Having first aid equipment available is important, but effective workplace preparedness involves more than keeping a first aid kit in a cupboard.

Employers also need to consider:

• the hazards within the workplace;
• the number and location of people on site;
• how quickly first aid equipment can be reached;
• whether specialist emergency equipment is required;
• how supplies are stored;
• who is responsible for maintaining them; and
• whether arrangements still suit the business as the workplace changes.

Risk Assessment Products supplies a wide range of First Aid & Emergency Response Equipment to help organisations build first aid arrangements around their actual workplace needs.

What Are UK Employers Required to Provide?

Under the Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981, employers must provide adequate and appropriate first aid equipment, facilities and personnel so employees can receive immediate assistance if they are injured or become ill at work.

The appropriate level of provision should come from a first-aid needs assessment.

That assessment should consider factors such as:

• workplace hazards;
• workforce size;
• how employees are distributed around the site;
• lone and remote working;
• shift patterns;
• accident history;
• proximity to emergency medical services;
• separate buildings or work areas;
• people other than employees who may be present.

A small office will therefore usually have very different requirements from a construction site, manufacturing facility or large distribution centre.

How Does BS 8599-1:2019+A1:2026 Affect Workplace First Aid?

The current British Standard is BS 8599-1:2019+A1:2026.

The 2026 amendment expands the scope of BS 8599-1 so that it now covers both:

workplace first aid kit contents

and

the provision of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in the workplace.

The standard can help employers and procurement teams benchmark workplace first aid provision, particularly when choosing first aid kits and reviewing AED arrangements.

However, BS 8599-1 is not legislation.

Employers still need to base their first aid arrangements on the findings of their first-aid needs assessment.

This distinction is important.

A workplace should not simply buy a British Standard kit and assume that every first aid requirement has been covered.

The workplace may also need:

• additional first aid kits;
• trauma or bleed-control equipment;
• eyewash;
• burns supplies;
• defibrillators;
• mobile first aid storage;
• first aid room equipment;
• sharps or infection-control products.

The correct combination depends on the risks and environment.

1. Workplace First Aid Kits - The Starting Point

A suitably stocked and accessible first aid kit remains the foundation of most workplace first aid arrangements.

Different workplaces may need different kit types and quantities.

Risk Assessment Products supplies first aid kits for requirements including:

• general workplace use;
• vehicles;
• catering environments;
• schools and education;
• sports;
• personal and home use;
• specialist workplace applications.

The number of kits also matters.

A single first aid kit may be sufficient in a small workplace, while larger buildings, multiple departments or remote working areas may require several strategically positioned kits.

Browse First Aid Kits

Should You Choose a BS 8599 Workplace First Aid Kit?

A BS 8599-aligned kit can provide a useful recognised specification for workplace first aid supplies.

However, HSE does not require every employer to use a BS 8599 kit.

The most important consideration is that the kit contents are appropriate for the workplace risks identified in the first-aid needs assessment.

For some workplaces, that means starting with a standard kit and adding more specialist equipment.

2. Emergency Response Equipment - Preparing for More Serious Incidents

Some workplaces face situations that go beyond routine cuts, sprains and minor injuries.

Emergency response equipment may help organisations prepare for more serious or unusual incidents.

Depending on the site, this might include equipment for:

• rescue situations;
• larger incidents;
• specialist first-aid response;
• emergency evacuation;
• industrial environments;
• remote working areas.

Construction, utilities, industrial operations and larger facilities should consider the emergency scenarios most relevant to their activities rather than relying solely on standard first aid supplies.

Explore Emergency Response Equipment

3. Bleed Control & Trauma Equipment

Severe bleeding can become life-threatening quickly.

Workplaces involving machinery, sharp tools, manufacturing processes, construction work or significant public footfall may want to consider whether additional trauma equipment is appropriate.

RAP's range includes products such as:

• bleed-control kits;
• Public Access Trauma kits;
• tourniquets;
• trauma dressings;
• trauma storage;
• bleed-control cabinets.

This equipment should supplement wider first aid provision rather than replace it.

Suitable training, emergency procedures and regular equipment checks should also form part of the arrangement.

Browse Bleed Control & Trauma Equipment

4. Eyewash Stations and Emergency Eye Care

Workplaces involving chemicals, dust, debris and other eye hazards may need dedicated emergency eyewash provision.

Potential environments include:

• laboratories;
• workshops;
• manufacturing facilities;
• construction sites;
• engineering departments;
• maintenance areas.

Options may include:

• eyewash bottles;
• wall-mounted stations;
• portable eyewash;
• dedicated emergency eye-treatment points.

The appropriate solution depends on the substances and hazards involved.

For some chemical risks, a plumbed emergency eyewash or shower may be required rather than relying solely on portable bottles.

Browse Eyewash Stations

5. First Aid Cabinets & Storage

Buying the correct first aid equipment is only useful if people can find it quickly.

First aid cabinets and storage can help organisations keep supplies:

• organised;
• protected;
• clearly located;
• easier to inspect;
• ready for use.

Different workplaces may benefit from:

• wall-mounted first aid cabinets;
• metal medical cabinets;
• first aid lockers;
• high-capacity storage;
• workstations;
• mobile first aid storage.

Explore First Aid Cabinets & Storage

Mobile First Aid Storage for Larger Sites

Large workplaces create a particular challenge.

If emergency equipment is located hundreds of metres away from an incident, staff may lose valuable time retrieving it.

Mobile first aid storage can help organisations bring larger quantities of emergency equipment to the casualty rather than relying entirely on fixed storage points.

This can be particularly useful in:

• warehouses;
• construction sites;
• factories;
• educational campuses;
• sports venues;
• large public facilities.

RAP now supplies wheeled first aid response boxes designed for mobile emergency equipment storage.

Browse Mobile First Aid Storage

6. First Aid Stations - Create a Visible Response Point

In busy workplaces, first aid equipment can become difficult to locate if supplies are spread between cupboards or departments.

A dedicated first aid station provides a clearly identifiable response point.

Depending on the configuration, a station may bring together:

• first aid supplies;
• eyewash;
• burns products;
• PPE;
• emergency information.

This can be particularly useful in warehouses, workshops, factories and larger workplaces where visibility matters.

Browse First Aid Stations

7. First Aid Trolleys

Where equipment needs to move regularly between rooms or departments, a first aid trolley can provide a more flexible alternative to fixed storage.

Trolleys can be useful in:

• larger workplaces;
• healthcare environments;
• education;
• industrial premises;
• event facilities.

The advantage is organisation combined with mobility.

Explore First Aid Trolleys

8. Defibrillators and the 2026 British Standard Update

Automated External Defibrillators are now explicitly addressed within BS 8599-1:2019+A1:2026.

That makes AED provision increasingly relevant when organisations review wider workplace first aid arrangements.

There is still no blanket UK legal requirement for every employer to install a defibrillator.

However, employers should consider factors such as:

• site size;
• number of people present;
• workforce age profile;
• distance from emergency medical services;
• accessibility;
• whether an existing AED can be reached quickly enough.

Large or dispersed sites may also need to consider whether one AED provides adequate coverage.

Risk Assessment Products supplies:

• defibrillator machines;
• AED packages;
• cabinets;
• signs;
• replacement pads;
• replacement batteries.

Browse Defibrillators & AEDs

You can also read:

BS 8599-1:2019+A1:2026: What the New Workplace AED Guidance Means

and use our:

Free Defibrillator Site Assessment Form

9. First Aid Room Equipment

Some workplaces may need a dedicated first aid room.

Whether one is appropriate depends on factors such as:

• workforce size;
• workplace hazards;
• site layout;
• incident history;
• first aid demand.

A first aid room may require:

• examination or treatment couches;
• cabinets;
• storage;
• suitable seating;
• waste facilities;
• appropriate signage.

Large industrial workplaces, distribution centres, education settings and higher-risk sites may be more likely to require dedicated treatment facilities.

Browse First Aid Room Equipment

10. Hygiene, Infection Control & Sharps Disposal

First aiders can also face contamination risks when assisting casualties.

Workplaces may therefore need products for:

• bodily fluid spills;
• sharps disposal;
• cleaning;
• waste management;
• PPE;
• infection control.

