Is your defibrillator in optimum working order?
Making sure your Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is in optimum working order takes just a few minutes, but could make a world of difference. A regular check-up each month means that you’ll be confident and prepared to act in an emergency. So whether you’re part of a local footy team, workplace or community organisation, making sure your defibrillator is well maintained and in working order is essential.
Keep your community safe and feel confident to act should an emergency arise with these three tips on keeping your defibrillator in optimum working order:
1. Check the battery
Most defibrillators do come with a handy status indicator or a self-check feature that lets you know when the battery is running low, but it’s always good to stay one step ahead. Defibrillator batteries do have an expiry date, so make sure you’re aware of when your batteries are expiring so you can have a fresh one ready to go. Regular checks will make sure your battery as well as everything else is in working order.
2. Check your pads expiration date
Automated External Defibrillator pads are what deliver the life-saving shock to the heart, but like most things, they don’t last forever. Over time the adhesive can lose its stickiness and the pads can wear out. This is why it’s a good idea to make sure you know the pads expiry date so you can replace them before they expire. They’ll come in a sealed package, but it’s a good idea to give the packaging a quick once-over for any signs of damage. Having fresh, fully functional pads ensures your defibrillator can work effectively if an emergency arises.
3. Perform regular checks
Most defibrillators are designed with automatic self-tests to ensure the device is functioning properly. These tests are run on a set schedule, and there will usually be an indicator or light that tells you everything is in good working order. Alternatively, there will be a beeping alarm that lets you know if something needs attention. It’s good practice to check your device on a monthly basis. All you need to do is open it up or switch it on and make sure it starts talking to you without any warnings. Keep an eye out for error messages or alerts that might pop up, letting you know if something needs special attention. It’s also good to take a moment to give your defibrillator a quick once-over. Wipe down the outer case to keep it clean and dust-free, and inspect it for any signs of wear or damage. Make sure all the cables and connectors are secure and in good condition.
TIP: Most workplaces will have a safety inspection checklist. Consider adding a defibrillator check to yours.
DID YOU KNOW: While all defibrillators will usually be okay in an indoor environment, if your defibrillator is located outdoors or in other environments where it may be exposed to dust or moisture there are some defibrillators designed to protect against these environmental factors. Give St John WA a call at 93341222 to learn more about the different kinds of defibrillators on offer.
4. Know where to locate your defibrillator
The best maintained defibrillator in the world is still of no use if it isn’t used in an emergency. Make sure everyone in your organisation knows where to find the defibrillator if it’s needed. AEDs are designed for people to use with no training at all. The device will talk you through exactly what to do as soon as you turn it on. They will not deliver a shock if it’s not needed, so you can’t hurt somebody with it. But if your colleagues have inspected the defibrillator and know where it’s located, they will be more confident if an emergency arises.
DID YOU KNOW: In a cardiac arrest, the most important first step is to call Triple Zero (000). The operator on the emergency call will guide you through everything else you need to do such as CPR and using a defibrillator while the ambulance is on the way.
TIP: St John WA provide free online first aid courses so you can learn what to do in an emergency.
5. Make sure your defibrillator is registered
St John WA operates the State Defibrillator Network with over 10,000 defibrillators registered in Western Australia. In case of a cardiac arrest, the Triple Zero operator can direct a caller to a registered AED so a lifesaving shock can be delivered in the vital first minutes of a cardiac arrest. Registering your device and making it available to the community means you can play a part in saving a life.
DID YOU KNOW: If your AED is registered and is used in an emergency, St John WA will replace your pads and any other consumables free of charge through the Community First Responder Program.
To learn more about maintaining and servicing your defibrillator, contact the St John WA team on firstaid@stjohnwa.com.au or give us a call at 93341222. If you’re interested in purchasing a defibrillator, you can shop the Shocktober sale until the 31st of October 2024.
