The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has recently updated its guidance regarding First Aid needs assessments, placing a much stronger emphasis on the consideration of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs).
Why the Change?
Cardiac arrest can happen to anyone, anywhere. Statistics show that using a defibrillator within the first few minutes can significantly increase survival rates (up to 70%). However, for every minute that passes without defibrillation, the chances of survival decrease by 10%.
What Does This Mean for Your Business?
While AEDs are not yet a strict legal mandate for every single workplace, an employer's risk assessment must now explicitly show that they have considered whether an AED is necessary. If you have a high volume of foot traffic, older staff, or conduct high physical exertion tasks, you are strongly expected to invest in one.
How We Can Help
At DSG Training Services, we integrate AED training into our Basic Life Support and standard First Aid courses. We ensure your team isn't just compliant, but genuinely prepared to save a life.