These products may be particularly relevant in:

• healthcare;
• education;
• leisure facilities;
• public buildings;
• hospitality;

workplaces where sharps or contamination risks exist.

Browse Hygiene, Infection Control & Sharps Disposal

11. Medical Bags & Cases

Not every incident happens next to a first aid cabinet.

Portable medical bags and cases can help responders carry equipment to the casualty while keeping supplies organised.

They can be useful for:

• first responders;
• sports teams;
• mobile workers;
• schools;
• remote sites;
• events;
• larger workplaces.

Different configurations allow organisations to choose storage suited to the amount and type of equipment being carried.

Browse Medical Bags & Cases

12. Workplace Safety Posters & Signs

Emergency equipment needs to be easy to identify.

Clear signage can help people locate:

• first aid kits;
• treatment areas;
• AEDs;
• eyewash;
• emergency equipment.

Posters can also support awareness of first aid procedures and reinforce key workplace safety messages.

Signs and posters should support - not replace - appropriate training and emergency procedures.

Browse Workplace Safety Posters & Signs

How Should You Build a Complete Workplace First Aid System?

The most effective approach is to think about first aid provision as a system, not a shopping list.

A practical review should cover six areas.

1. Equipment

Do the available first aid supplies reflect the hazards identified?

2. Accessibility

Can people reach the necessary equipment quickly?

3. Coverage

Are supplies located across the areas where they are most likely to be needed?

4. Storage

Are products protected, organised and clearly identified?

5. Maintenance

Are contents checked, replenished and replaced before expiry?

6. Training and Responsibility

Do staff know:

• who the first aiders are;
• where equipment is located;
• who is responsible for maintaining it;
• what to do during an emergency?

First Aid Provision for Different Workplace Types

Different environments should not be equipped identically.

Offices

May require:

• workplace first aid kits;
• accessible storage;
• signage;
• AED provision where appropriate.

Warehouses & Distribution Centres

May need:

• multiple first aid kits;
• mobile first aid storage;
• bleed-control equipment;
• eyewash;
• visible response stations;
• AEDs across larger sites.

Construction Sites

May require:

• first aid kits;
• trauma provisions;
• eyewash;
• burns products;
• mobile response equipment;
• AEDs;

changing locations as the project progresses.

Manufacturing & Engineering

May need:

• workplace kits;
• trauma products;
• eyewash;
• burns equipment;
• mobile or fixed first aid stations;

dedicated first aid rooms where assessment identifies the need.

Schools & Education

May benefit from:

• school first aid kits;
• portable response bags;
• first aid cabinets;
• mobile storage;
• sports first aid supplies;
• AEDs.

Public Venues

May need to consider:

• first aid stations;
• trauma provision;
• mobile emergency supplies;
• medical response bags;
• signage;
• publicly accessible AEDs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What first aid equipment does a UK workplace need?

There is no single equipment list suitable for every workplace.

Employers should base first aid provision on a first-aid needs assessment considering workplace hazards, workforce size, layout and other relevant factors.

Does a workplace first aid kit have to comply with BS 8599?

No.

HSE states that employers may refer to BS 8599, but kit contents should ultimately reflect the findings of the first-aid needs assessment.

What changed in BS 8599-1 in 2026?

BS 8599-1:2019+A1:2026 now covers workplace first aid kit contents and workplace AED provision.

Does every workplace need an AED?

There is no general UK legal requirement for every workplace to install an AED.

AED provision should be considered according to the workplace's needs, risks, size and accessibility.

How many first aid kits should a workplace have?

There is no universal number.

Larger, multi-building or dispersed sites may need several kits so equipment remains accessible.

Does a large workplace need mobile first aid storage?

Not automatically, but mobile storage can be useful where fixed equipment would take too long to reach or where emergency supplies need to move between operational areas.

Do workplaces need bleed-control kits?

There is no blanket requirement for every workplace.

They may be appropriate where the first-aid needs assessment identifies a significant risk of serious bleeding or where enhanced emergency preparedness is required.

When is a first aid room required?

The need depends on the size and nature of the workplace and should be determined through the first-aid needs assessment.

Review Your First Aid & Emergency Response Provision

Workplace first aid should not be treated as a one-off purchase.

As organisations grow, move premises, introduce new machinery or change working practices, first aid requirements can also change.

A regular review should ask:

• Are our first aid kits still appropriate?
• Can employees reach them quickly?
• Do we need specialist trauma or eyewash equipment?
• Is our storage suitable?
• Would mobile response equipment improve coverage?
• Do we need an AED or additional AEDs?
• Are all supplies inspected and maintained?
• Does everyone know where emergency equipment is located?

Risk Assessment Products supplies equipment across the complete workplace first aid and emergency-response journey, including:

• First Aid Kits
• Emergency Response Equipment
• Bleed Control & Trauma
• Eyewash Stations
• First Aid Cabinets & Storage
• First Aid Room Equipment
• Hygiene, Infection Control & Sharps Disposal
• Medical Bags & Cases
• Workplace Safety Posters & Signs
• Defibrillators

Browse All First Aid & Emergency Response Equipment

For larger facilities, multi-site organisations or workplaces with more complex risks, contact Risk Assessment Products for help identifying suitable equipment for your requirements.

Contact Risk Assessment Products

For businesses operating quarries, aggregates facilities, recycling centres, warehouses, construction sites, industrial depots and other large workplaces, AED accessibility can be just as important as AED ownership.

A defibrillator located in the main office may be convenient for administrative staff, but could it be retrieved quickly enough if someone collapses in a workshop, loading yard, processing area or remote section of the site?

For organisations managing several UK locations, the challenge can become even greater.

The question is not simply whether your business has a defibrillator. It is whether somebody can get that defibrillator to a casualty quickly enough.

How Quickly Should a Defibrillator Be Accessible?

The British Heart Foundation recommends that an AED should ideally be possible to fetch within four minutes:

• approximately two minutes to reach the AED; and
• approximately two minutes to return to the casualty.

As a general guide, BHF suggests that the device should be within around 200 metres of where it may be needed when walking briskly. 

This is an accessibility guide rather than a universal legal distance requirement.

And on many large workplaces, straight-line distance tells only part of the story.

Someone retrieving an AED may have to negotiate:

• security gates;
• separate buildings;
• stairs;
• vehicle routes;
• operating machinery;
• restricted areas;
• uneven ground;
• large storage areas;
• changing construction routes.

A defibrillator that appears close on a site plan can therefore take considerably longer to reach in practice.

Why Speed of Access Matters

Cardiac arrest is time-critical.

Resuscitation Council UK advises that an AED should be used as soon as it is available and that AED locations should be clearly signposted and easy to access. Current 2025 basic life support guidance also recommends that public-access AEDs should ideally be accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Resuscitation Council UK

Someone at the scene should call 999 and begin CPR immediately while another person retrieves the AED.

The aim is therefore not to place an AED somewhere that is simply convenient to store.

It should be placed where it can realistically reach the casualty quickly.

Does BS 8599-1:2019+A1:2026 Change Workplace AED Planning?

The 2026 amendment to BS 8599-1 is significant because the British Standard now explicitly covers:

“Contents of first aid kits and provision of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in the workplace.” 

This does not create a blanket legal requirement for every workplace to install a defibrillator.

HSE guidance still places workplace first-aid provision within the employer's first-aid needs assessment.

Where an employer decides to provide an AED following that assessment, HSE says the equipment should be appropriately managed and information or instructions supplied for its use.

The practical implication is that employers now have an even stronger reason to review:

• whether AED provision is appropriate;
• how many AEDs may be required;
• where they are located;
• whether they are readily accessible;
• how they are stored;
• how they are checked and maintained.

For a detailed explanation, read:
BS 8599-1:2019+A1:2026: What the New Workplace AED Guidance Means

Why Large Sites May Need More Than One AED

There is no universal rule saying that a workplace of a particular size must have a specific number of defibrillators.

Instead, the practical question is:

Can an AED be retrieved quickly from every area where people may be working?

This becomes particularly important on large operational sites.

A quarry, warehouse or industrial facility may contain:

• offices and reception;
• weighbridges;
• workshops;
• production areas;
• loading bays;
• yards;
• extraction or processing areas;
• welfare facilities;
• separate buildings;
• remote work zones.

