AEDs in Warehouses and Large Facilities: A Cost-Benefit Analysis

Warehouses and other large workplace facilities can be a challenge to safeguard from accidents. It takes significant effort and investment to create a safe environment for your employees, and certain safety equipment doesn’t show a tangible benefit to employers and employees. In most facilities, Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) spend most of their lives in their cases on the wall, but the benefits and peace of mind they provide employees are priceless.

Benefits of AEDs

Life-Saving Potential

Every factory, warehouse, office, plant, or industry center’s workforce includes workers who suffer from heart disease. Cardiovascular disease is so prevalent in America that it’s been identified as a public health crisis. The American Heart Association reported more than 356,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests annually in the U.S., nearly 90% of them fatal (source). Every day, nearly one thousand American workers experience this life-threatening medical emergency.

Immediate use of an AED can increase survival rates from sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) by up to 70% if used within the first few minutes of collapse. Without an AED, survival rates can be as low as 5-10% (source). In factories, large warehouses, high-traffic areas or large workplaces, quick access to an AED can be the difference between death and a full recovery.

Industry Mandated Requirements

Many industry regulations and standards, such as those set by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and other regulatory bodies, mandate that workplaces have access to emergency medical equipment. Compliance with these regulations prevents businesses from encountering fines and legal issues.

Ease of Use

AEDs are designed for ease of use with clear voice or visual prompts guiding the rescuer through the life-saving process. This means that with a little training, anyone can use an AED, not just medical professionals.

Low Risk

Modern AEDs come with advanced safety features that minimize the risk of misuse. They perform automatic self-tests and have built-in mechanisms to ensure shocks are delivered only when necessary.

Costs Associated with AEDs

Training and Education

Training staff to use the AED properly can require a small investment of time and resources. Partner with a certified local trainer, or contact your Fire Department, to provide ongoing training sessions, which can cost between $50-$200 per employee or $500-$1,500 for group sessions. Regular refresher courses or drills may be necessary to ensure staff remain proficient, potentially adding to long-term costs.

Up-front Costs

AEDs typically cost between $1,200 and $2,200, depending on the model and features. Check out our Industrial AED Purchasing guide here. We also offer recertified (pre-owned) AEDs here. Price varies based on factors such as brand, condition, and specific features. Additional costs to consider include AED accessories such as carrying cases, wall mounts, and extra sets of pads.

Maintenance Requirements

AED batteries usually need replacement every 2-5 years. Regular checks are necessary to ensure the device is ready for use. Electrodes or pads should be replaced every 2-5 years or after each use. Periodic self-tests and inspections are required to ensure the device is functioning properly, which can involve minor costs or time investment.

Potential Cost Savings

Avoiding Workplace Incidents

Quick treatment with an AED can prevent long-term medical expenses associated with severe cardiac events. The cost of emergency medical care and ongoing treatment can be substantial, often tens of thousands of dollars. Improving workplace safety can potentially lower insurance premiums due to reduced risk profiles and fewer claims.

Reducing Legal and Compliance Costs

Compliance with safety regulations helps avoid fines and legal penalties associated with non-compliance. This can save significant amounts in potential legal costs.

Productivity and Morale

Having AEDs visible and available can improve employee confidence in workplace safety, potentially reducing stress and increasing productivity. Employees stick around when companies commit to creating a safe working environment.
Putting your employees first enhances their satisfaction and retention, reducing turnover and associated costs.

Investing in AEDs entails upfront costs and ongoing maintenance, but the potential savings and benefits can outweigh these expenses. The life-saving potential of AEDs, compliance with industry regulations, ease of use, and low risk contribute significantly to workplace safety. The costs of training, purchase, and maintenance are balanced by the substantial savings from preventing workplace incidents, reducing insurance premiums, avoiding legal issues, and improving overall employee well-being.