Is your office prepared if someone suddenly suffers from cardiac arrest? Each year, over 250,000 Americans die from this unexpected heart condition, which can affect anyone, regardless of age, body type, or race, at any time. Although certain risk factors like poor diet, smoking, high blood pressure, and family history can increase the likelihood, they’re not definitive indicators of who will be next.
Given that the office is where many people spend most of their time during the week, having automated external defibrillators (AEDs) available is essential in case someone suffers a sudden cardiac arrest. But having AEDs isn’t enough—training and educating employees for such emergencies is crucial too.
Here’s a plan every office should follow to be ready to help save a life, whether at work or elsewhere:
1. **Choose a Program Leader** – Assign a specific person to oversee the AED maintenance and education program. This person will keep track of device expiration dates and organize training materials for employees.
2. **Determine the Number of Devices Needed** – Assess your office space to ensure you have enough AEDs. Generally, there should be an AED reachable within three minutes from any location in the building. The program leader should evaluate to see if additional devices are necessary.
3. **Develop a Communication Plan** – In an emergency, it’s vital for everyone to act quickly. A clear communication plan ensures that everyone knows what to do and can work together efficiently to help save a life.
4. **Create Awareness Materials and Hold Training** – Educate your employees on what to do in an emergency, including how to use the AEDs and where they are located. Regular training sessions can greatly improve the chances of saving a life.
Offices are places where people spend a significant part of their daily lives. Having the right emergency equipment and training can make a critical difference. Follow these tips to enhance the safety of your workplace and improve the chances of survival in case of sudden cardiac arrest.