One AED positioned beside reception may provide good coverage for the office but poor coverage for the furthest operational area.

In those circumstances, additional strategically positioned AEDs may reduce retrieval time significantly.

Quarries and Aggregates Sites

Quarries and aggregates facilities can cover very large geographical areas.

Workers may be based around:

• extraction areas;
• crushing and screening equipment;
• workshops;
• loading zones;
• weighbridges;
• mobile plant;
• welfare facilities.

Terrain, vehicle movement and access controls can all affect how quickly someone can retrieve emergency equipment.

An AED provision review might therefore consider several potential locations rather than automatically placing a single device in the main office.

Earthworks and Construction Sites

Construction sites present a different challenge because their layout changes.

As projects progress:

• welfare facilities may move;
• access routes change;
• teams relocate;
• buildings become inaccessible;
• working areas expand.

An AED location that provided good coverage at the start of a project may be less suitable several months later.

This means AED accessibility should be reviewed as the site evolves.

Warehouses and Distribution Centres

Large warehouses can contain:

• extensive racking;
• multiple loading bays;
• mezzanine floors;
• large yards;
• separate offices;
• secure zones.

An AED in reception may be several minutes away from someone working at the opposite end of the building.

Warehouse operators should therefore consider realistic walking routes and access barriers rather than relying on straight-line distances.

Recycling and Waste Facilities

Recycling and waste operations may include large processing yards, vehicle traffic and machinery areas.

Staff can be dispersed across several operational zones.

Where one centrally positioned AED creates long retrieval routes, further AED locations may be worth considering.

Multi-Site Businesses

Businesses operating multiple depots, quarries, warehouses or branches face another challenge.

Providing “one AED per site” may sound consistent but can actually produce very different levels of coverage.

A small depot might be adequately served by one AED.

A larger quarry or distribution centre may require several.

That is why each location should be assessed individually even when AED purchasing is managed centrally.

How Many Defibrillators Does a Large Workplace Need?

There is no simple formula.

A useful assessment should consider:

Site size and layout

How long would it take to reach an AED from the furthest regularly occupied location?

Real-world access

Consider barriers such as:

• locked doors;
• gates;
• lifts;
• stairs;
• operational vehicles;
• machinery;
• uneven terrain.

Workforce distribution

Where are people actually working throughout the day?

Shift patterns

• Can the AED still be accessed:
• overnight;
• at weekends;
• when reception is closed;
• when particular buildings are locked?

Separate buildings

A multi-building site may require different provision from a single open-plan facility.

Existing AEDs

Check:

• location;
• visibility;
• signage;
• accessibility;
• readiness.

Public access

If appropriate, could the AED also be made available to visitors or the wider community?

Changing site conditions

This is particularly important on construction and large infrastructure projects.

Don't Guess - Assess Your Site

Before buying additional AEDs, review your current coverage properly.

Risk Assessment Products provides a free Defibrillator Site Assessment Form designed to help organisations consider:

• site size;
• workforce and visitor numbers;
• existing AED provision;
• retrieval barriers;
• possible AED positions;
• indoor or outdoor storage;
• signage;
• accessibility;
• maintenance responsibilities.

Download the Free Defibrillator Site Assessment Form

This can be used for a single workplace or repeated across multiple sites to create a more consistent group-level review.

Choosing the Right AED for a Large Workplace

There is no need to limit the decision to one specific AED model.

The best device depends on the environment.

Useful factors to compare include:

• indoor or outdoor placement;
• IP rating;
• operating temperature;
• durability;
• ease of use;
• semi-automatic or fully automatic operation;
• adult and paediatric functionality;
• CPR feedback;
• pad lifespan;
• battery lifespan;
• size and portability;
• warranty and support.

Risk Assessment Products supplies AEDs from a range of manufacturers including ZOLL, i-PAD, Mindray, HeartSine, Philips, Schiller and others.

Rather than choosing purely by brand, it can be easier to start with the intended environment.

Shop AEDs by Setting

Browse Defibrillator Machines

Fully Automatic or Semi-Automatic AED?

Both types analyse the casualty's heart rhythm automatically.

A semi-automatic AED advises when a shock is required and asks the rescuer to press the shock button.

A fully automatic AED warns rescuers to stand clear and then delivers the advised shock automatically.

Neither format is universally better.

For large organisations standardising equipment across several sites, consistency may be useful because staff moving between locations encounter the same operating method.

Compare Fully Automatic AEDs

Compare Semi-Automatic AEDs

Outdoor AED Cabinets Can Improve Site Coverage

For many large sites, the best AED position may not be inside an office.

Placing an AED in a suitable outdoor cabinet can make it accessible closer to:

• workshops;
• yards;
• production areas;
• welfare areas;
• site entrances;
• sports facilities;
• remote buildings.

Depending on the AED and environment, outdoor cabinets may provide:

• weather protection;
• temperature management;
• increased visibility;
• easier access;
• mounting in operational areas rather than offices.

The cabinet must be compatible with the AED and suitable for the site conditions.

Browse AED Cabinets & Cases

For public-access devices, current Resuscitation Council UK guidance recommends unlocked cabinets to avoid unnecessary delays.

Make the AED Easy to Find

An AED is less useful if staff cannot immediately locate it.

Clear signage should be part of the installation.

Resuscitation Council UK recommends prominent AED signage and says staff should know where the nearest device is located.

Browse AED Signs & Posters

On large sites, it may also be useful to incorporate AED locations into:
site induction;
emergency procedures;
maps;
staff briefings;
first-aid documentation.

Standardising AEDs Across Multiple Sites

Centralising AED procurement can offer several operational advantages.

Using a smaller number of approved models can simplify:

• staff familiarisation;
• replacement pad purchasing;
• battery purchasing;
• record keeping;
• maintenance;
• signage;
• documentation.

However, standardising the AED model should not mean standardising the quantity.

Each site still needs its own accessibility assessment.

A business might therefore standardise on one or two AED models while purchasing:
one AED for smaller facilities;
multiple AEDs for larger sites;
outdoor cabinets where needed;
different storage arrangements according to environment.

Register Public-Access AEDs on The Circuit

Where an AED is available for public use, it should be registered on The Circuit, the UK's national defibrillator network.

Registration helps ambulance services know:
where the AED is;
when it is available;
whether it is emergency ready.

Resuscitation Council UK strongly encourages registration and maintaining accurate readiness information.

For large companies, The Circuit can also form part of a wider AED-management process.

Maintaining Multiple Workplace AEDs

Installing additional AEDs increases the importance of good management.

Each device should have a clearly assigned person or team responsible for checking:

• readiness indicator;
• electrode pads;
• pad expiry dates;
• battery status;
• cabinet condition;
• signage;
• accessibility;
• rescue accessories.

Risk Assessment Products provides a free AED Weekly Inspection Record to help organisations document routine checks.

Download the Free AED Weekly Inspection Record

Replacement Pads and Batteries

AEDs are low-maintenance devices, but consumables still need managing.

Electrode pads normally have an expiry date and must also be replaced following use.

Battery life varies by manufacturer and model.

For businesses operating multiple AEDs, standardising devices can simplify future consumable purchasing.

Shop Defibrillator Pads

Shop Defibrillator Batteries

Are Defibrillators a Legal Requirement in UK Workplaces?

There is no general UK law requiring every employer to install an AED.

Resuscitation Council UK confirms that there is no general statutory requirement for employers to provide one, although an AED can appropriately form part of a workplace first-aid needs assessment.

HSE guidance requires employers to determine appropriate first-aid provision according to their workplace circumstances.

The 2026 amendment to BS 8599-1 now gives workplace AED provision greater prominence within recognised British first-aid standards, but the standard itself is not legislation.

For large, remote or dispersed workplaces, documenting that AED provision has been considered is therefore increasingly sensible.

What Should You Do if Someone Has a Cardiac Arrest?

If somebody is unresponsive and not breathing normally:
1. Call 999.
2. Start CPR immediately.
3. Send somebody to retrieve the nearest AED.
4. Switch the AED on when it arrives.
5. Attach the pads as shown.
6. Follow the AED's spoken and visual instructions.
7. Continue CPR when instructed.

Do not wait for the AED before starting CPR.

