Whilst I don't know what type of organisation you work in, you may be able to apply for a public access defib. Have a look at

https://www.bhf.org.uk/heart-health/how-to-save-a-life/defibrillators/applying-for-a-public-access-defibrillator

the website will also give information about the different types and choosing one. Hope this helps.

Originally Posted by: MartyB

I am looking into getting an AED for my workplace but have no idea how to chose one. Of course money is issue so I automatically look at the cheaper models, but is there anything to watch out for if I do get the cheapest options?

Are there likely to be any hidden costs with the cheaper models? I mean how much can an AED vary, I can't see what more you get for your money with the more expensive options.

Any advice on this would be much appreciated.

Hi Marty,

I have recently been involved in a similar scenario with my company and can shed some light on this for you.

When selecting and AED, you will have two options; automatic or semi-automatic models. The main difference being an automatic AED will deliver a shock without any user input/confirmation and semi-automatic AEDs contain a shock button to be pressed by the user in order to deliver the shock. You need to carefully consider what ones are most suitable as both have advantages and disadvantages.

Semi-Automatic AEDs give the user time to ensure nobody is touching the patient at the time of shock and everyone is clear (i.e. nobody is standing on a wet floor near the patient etc) however this leaves an opportunity for user hesitation due to fear of pressing the button. As you can imagine, fully automatic AEDs pose the opposit risks; in that the machine will deliver a shock regardless of if people are clear etc. You will also have to consider training for some employees (typically a 4 hour standalaone course, although AEDs are sometimes included in First Aid at Work/Emergency First Aid at Work training courses). All AEDs are designed to be operated by untrained persons to make them more usable, however someone who has received training may be less hesitant in using the machine or 'waiting on someone else to use it instead'.

As for cost, they are all pretty expensive. However, as Chas has said you may be able to get funding towards the AED if it is made public access. I have only dealt with the Scottish Ambulance Service for this, however you must let them know where the AED is located and when it is available etc. It is also very important that you tell all staff not to hesitate or waste time looking for a manager if a member of the public runs in requesting the AED. If you are housing your AED on a wall outside then please ensure you get a heated and waterproof cabinet to house it in. 

Speaking of cabinets, if the AED is kept within your premises then you should have a cabinet which does not lock. Locks/combinations etc. are used in some public places such as high streets, but they cause unneccesary delays and as you know, delays are the worst possible scenario for treating a Cardiac Arrest. 

The AEDs we purchased cost £795 each and were semi-automatic.

I hope this helps you as it is a subject which needs careful consideration. Regarding the more expensive models, I don't see how they could perform (or shock) better than a cheaper model. The verbal instructions may be clearer on more expensive models however. Also, some models know when you have carried out steps (such as applying pads) in advance and automatically skip the verbal instruction to catch up with you.

Thnaks very much, some great advice there, a few things to ponder. We would not get funding as a private company.

I think a semi-automatic AED will suit us, we have many first aiders present and some have already recieved AED training. Time to search for the best value AED now.

Marty,

Another thing is to consider who could possibly be treated with the AED. For example, if kids visit your workplace then you will have to purchase different pads which are deigned to be used on children. Also ensure you place a razor, wipes and scissors in with the AED for removing clothing and also shaving off hair as pads must make contact with clean skin to be the most effective.

Glad to be of some help. AEDs truly are great things to have in a workplace.

http://www.heartsafe.org.uk/Become-Heartsafe/Business

There is some good information on HeartSafe and costing information...if you contact your local First Responder group they may be able to provide further information or reduction in costing if you are able to put it as a Public Access Defib..