Posted By DaveT I would like to get my company to introduce defibrillators into the workplace. Anybody care to comment on the advantages and disadvantages of doing so, i.e the health and safety implications? Anybody already got them in the workplace? Anybody explored the possibility and decided against and if so why?

Posted By Jerry Sanderson We have introduced them at our workplace. They are very simple to use (obviously with the correct training) and when you see the increased survival chances of someone having a heart attack if early defibrillation is applied they can only be a good thing, particularly if you have an ageing workforce. We have had several staff trained to use them so someone (on a rota basis) always has the defibrillator with them with a pager to ensure a fast response if needed.

Posted By Clairey O There was quite a long thread on defibs earlier this year. try searching the forum.

Posted By Clairey O Morning Dave Sorry my direction to another thread wasn't very helpful. I have worked in a variety of places that do ahve defibs. They were maninly places with a high volume of people movement, or where the likelyhood of someone needing the assistance of from one - think sports centres and the such like. Inital training is normally an add on to a first aid course - normally an additional four hours, but this will vary from course provider to course provider. Most training is certified for a year, but most training providers will ask that you undergo a 6 monthly refresher. Personally, as a community first reponder in our village, i think that anyone having first aid skills is a bonus, as you ahve the potential to save a life. If you are defib trained as well fantastic, they are becoming more and more widespread now. If you need more information email me Claire

Posted By Phil Richards Hi Dave I have recently introduced Defibrillators onto a fleet of vessels which I help manage. The justifaction for the funding centered around an aging workforce working in isolated environment away from the normal emergency services responce. I researched a number of sets and in the end chose the Laerdal Heartstart (Marine version). A one day Training course was in the package and I have had some trainers trained to carry out training oboard each ship. Responce from ships crew has been terrific and the project has been judged a success.