Current Resuscitation Council UK guidance says to start chest compressions as soon as possible and use an AED as soon as it becomes available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is one defibrillator enough for a large workplace?

Not necessarily.

The appropriate number depends on realistic retrieval times, site layout, workforce distribution and barriers to access.

How far away should an AED be?

BHF recommends that an AED should ideally be possible to retrieve within four minutes - around two minutes to reach it and two minutes to return. Approximately 200 metres is given as a general brisk-walking guide.

Does every building need its own AED?

Not automatically.

Assess whether an existing AED can be brought to the casualty sufficiently quickly.

Should a quarry have more than one AED?

Potentially.

A large quarry may have separate offices, processing facilities, workshops and extraction areas. Practical retrieval time should determine whether additional AED locations are appropriate.

Can AEDs be stored outside?

Yes, provided the AED is protected appropriately and the installation follows the manufacturer's operating requirements.

Should outdoor AED cabinets be locked?

For public-access AEDs, Resuscitation Council UK recommends unlocked cabinets because they remove delays in emergency access.

Should public-access workplace AEDs be registered?

Yes.

Register them on The Circuit so ambulance services can locate them during emergencies.

Is there a legal requirement to have an AED at work?

There is no general UK statutory requirement for all workplaces to have an AED. Employers should determine appropriate provision through their first-aid needs assessment.

Does BS 8599-1:2019+A1:2026 mean workplaces must buy AEDs?

Not as a blanket legal requirement.

The amendment explicitly addresses workplace AED provision, making it an important best-practice consideration, but a British Standard is not itself legislation.

Review Your Workplace AED Coverage

For large workplaces, the question should not simply be:

“Do we have a defibrillator?”

It should be:

“Can someone get an AED to a casualty quickly from every important area of this site?”

Risk Assessment Products can help organisations plan and maintain workplace AED provision with:

Defibrillator Machines
Shop AEDs by Setting
AED Cabinets & Cases
AED Signs & Posters
Defibrillator Pads
Defibrillator Batteries
Free AED Site Assessment Form
Free AED Weekly Inspection Record

For organisations operating several sites, RAP can also help identify suitable AED models, cabinets and supporting equipment for a more consistent purchasing approach.

Contact Risk Assessment Products with your enquiry here.

But warehouses, construction sites, industrial facilities, schools, universities, sports venues and other large premises can present a very different challenge.

If an incident occurs hundreds of metres from the nearest first aid point, staff may need to leave the casualty, retrieve equipment and then carry multiple supplies back to the scene.

A mobile first aid response box provides another option: instead of bringing individual supplies to the emergency, responders can bring an organised first aid storage station directly to where it is needed.

Risk Assessment Products supplies mobile first aid storage designed for larger workplaces and emergency-response environments.

What Is Mobile First Aid Storage?

Mobile first aid storage is a wheeled cabinet or response box designed to hold and transport first aid and emergency-response equipment around a workplace or site.

Unlike a fixed wall-mounted cabinet, a mobile response box can be moved between locations as operational needs change.

Depending on the equipment stored inside, this can allow responders to transport:

• workplace first aid kits;
• trauma dressings;
• bleed control equipment;
• burns supplies;
• eyewash products;
• PPE;
• biohazard equipment;
• emergency blankets;
• first aid consumables; and
• other site-specific emergency supplies.

The storage equipment itself does not determine what should be carried. The contents should reflect the organisation's first aid needs assessment.

Why Can Mobile First Aid Storage Be Useful?

HSE requires employers to provide first aid arrangements that are adequate and appropriate for their circumstances.

That assessment should consider the workplace, workforce, hazards and risks, as well as issues such as remote workers, workforce distribution, distance from emergency medical services and first aid provision for members of the public.

HSE also states that while every workplace should have at least one first aid kit, larger sites may require more than one, and first aid equipment should be easily accessible. HSE

That makes accessibility particularly important on large or complex sites.

Imagine an incident occurring:

• at the far end of a distribution warehouse;
• on a remote section of a construction project;
• in another building on a school campus;
• beside an outdoor sports area;
• within a manufacturing facility;
• at a transport depot;
• across a large public venue.

A fixed first aid point may remain essential, but a mobile response unit can provide an additional way to bring larger quantities of emergency equipment closer to the casualty.

Introducing the Wheeled First Aid Response Box Range

Risk Assessment Products currently offers two main mobile first aid storage options:

• 100F Wheeled First Aid Response Box
• 95M Wheeled First Aid Response Box

Both provide substantial mobile storage, but they are designed around slightly different priorities.

100F Wheeled First Aid Response Box - Mobile First Aid Cabinet

The 100F Mobile First Aid Cabinet is designed for demanding workplaces requiring robust, protected emergency storage.

The enclosure is manufactured from UV-stabilised roto-moulded polyethylene and is designed to resist impact and corrosion.

Key features include:

• IP56-rated enclosure to BS EN 60529
• UV-stabilised polyethylene construction
• 160 mm integrated wheels
• built-in handles
• foot grip for easier manoeuvring
• tamper-resistant locking arrangement
• break-glass emergency key access
• freestanding or wall-mounted installation
• generous internal storage space.

Dimensions: 1000 mm high x 450 mm wide x 320 mm deep.

Where might the 100F be most suitable?

The 100F is particularly relevant where equipment may need additional environmental protection or security.

Potential settings include:

• construction sites;
• manufacturing facilities;
• distribution warehouses;
• transport depots;
• engineering sites;
• industrial workplaces;
• utilities operations.

View the 100F Mobile First Aid Cabinet

95M Wheeled First Aid Response Box - Mobile First Aid Storage

The 95M Wheeled First Aid Response Box takes a slightly different approach.

Its design focuses strongly on visibility, internal organisation and ease of access.

Features include:

• UV-stabilised polyethylene construction
• UV-blocking polycarbonate viewing window
• 200 mm solid synthetic rubber wheels
• removable internal shelf
• internal buckle and webbing securing strap
• protective door seal
• twin toggle latches with split pins
• high-visibility first aid design.

The window allows responsible staff to inspect stored equipment without necessarily opening the cabinet.
Its removable shelf and internal securing strap also make it useful where several types of emergency equipment need to be kept organised.

Dimensions: 1000 mm high × 540 mm wide × 345 mm deep.

Where might the 95M be most suitable?

Possible environments include:

• schools;
• universities;
• leisure centres;
• sports venues;
• event locations;
• warehouses;
• public-access facilities;
• large commercial premises.

View the 95M Wheeled First Aid Response Box

100F vs 95M: Which Mobile First Aid Cabinet Should You Choose?

The choice therefore depends less on which unit is "better" and more on where it will be used and what needs to be stored inside.

What Should You Store in a Mobile First Aid Cabinet?
The contents should come from the organisation's first aid needs assessment rather than from a generic list.

HSE says first aid provision should reflect factors such as:

• the nature of the work;
• workplace hazards;
• workforce size;
• work patterns;
• accident history;
• remote or lone workers;
• distribution of the workforce;
• proximity to emergency medical services; and
• whether non-employees may require first aid.

That means a school, warehouse and construction site may all need very different contents.

Workplace First Aid Kits

A standard workplace first aid kit provides supplies for common injuries and should normally form part of wider workplace first aid arrangements.

The quantity and contents should reflect the first aid needs assessment.

Shop First Aid Kits

This is one of the most natural products to purchase alongside a mobile response box.

Bleed Control & Trauma Equipment

Some workplaces or public venues may identify a need for specialist equipment for severe bleeding.

This may be particularly relevant to environments involving:

• machinery;
• sharp tools;
• construction work;
• manufacturing;
• public-access venues;
• higher-risk operations.

A mobile response cabinet can provide space for appropriate trauma supplies where they have been identified as part of the organisation's risk and first aid planning.

Explore Bleed Control & Trauma Equipment

Potential equipment may include trauma dressings, tourniquets and specialist bleed-control kits where appropriate

Eyewash Equipment
Sites involving dust, particulates, chemicals or other eye hazards may also require suitable eyewash provision.

Portable eyewash products may form part of a mobile response arrangement where the first aid needs assessment identifies the requirement.

