meets legal obligations but shows employees that their wellbeing is a priority. Taking action now can make a critical difference when every second counts.
Ready to create a heart-safe workplace?
Explore our range of defibrillators and training services at Defib Supplies and start safeguarding your team today.
