Where To Place A Defibrillator

Where To Place A Defibrillator

Where to place a defibrillator for maximum impact and accessibility in public, workplace and community settings to improve survival rates.

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Having a defibrillator nearby can save a life. But simply owning one is not enough. It must be placed in the right location to ensure it can be used quickly in a sudden cardiac arrest. In this guide, we share the most effective locations for placing a defibrillator to improve accessibility and response times in emergency situations.

Why Location Is Crucial for Defibrillators

A defibrillator, also known as an automated external defibrillator or AED, is most effective when used within the first few minutes of a cardiac arrest. Each minute without defibrillation reduces survival chances by about ten percent. That is why placing a defibrillator in an accessible and visible location is essential.

What to Consider Before Choosing a Location

When deciding where to install your defibrillator, take the following into account:

  • Where large numbers of people gather

  • Areas where the risk of cardiac arrest is higher due to physical activity or stress

  • Whether the defibrillator can be accessed at all hours

  • Visibility, with clear signage and no locked access

The best location is one where anyone nearby can reach the device within a few minutes, even without training.

Best Places to Install a Defibrillator

Public Buildings and Community Centres

Community buildings like libraries, town halls and churches are often at the centre of local life. Installing a defibrillator in a main hallway, reception area or entrance ensures that it is visible and reachable in a public emergency.

Find AEDs suitable for community use

Sports Clubs and Leisure Centres

Physical activity, especially high-intensity sport, can increase the risk of sudden cardiac arrest. Football clubs, gyms, swimming pools and leisure centres should all have an AED on site.

The best places for defibrillators in these venues are near entrances, changing rooms or pitch side. Outdoor cabinets may also be needed.

View defibrillators for sports facilities

Offices and Workplaces

Workplace stress is a known factor that can increase the risk of cardiac arrest. Defibrillators in the workplace are especially important in buildings with high footfall or where emergency services may take time to arrive.

Common areas such as reception desks, stairwells or break rooms are good locations. Make sure employees know where to find the device.

Shop workplace AEDs here

Schools and Educational Settings

Cardiac arrest in children is rare but not unheard of. Staff, visitors and older students may also be at risk. That is why every school and college should have a defibrillator.

Place it near the school office, sports hall or main entrance for fast access.

Discover AEDs for schools and colleges

Retail Areas and High Streets

Shopping centres, supermarkets and retail parks are busy areas where cardiac emergencies may happen. Having a public access defibrillator in these settings can save lives.

Install the device near entrances, customer service desks or car parks. Consider a secure cabinet if the location is open after hours.

Explore defibrillator cabinets for public spaces

Travel Hubs and Public Transport

Busy stations, airports and service areas are high risk due to the volume of travellers. Emergency help may be delayed in these areas, so on-site defibrillators are vital.

Install AEDs near ticket barriers, waiting areas or main exits so they are clearly visible to the public.

Rural and Remote Locations

In remote villages, coastal areas or countryside pubs, ambulance response times may be longer. A defibrillator can bridge the gap and buy crucial time.

Outdoor cabinets with lighting and alarms are often used in rural areas to keep the AED safe and accessible.

Event Venues and Attractions

Concert halls, stadiums, theme parks and hotels all welcome large groups of people. In a crowded space, response time is critical.

AEDs should be placed near entrances, security checkpoints and staff-only areas. Staff should also be trained in CPR and AED use.

Under Martyn’s Law, venues with a large capacity will be expected to have emergency planning and trauma equipment in place. Learn more about Martyn’s Law and defibrillators

Register Your Defibrillator

Once installed, make sure your defibrillator is registered with The Circuit, the national defibrillator network. This allows emergency services to direct bystanders to the nearest available device. Registration is free and takes just a few minutes.

Improve Survival Rates in Your Community

Placing a defibrillator in the right location can significantly improve the chances of survival from sudden cardiac arrest. Whether you are responsible for a workplace, community space or public venue, your decision could save a life.

Need help choosing the right defibrillator or cabinet? Speak to our team at Defib Supplies for advice.

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