Browse Eyewash Stations & Equipment

Burns First Aid

Workplaces involving:

• hot machinery;
• hot liquids;
• welding;
• electrical work;
• kitchens;
• manufacturing processes;

may identify a need for dedicated burns supplies.

Where the risk assessment supports it, burns products can be stored alongside other first aid equipment in a larger mobile response unit.

PPE and Responder Equipment

Depending on the application, useful supporting equipment may include:
disposable gloves;
face protection;
aprons;
CPR barriers;
scissors;
waste bags;
cleaning supplies.

These should again be selected according to the risks and procedures of the site.

Can a Mobile First Aid Cabinet Replace Fixed First Aid Provision?

Not necessarily.

For many sites, mobile first aid storage works best alongside fixed first aid points rather than replacing them.

For example, a large warehouse might have:

• a main first aid room;
• fixed first aid kits at key locations;
• a mobile first aid response box for incidents further across the site.

Similarly, a school campus might maintain first aid supplies in the main office while also using a mobile response unit for sports areas, outdoor events or buildings further away.

The objective is to make emergency equipment accessible without creating unnecessary delays.

Are the Mobile Response Boxes Supplied Stocked?

No. The 100F and 95M products are first aid storage units.

First aid kits, bleed-control equipment, eyewash supplies and other medical consumables must be selected and purchased separately.

This gives organisations flexibility to stock the cabinet according to their actual needs rather than receiving a fixed generic contents package.

Mobile First Aid Storage for Warehouses

Warehouses are particularly well suited to mobile emergency storage because they can cover substantial floor areas.

Potential challenges include:

• long walking distances;
• racking restricting direct routes;
• separate loading bays;
• mezzanine floors;
• yard areas;
• moving plant and vehicles.

HSE specifically advises employers to consider workforce distribution and requires first aid equipment to be easily accessible.

A mobile response box could therefore complement strategically positioned fixed first aid kits.

Mobile First Aid Storage for Construction Sites

Construction projects create another clear use case.

Work locations can change as the project progresses, making purely fixed first aid arrangements less flexible.

A wheeled cabinet can allow an appointed responder or first aid team to relocate larger quantities of equipment as site activity moves.

The 100F is particularly relevant because of its robust construction, IP56-rated enclosure and secure access arrangement.

However, construction employers must still ensure that their wider first aid arrangements remain adequate for the site and workforce.

Mobile First Aid Storage for Schools and Universities

Educational campuses can include:

• ultiple buildings;
• workshops;
• sports halls;
• playing fields;
• science departments;
• performance spaces;
• outdoor areas.

A 95M response box could be particularly useful where first aid resources need to move between these different environments.

The visible window also makes stock checks easier.

Mobile First Aid Storage for Sports and Leisure Facilities

Sports venues can present additional challenges because incidents may happen some distance from reception or a fixed treatment room.

A mobile cabinet can provide space for:

• routine first aid products;
• trauma dressings;
• cold packs;
• PPE;
• specialist emergency equipment identified by the venue.

This may be useful in leisure centres, sports grounds, athletics facilities and large community venues.

Mobile First Aid Storage for Public Venues

Large public-facing premises may also benefit from reviewing how emergency equipment is distributed.

Potential settings include:

• exhibition centres;
• entertainment venues;
• visitor attractions;
• transport facilities;
• large hospitality sites.

Where many people may be present, emergency preparedness should consider not just what equipment exists but how quickly trained responders can actually access and deploy it.

What About Martyn's Law?

The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, commonly referred to as Martyn's Law, introduces new protective-security requirements for qualifying premises and events.

However, its substantive duties are not yet in force. The Home Office says there is no legal requirement to comply until commencement, and that the implementation period is at least 24 months from Royal Assent. 

Mobile first aid storage is also not specifically mandated by Martyn's Law.

That said, organisations reviewing wider emergency-response and protective-security arrangements may reasonably consider whether emergency medical equipment can be deployed effectively throughout the premises.

The important point is to avoid presenting a mobile cabinet as a Martyn's Law compliance product in itself.

How Should Mobile First Aid Equipment Be Managed?

A response cabinet still needs ongoing management.

Responsibility should be assigned for:

• checking contents;
• monitoring expiry dates;
• replacing items after use;
• checking cabinet condition;
• confirming equipment remains accessible;
• ensuring staff know where the unit is stored;
• keeping wheels, locks and latches operational.

HSE recommends checking first aid kits regularly and replacing expired or used contents promptly. HSE

Can the Response Box Be Left Empty Until Needed?

That would defeat much of its purpose.

A mobile first aid cabinet is most useful when it is:

• appropriately stocked;
• organised;
• easy to identify;
• ready to deploy.

Organisations should therefore decide in advance which supplies belong inside and who is responsible for maintaining them.

Where Should a Mobile First Aid Cabinet Be Stored?

A mobile unit still needs a defined home location.

It should be:

• easy for responders to locate;
• accessible;
• clearly identified;
• not blocked by equipment;
• positioned where it can be moved quickly.

For very large sites, it may make sense to locate several fixed or mobile first aid resources rather than relying on one centrally stored unit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a wheeled first aid cabinet?

A wheeled first aid cabinet is a mobile storage unit designed to transport first aid and emergency-response equipment around larger workplaces and sites.

Are mobile first aid cabinets a legal requirement?

No.

UK employers must provide adequate and appropriate first aid arrangements based on their first aid needs assessment. A mobile cabinet may be one way of supporting those arrangements where the workplace layout or workforce distribution makes it useful.

Does HSE require more than one first aid kit on large sites?

HSE states that at least one first aid kit should be provided for each workplace and that more than one may be required on larger sites.

Which mobile first aid cabinet is better for construction?

The 100F may be particularly suitable for demanding environments because it provides an IP56-rated enclosure, robust polyethylene construction and secure emergency access.

Which mobile first aid cabinet is better for schools or venues?

The 95M may be particularly useful where visibility and organisation are important, because it includes a viewing window, removable shelf, securing strap and larger wheels.

Are first aid supplies included?

No. The current 100F and 95M models are supplied as storage units.

Can I store bleed-control equipment inside?

Yes, provided it forms part of the site's appropriate emergency-response arrangements and the cabinet has sufficient capacity.

Can I store eyewash supplies inside?

Yes. Portable eyewash products can be incorporated where the first aid needs assessment identifies an eye-injury risk.

Can mobile first aid storage replace a first aid room?

Not automatically.

Where a first aid needs assessment identifies the need for a dedicated first aid room, a mobile cabinet would not remove that requirement. HSE says first aid rooms are usually necessary in larger premises or where higher hazards are present when identified by the assessment.

Does Martyn's Law require mobile first aid equipment?

No. The Act does not specifically require wheeled first aid cabinets, and its substantive duties have not yet commenced.

Build a More Complete Mobile Emergency Response Setup

Mobile first aid storage is most valuable when it forms part of a wider emergency-response system.
Risk Assessment Products supplies equipment to help organisations build that system, including:

• Mobile First Aid Storage
• First Aid Kits
• Bleed Control & Trauma Equipment
• Eyewash Stations
• First Aid Trolleys
• First Aid Stations
• Emergency Response Equipment

Bring First Aid Equipment Closer to the Emergency

Effective first aid provision is not just about owning the correct equipment.

It is also about making sure that equipment is:
accessible, organised, maintained and available where it is needed.

For large workplaces, construction sites, warehouses, schools, universities, sports venues and public facilities, wheeled first aid storage can provide a practical additional way to deploy emergency equipment.

Compare the Range

Shop Mobile First Aid Storage

Or view the individual products:
100F Wheeled First Aid Response Box
95M Wheeled First Aid Response Box

For help choosing suitable first aid and emergency-response equipment, contact us here

For ambulance crews, hospital resuscitation teams and specialist emergency responders, these situations present significant practical challenges.

The LUCAS 3.1 CPR Chest Compression System, manufactured by Stryker, is designed to help trained healthcare professionals deliver consistent mechanical chest compressions in selected resuscitation circumstances.

The device can support resuscitation during patient movement, specialist interventions and other situations where delivering high-quality manual CPR is impractical or may compromise rescuer safety.

However, mechanical CPR is not recommended as a routine replacement for manual CPR, and organisations need to consider clinical suitability, training, equipment readiness and operational requirements before investing.

