AEDs In The Workplace: Commonly Asked Questions & Answers

The number of AEDs you need depends on the size of your facility and the number of employees. For smaller offices, a single defibrillator might be sufficient, while larger industrial sites will require many units strategically placed. Safety guidelines suggest that an AED should be accessible within a three-minute round-trip of any point in the facility.

If a victim is shocked within a minute of suffering a cardiac arrest, they statistically have a 90% chance of survival. For every minute that passes without an AED shock, their expected survival rate drops by 10%.

Good general rules for AED placement in your building:

• At least 1 AED per flight of stairs
• Each AED has an Optimal Impact Zone approximately in a 1.5 minute radius. (The farther you space your AEDs, the lower the chances of survival)
• Consider high-traffic areas, where access might be easy, but crowds may slow response time (major hallways, lobbies, etc.)
• Consider placing more AEDs near areas of high risk for cardiac events: Gyms, high-temperature areas, places with physical labor, outdoor construction, exercise facility, etc.
• Conduct a risk assessment to determine high-traffic areas and potential high-risk zones. For example, if you operate an Industrial AED program in a factory or construction site, additional units near workstations or common areas might be necessary.

Q: What’re Best Practices for Maintaining AEDs in the Workplace?

Maintenance is key to ensuring that your AED remains operational when needed. Regularly check:

• AED battery life
• Electrode pad expiration
• The device’s automated self-check status

Devices like the Zoll AED Plus and the Cardiac Science PowerHeart G5 AED both include automatic self-testing, which simplifies maintenance and lets you know when there’s a potential device issue.

Document all maintenance activities in a log for best practices as part of your Emergency Response Plan. This log can also serve as proof of compliance with safety regulations, such as OSHA AED in workplace requirements.

Q: What Training does my team need for using an AED in a Commercial Setting?

Employee training is essential for effective AED deployment during an emergency. Training programs should cover basic CardioPulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), AED operation, and emergency response procedures. Certain distributors, like Master Medical Equipment, offer remote training or will partner you with a local CPR instructor to get your staff certified and confident.

Plan for regular refresher courses, to train new staff and to remind the team of your emergency protocols. Make sure training includes information on where the devices are located within your facility.

51% of all workplace employees don’t know where their facility’s AED is located!!!

Q: How Do I Integrate AEDs Into Our Emergency Response Plans?

Integrating AEDs into your emergency response plan is not hard or difficult. Update your emergency response protocols to include the use of AEDs and make sure employees are aware of the locations and operational procedures. Identify key locations within your facility where AEDs should be placed, such as in high-traffic areas and easy access points.

A well-documented emergency response plan should outline roles and responsibilities during a cardiac emergency. This plan should also be reviewed and practiced regularly in drills.

Q: Are AEDs Compliant With OSHA Standards for Workplace Safety?

Yes, modern AEDs, such as the Zoll AED Plus, meet and often exceed OSHA guidelines for workplace safety. OSHA recommends that AEDs be readily accessible and well-maintained in environments where there is a higher risk of cardiac emergencies. These devices should be part of your overall strategy to improve workplace safety and reduce liability.

Q: What Are the Key Features of an Office AED and How Do I Choose the Best AED for Office Use?

An Office AED should be user-friendly, reliable, and require minimal training. We recommend the Zoll AED Plus, as it’s considered the best AED for office use due to its intuitive interface and clear, guided instructions.

Additional features to consider include automatic self-testing, clear status indicators, and durable construction. These features ensure the device remains operational with minimal maintenance.

Q: What Are the Considerations for Installing an AED for a Construction Site?

Construction sites present unique challenges that demand robust and reliable AEDs. An AED for construction site use must be rugged, dust-resistant, and water-resistant, and a high IP rating.

When installing an AED at a construction site, consider placing it in a secure yet accessible location. Ensure that all workers are trained in its use and that emergency response plans are updated accordingly.

Q: How Do AEDs Benefit Industrial Settings and Commercial Facilities?

AEDs offer significant benefits in industrial settings and commercial facilities by improving overall safety and reducing your potential liability. They offer a critical safety net which can save lives during cardiac emergencies.

An Industrial AED like the Zoll AED Plus keeps your facility prepared for unexpected emergencies. It supports your overall safety strategy by complementing other emergency response measures you’ve already invested in.

Q: How Do I Decide Between Different AED Models When Choosing an AED for Commercial Needs?

Deciding between different AED models requires careful consideration of several factors, including ease of use, durability, and cost of ownership. We recommend two models:

• The Zoll AED Plus AED stands out for its Real-CPR Help, audioprompts, intuitive operation, reliability and familiarity, user-friendly guidance, and cost of ownership
• Cardiac Science PowerHeart G5 AED offers advanced features like smart shock customization and dual-language prompts, and USB data export.

Q: What Financial Benefits Can You Expect From Installing AEDs in the Workplace?

Investing in AEDs in the workplace provides financial benefits beyond the obvious health and safety advantages. By reducing the risk of death from severe cardiac events and improving emergency response times, many organizations lower their liability insurance premiums.
Organizations that purchase an AED for their workplace can also expect improved employee and visitor morale, increased comfort and security at work, and an increased sense of preparedness for emergency situations. Investing in a high-quality AED like the Zoll AED Plus means you’re safeguarding your most valuable asset—your people.

Q: How Should I Purchase an AED for Workplace Use?

Purchasing an AED for workplace use is a straightforward process when you work with a trusted distributor. Devices like the Zoll AED Plus and the Cardiac Science PowerHeart G5 AED, both designed for industrial environments. We work with thousands of businesses every year, guiding you through flexible and affordable options, including financing, trade-ins, bulk discounts, or short-term rentals. With our extensive expertise, we pair you with the best AED for workplaces or the Ideal AED for commercial environments. Contact our sales team to receive personalized advice and to request a demo.

Conclusion

AEDs in the workplace are not merely regulatory tools—they are life-saving investments that make a real difference. Whether you need an Office AED, an AED for construction site use, or an Industrial AED for a manufacturing facility, choosing the right device is crucial.

From small offices to large industrial complexes, these devices meet the demands of modern safety protocols while complying with OSHA AED in workplace standards.

The Zoll AED Plus and the Cardiac Science PowerHeart G5 AED stand out as two of the best choices for workplace safety. They provide clear, guided instructions and robust features designed specifically for industrial environments. When you purchase an AED for workplace use, you’re not only proactively protecting lives—you’re investing in a safer, more resilient work environment.

Our expert team is ready to guide you through the process of installation, maintenance, and training, ensuring that your investment in workplace safety yields lasting benefits.
Thank you for reading our comprehensive Q&A guide. For more information, to schedule a demo, or to get a personalized consultation, please contact us today. Your commitment to workplace safety begins with the right AED solution—choose Master Medical Equipment for trusted, expert support in every emergency.