So, how does the LUCAS 3.1 work, where can it be useful and what should healthcare organisations consider when choosing a mechanical CPR system?

What Is the LUCAS 3 CPR Chest Compression System?

The LUCAS 3.1 is a portable, battery-powered mechanical chest compression device designed for use by trained healthcare professionals during cardiac arrest.

Instead of requiring a rescuer to perform every chest compression manually, LUCAS uses a motor-driven piston with a suction cup positioned over the patient's chest.

Once correctly fitted and activated, the device delivers chest compressions at a consistent, configured rate and depth.

The system can be used in selected circumstances where conventional manual compressions are difficult to maintain or create additional safety risks.

Typical environments include:

• Ambulance and pre-hospital emergency services
• Hospital emergency departments
• Cardiac catheterisation laboratories
• Critical care and specialist patient transfers
• Appropriately trained specialist emergency-response teams.

The LUCAS 3.1 does not replace clinical assessment, trained resuscitation personnel, defibrillation or other advanced life support treatments.

View the LUCAS 3.1 CPR Chest Compression System

Why Is Maintaining High-Quality CPR Challenging?

Chest compressions are physically demanding, particularly during prolonged resuscitation.

Clinical teams must deliver appropriate compression depth, rate and recoil while limiting interruptions and managing other essential treatments.

Several situations can make this difficult.

1. Rescuer Fatigue During Prolonged CPR

Repeated manual compressions require considerable physical effort.

During prolonged resuscitation, fatigue can affect the quality and consistency of compressions.

Clinical teams normally rotate rescuers performing compressions, aiming to keep interruptions as short as possible.

Where mechanical CPR is clinically appropriate, LUCAS can reduce the physical burden of repeated manual compressions.

2. CPR During Ambulance Transport

Delivering effective manual chest compressions inside a moving ambulance can be challenging.

Personnel attempting compressions may be unable to remain safely seated and restrained, potentially exposing them to additional risks.

For selected patients, mechanical chest compressions can provide an alternative where manual CPR cannot be delivered safely or effectively during transport.

Deployment must still follow local clinical protocols and transport arrangements.

3. Complex Hospital Procedures

Some patients require specialist treatment while resuscitation continues.

For example, in a cardiac catheterisation laboratory, manual chest compressions may interfere with clinical procedures or expose staff to additional risks during imaging.

Mechanical CPR may help maintain compressions while allowing clinicians to perform necessary investigations or interventions in appropriate circumstances.

4. Limited Personnel and Competing Clinical Tasks

Resuscitation teams must coordinate several interventions, including:

• Airway management and ventilation
• Defibrillation
• Medication administration
• Monitoring and rhythm assessment
• Identifying and treating reversible causes
• Preparing for specialist interventions

Where manual compression delivery becomes impractical, mechanical CPR may provide additional operational capability.

The purpose is to support clinically appropriate resuscitation, not eliminate the need for trained personnel.

Five Features of the LUCAS 3.1 Mechanical CPR System

1. Consistent Chest Compressions

The LUCAS 3.1 provides automated compressions using controlled mechanical settings.

The device offers configurable rates of:

• 102 compressions per minute
• 111 compressions per minute
• 120 compressions per minute

Compression depth can be configured between 45 mm and 53 mm, with actual operating depth dependent on patient chest dimensions and the manufacturer's specifications.

This allows authorised clinical teams to use consistent device settings within approved operating protocols.

2. Support During Patient Movement

Moving or transporting a patient in cardiac arrest can make manual CPR difficult.

In appropriately selected circumstances, LUCAS can maintain mechanical compressions during movement or transport.

This may be relevant during transfers to specialist departments or facilities where further treatment is planned.

3. Reduced Physical Demands on Rescuers

Automated compressions reduce the need for continuous manual compression delivery while the device is operating.

This can be useful during prolonged or technically demanding resuscitations.

However, clinical teams must continue to supervise the patient, assess treatment effectiveness and manage all other aspects of resuscitation.

4. Configurable Operating Settings

LUCAS 3.1 incorporates several configurable features, including:

• Compression rate and depth
• Compression and ventilation settings
• Adjustable ventilation pauses
• Compression cycle options
• AutoFit and QuickFit piston-positioning functions
• An audible CPR timer
• Optional pressure pad release
• Configuration changes must be made by appropriately authorised personnel following the manufacturer's instructions and local clinical procedures.

5. Connectivity and Post-Event Review

The device supports Wi-Fi connectivity and compatible data-management functions.

Depending on the organisation's configuration and available systems, these may include integration with Stryker's LIFENET and CODE-STAT services.

Post-event data can support clinical review, equipment management and resuscitation quality-improvement processes.

LUCAS 3.1 vs Manual CPR: When Is Mechanical CPR Appropriate?

Mechanical CPR is not routinely recommended in preference to high-quality manual chest compressions.

Resuscitation Council UK's 2025 Adult Advanced Life Support Guidelines recommend considering mechanical chest compressions only when:

• High-quality manual chest compressions are impractical; or
• Manual compressions would compromise the safety of the rescuer.

The guidelines also emphasise the importance of minimising interruptions during device application and ensuring that deployment is carried out by trained teams familiar with the equipment.

This distinction is important when evaluating LUCAS 3.1.

The strongest justification for using mechanical CPR lies in identified clinical or operational challenges, rather than assuming automated compressions are always superior.

Does Mechanical CPR Improve Survival Rates?

Mechanical CPR devices can deliver consistent compressions, but this does not mean they have been proven to improve survival when used routinely instead of manual CPR.

The UK PARAMEDIC trial assessed the earlier LUCAS 2 mechanical CPR device in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest.

It found no evidence of improved 30-day survival compared with conventional manual chest compressions.

Other randomised research has similarly not established a general survival benefit from routine mechanical CPR use.

These findings do not remove the potential operational value of mechanical CPR in selected circumstances.

Instead, they reinforce the need to match device use to clinical requirements, professional judgement and current resuscitation guidance.

For NHS procurement teams and healthcare organisations, LUCAS should therefore be considered as a specialist capability rather than a universal replacement for manual CPR.

Where Can LUCAS 3.1 Be Particularly Useful?

Ambulance and Pre-Hospital Emergency Services

In selected transport situations, mechanical CPR can reduce the need for personnel to perform manual compressions in a moving vehicle.

This may help teams manage staff safety while maintaining resuscitation efforts during transfer.

Hospital Emergency Departments

Emergency departments may encounter complex or prolonged resuscitations where manual compression delivery becomes difficult.

Mechanical CPR may be considered where appropriate under local protocols.

Cardiac Catheterisation Laboratories

During selected cardiac procedures, mechanical compressions may allow clinicians to continue treatment while reducing interruptions or difficulties associated with manual compressions.

Critical Care and Specialist Transfers

Selected patients may require transfer to advanced cardiac treatment, including facilities providing extracorporeal CPR (ECPR).

Mechanical compressions may support these carefully planned transfers where clinically indicated.

Specialist Emergency-Response Organisations

Appropriately trained teams operating in challenging environments may consider mechanical CPR where high-quality manual compressions cannot be safely or practically maintained.

In every setting, patient eligibility, device positioning, training and local clinical governance remain essential.

LUCAS 3.1: Key Technical Specifications

• Manufacturer: Stryker
• Device: LUCAS 3, version 3.1
• Device type: Mechanical chest compression system
• Compression mechanism: Motor-driven piston with suction cup
• Compression rate: Configurable to 102, 111 or 120 per minute
• Compression depth: Configurable 45–53 mm, subject to patient dimensions
• Power: Rechargeable battery or compatible external supply
• Battery operation: Typically around 45 minutes per fully charged battery
• Ventilation support: Configurable alerts and pause settings
• Positioning: AutoFit and QuickFit functions
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi and compatible reporting systems
• Intended operators: Appropriately trained professionals.

Actual settings, operating limits, patient suitability and battery performance must be checked against the relevant manufacturer's instructions for use.

What Is Included with the LUCAS 3.1 System?

The LUCAS 3.1 system supplied by Risk Assessment Products, Stryker part number 99576-000065, includes:

• 1 x LUCAS 3.1 Chest Compression System
• 1 x Rechargeable battery
• 1 x Hard shell carrying case
• 1 x Stabilisation strap
• 1 x Patient wrist straps
• 2 x Disposable suction cups
• Instructions for use

The system is supplied with the principal components for operation.

However, the external power supply is a separately purchased accessory, and organisations should consider whether additional equipment is appropriate for their intended use.

What Else Should You Buy with a LUCAS 3.1 CPR System?

For ambulance services, NHS departments and specialist emergency-response organisations, the initial device purchase is only part of the procurement decision.

Operational readiness also depends on power arrangements, available consumables, storage, inspection and maintenance.

LUCAS 3 Replacement Batteries

The standard system includes one rechargeable battery.

An additional battery may be useful for:

• Prolonged resuscitation incidents
• Battery rotation
• Consecutive deployments
• Operations involving several vehicles or departments
• Maintaining equipment availability between incidents

According to Stryker, a fully charged battery typically provides approximately 45 minutes of operation, subject to operating conditions.

Healthcare organisations should consider whether the standard battery provision is sufficient for their anticipated deployments.

Shop LUCAS Replacement Batteries

LUCAS 3.1 External Power Supply

The compatible LUCAS 3.1 power supply is intended to support external power operation and battery charging arrangements.

This may be particularly relevant for hospital departments, equipment stores and clinical teams managing extended device availability.

An appropriate charging and power-management process helps ensure the device is ready when required.

View the LUCAS 3.1 Chest Compression Power Supply

Replacement Suction Cups and Consumables

LUCAS 3.1 uses device-specific components that must be managed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.

Healthcare organisations should consider:

• Availability of approved replacement suction cups
• Replacement intervals
• Inspection requirements
• Stock-control procedures
• Cleaning and infection-prevention arrangements
• Compatibility with the installed device version

Only manufacturer-approved compatible components should be used.

Hard Shell Carrying Case

The standard LUCAS 3.1 system already includes a hard shell carrying case.

However, replacement cases may be required where existing equipment has become damaged or unsuitable.

The carrying case is designed to provide protection during storage and transport and includes practical features for equipment management.

View LUCAS Carrying Cases

Mechanical CPR and Defibrillation: What Other Equipment Is Needed?

LUCAS provides chest compressions. It is not a defibrillator, and it does not independently assess or treat shockable cardiac arrest rhythms.

Advanced resuscitation may require:

• Rhythm assessment
• Defibrillation
• Airway and ventilation management
• Physiological monitoring
• Medication administration
• Treatment of reversible causes

The equipment used depends on the clinical environment and approved resuscitation protocols.

For example, appropriately trained advanced life support teams may use a manual defibrillator/monitor as part of their standard resuscitation equipment.

Public-access AEDs serve a different operating requirement and should not be assumed to replace specialist professional monitoring and defibrillation equipment.

Risk Assessment Products also supplies a range of Defibrillators & AEDs for relevant clinical, workplace and emergency-response requirements.

Airway Management and Supporting Resuscitation Equipment

Chest compressions are only one component of advanced life support.

Specialist resuscitation teams must also manage airway patency, ventilation and other clinical interventions.

Depending on the clinical environment, equipment may include:

• Airway-management devices
• Ventilation equipment
• Suction equipment
• Monitoring equipment
• Appropriate resuscitation consumables

Equipment requirements should be established through the organisation's clinical protocols and procurement arrangements.

Risk Assessment Products supplies suction devices as part of its wider medical and emergency-response equipment range.

LUCAS 3.1 Training and Familiarisation

Effective mechanical CPR requires more than familiarity with the control panel.

Personnel must understand when the device is clinically appropriate, how to apply it correctly and how to minimise interruptions to chest compressions.

Training programmes should cover:

Device Application

Correct patient assessment, positioning and fitting in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.

Minimising Interruptions

Coordinating deployment so that interruption to chest compressions is kept as short as possible.

Team Coordination

Clear roles and communication between responders during installation, operation and removal.

Clinical Procedures

Integration with local advanced life support protocols, including defibrillation and ventilation.

Device Removal

Recognising circumstances in which the device needs repositioning, discontinuation or removal.

Post-Use Readiness

Cleaning, inspection, battery management and replacement of applicable consumables.

Training and competency arrangements must reflect the specific LUCAS model.

General CPR manikins should not be assumed to be compatible with mechanical chest compression devices without manufacturer confirmation.

Risk Assessment Products also supplies wider CPR training equipment for relevant training requirements.

How Should LUCAS 3.1 Be Checked and Maintained?

Like other critical resuscitation equipment, mechanical chest compression systems require routine readiness checks.

These should follow the manufacturer's instructions and the organisation's equipment-management procedures.

Areas to consider include:

• Battery charge and condition
• Power-supply arrangements
• Visible damage or wear
• Mechanical components
• Straps and accessories
• Availability of replacement suction cups
• Device cleanliness
• Fault indications
• Maintenance and servicing requirements
• Equipment readiness after deployment

Responsibilities should be clearly assigned so that the system is available and operational whenever it is required.

For larger organisations operating multiple LUCAS devices, consistent equipment checks and documented asset management can be particularly important.

LUCAS 3.1 Procurement Checklist

Before investing in a mechanical CPR system, procurement and clinical teams should review the complete operational requirement.

1. Intended Use

Will the system be deployed in an ambulance, emergency department, catheterisation laboratory or specialist transfer service?

2. Clinical Suitability

Are the intended situations consistent with Resuscitation Council UK guidance and locally approved procedures?

3. Patient Eligibility

Are staff trained to recognise patients who meet the manufacturer's criteria for device use?

4. Batteries and Power

Will additional batteries or external power equipment be needed?

5. Transport and Storage

How will the system be stored, protected and transported?

6. Replacement Consumables

How will approved replacement components be sourced and managed?

7. Training

Are appropriate initial and refresher training arrangements in place?

8. Maintenance

Who is responsible for routine checks, servicing and post-use readiness?

9. Clinical Governance

Are the required protocols, competency records and event-review arrangements established?

10. Total Cost of Ownership

Has the organisation considered the purchase price alongside accessories, training, replacement components and ongoing support?

The aim is to assess the system as part of the complete resuscitation capability rather than as a standalone device purchase.

Is the LUCAS 3.1 Worth the Investment?

The value of a mechanical chest compression system depends on the circumstances in which it will be used.

Where teams can consistently provide high-quality manual CPR without compromising staff safety, routine mechanical compression use has not been shown to provide a general survival advantage.

However, clinical services regularly dealing with difficult resuscitation environments may identify specific operational reasons to consider LUCAS 3.1.

Examples include:

• Resuscitation during selected patient transfers
• Challenging ambulance transport conditions
• Specialist catheterisation procedures
• Prolonged resuscitation where manual compressions become impractical
• Situations in which manual CPR exposes staff to additional risk

For these services, procurement decisions should be based on a documented clinical and operational assessment.

A properly planned purchase should also consider staff training, maintenance, approved accessories and readiness procedures.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is LUCAS 3.1 used for?

LUCAS 3.1 is a mechanical chest compression system used by trained professionals during selected cardiac arrest resuscitations, particularly where effective manual compressions are impractical or compromise rescuer safety.

Is mechanical CPR better than manual CPR?

Not routinely. Current UK guidelines do not recommend replacing high-quality manual CPR with mechanical CPR as standard practice.

Does LUCAS 3.1 improve survival?

Routine use of mechanical CPR has not been shown to provide a general survival advantage over high-quality manual CPR. Clinical studies involving the earlier LUCAS 2 system found no improvement in overall 30-day survival.

Can LUCAS 3.1 be used in an ambulance?

It may be used during selected ambulance transfers where clinically appropriate and where deployment follows relevant protocols, training and safety procedures.

How long does a LUCAS 3.1 battery last?

A fully charged battery typically provides approximately 45 minutes of operation. Actual performance varies with operating conditions and battery status.

Does LUCAS 3.1 require an external power supply?

The device can operate on its rechargeable battery. An external power supply is available separately to support compatible power and charging arrangements.

What comes with the LUCAS 3.1 system?

The standard RAP-listed package includes the device, one battery, hard shell carrying case, stabilisation strap, patient wrist straps, two disposable suction cups and instructions for use.

Does LUCAS 3.1 replace a defibrillator?

No. LUCAS provides mechanical chest compressions. Defibrillation, rhythm assessment and other advanced life support treatments remain separate clinical interventions.

Who can operate LUCAS 3.1?

It is intended for appropriately trained professionals familiar with the equipment, patient eligibility requirements and local resuscitation protocols.

What should organisations budget for?

In addition to the device, organisations should consider compatible spare batteries, external power arrangements, approved consumables, training, servicing and ongoing equipment management.

Buy the LUCAS 3.1 CPR Chest Compression System in the UK

Risk Assessment Products supplies specialist resuscitation and emergency-response equipment for healthcare organisations, ambulance services and trained professional responders.

Our LUCAS range includes the LUCAS 3.1 CPR Chest Compression System and supporting accessories to help organisations plan for appropriate deployment and operational readiness.

Explore the range:

LUCAS 3.1 CPR Chest Compression System

LUCAS Replacement Batteries and Accessories

LUCAS 3.1 Power Supply

LUCAS Hard Shell Carrying Case

Defibrillators & AEDs

Planning a clinical equipment purchase or reviewing your current mechanical CPR capability?

Contact Risk Assessment Products to discuss the available LUCAS equipment, compatible accessories and procurement requirements.

Contact Risk Assessment Products

Clinical information: LUCAS 3.1 is specialist medical equipment intended for trained professional use. This article provides general product and procurement information and does not replace the manufacturer's instructions, clinical assessment, current resuscitation guidelines or local procedures.

BS 8599-1:2019+A1:2026 expands the existing workplace first-aid standard to include the provision of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in the workplace. 

For employers, facilities managers, health and safety professionals and workplace first aiders, this is an important development.

The amendment increases the emphasis on not simply owning a defibrillator, but making sure it is:

• appropriate for the workplace;
• easy to find;
• positioned where it can be reached quickly;
• stored appropriately;
• accessible when needed; and
• properly managed after installation.

It does not mean that a new UK law suddenly requires every workplace to install an AED.
Instead, employers should review their first-aid arrangements and consider AED provision as part of their first-aid needs assessment.

What Is BS 8599-1:2019+A1:2026?

BS 8599-1 is the British Standard covering workplace first-aid equipment.

The 2026 amendment changes the title and scope so that it now covers:
“Contents of first aid kits and provision of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in the workplace.” (you can purchase the guidance online at British Standards).

Previous versions focused principally on workplace first-aid kit contents.

The amended version now also addresses areas including:

• workplace AED provision;
• burns first-aid kits;
• eyewash provision; and
• the needs of people other than employees, including contractors and visitors.

When Was BS 8599-1:2019+A1:2026 Published?

The amendment was published in April 2026.

BSI’s standards-development record shows publication activity beginning on 24 April 2026, while industry publication announcements widely cite 30 April 2026.

For practical workplace purposes, this is now the current amended version of BS 8599-1.

Does BS 8599-1:2019+A1:2026 Make Workplace AEDs a Legal Requirement?

No, not by itself.

A British Standard is not the same thing as legislation.

The Health and Safety Executive states that workplace first-aid arrangements should be based on the employer’s first-aid needs assessment. HSE also says that although employers should look for BS 8599 when buying first-aid equipment, there is no legal requirement for a first-aid kit itself to comply with the standard.

The same distinction is important when discussing AEDs.

The new amendment represents recognised best-practice guidance, rather than a blanket statutory rule that every workplace must buy a defibrillator.

However, the fact that AED provision now sits explicitly within a recognised national workplace first-aid standard makes it much more important for employers to document that they have considered AED provision.

What Does the New Standard Say About AEDs?

Industry guidance interpreting the amended standard consistently reports that workplaces with five or more people present during operating hours should consider provision of an AED that is:

• clearly displayed;
• wall mounted or kept in a suitable cabinet;
• accessible within approximately two minutes from all areas of the workplace; and
• available to the public where practicable.

This is a significant shift in emphasis.

The question is no longer simply:
“Do we own a defibrillator?”

It becomes:
“Can someone actually get that defibrillator to a casualty quickly enough?”

What Is the Two-Minute AED Principle?
The most discussed part of the 2026 update is the expectation that an AED should be reachable quickly across the workplace.

Industry interpretations of BS 8599-1:2019+A1:2026 describe this as a two-minute accessibility expectation.

That has practical implications for larger sites.

One AED at reception may be perfectly accessible in a small office.

The same single AED may be inadequate for:

• a large warehouse;
• a multi-storey office;
• a manufacturing plant;
• a construction site;
• a distribution centre;
• a large school campus; or
• a site split across several buildings.

The important consideration is therefore retrieval time, not simply the number of AEDs purchased.

Why Does AED Retrieval Time Matter?

Cardiac arrest is time critical.

Resuscitation Council UK states that the best chance of successful resuscitation occurs when CPR and defibrillation are carried out with minimal delay. Its AED guidance notes that survival rates above 70% have been reported where defibrillation occurs within three minutes of collapse in some settings. 

That is why accessibility matters as much as ownership.

An AED that is:

• locked in an office;
• stored in a cupboard;
• poorly signposted;
• several floors away; or
• inaccessible outside normal hours

may provide much less practical benefit during an emergency.

Does a Workplace With Five or More People Automatically Need an AED?

This is where employers should be cautious about simplified headlines.

Some suppliers are currently presenting the amendment as:

“All workplaces with five or more people require an AED.”

That wording is stronger than the legal position.

The more accurate approach is:

• the amended British Standard sets out AED provision expectations;
• employers should consider those expectations within their first-aid needs assessment;
• workplace size, footfall, site layout and risk all matter;

British Standards are not legislation in themselves.

HSE’s overarching approach remains risk based.

• Resuscitation Council UK also recommends assessing factors such as:
• number of people present;
• age profile;
• footfall;
• nature of the workplace;
• specific occupational risks;
• consequences of cardiac arrest; and
• accessibility of emergency equipment.

How Should Employers Assess AED Provision?

A sensible workplace review should consider:

Number of people on site
Include:

• employees;
• contractors;
• visitors;
• customers;
• members of the public.

The 2026 standard places greater emphasis on the total number of people who may be present, rather than employees alone.

Site size
Large sites may require more than one AED to achieve reasonable accessibility.

Number of floors
A defibrillator on the ground floor may not be quickly accessible from upper floors.

Separate buildings
Sites containing multiple buildings should consider realistic retrieval routes.

Restricted areas
Security doors, turnstiles and controlled-access zones can significantly increase AED retrieval time.

Footfall
Busy public-facing environments can carry a greater likelihood of cardiac arrest simply because more people pass through them.

Workforce demographics
Resuscitation Council UK notes that cardiac arrest risk increases with age. Resuscitation Council UK

Workplace activity
Physical exertion and certain workplace hazards may affect the assessment.

Use Our Free Defibrillator Site Assessment Form

Risk Assessment Products provides a free Defibrillator Site Assessment Form to help organisations review:

• workforce and visitor numbers;
• site layout;
• existing AED provision;
• retrieval barriers;
• potential AED locations;
• storage requirements;
• signage;
• public accessibility;
• The Circuit registration;
• inspection arrangements; and
• responsibility for ongoing management.

Download the Free Defibrillator Site Assessment Form

Where Should a Workplace AED Be Located?

A workplace defibrillator should be positioned where people can find and retrieve it quickly.

A suitable location should generally be:

• clearly visible;
• well signposted;
• accessible during operating hours;
• familiar to staff;
• appropriate for the AED’s environmental requirements; and
  free from unnecessary access barriers.

Avoid locations such as:

• locked management offices;
• unmarked cupboards;
• inaccessible back rooms;
• areas requiring several security permissions.

Indoor AED Storage
For indoor workplaces, storage options may include:

• wall brackets;
• indoor cabinets;
• alarmed cabinets; and
• carrying cases.

A visible cabinet can make the AED easier to identify in an emergency.

View AED Cabinets & Cases

Outdoor AED Storage
Outdoor AEDs require greater environmental protection.

Depending on the AED and installation location, an outdoor cabinet may need:

• weather protection;
• temperature management;
• clear external identification;
• secure mounting; and
• suitable access arrangements.

Risk Assessment Products supplies outdoor options including the DefibSafe 2 range.

Browse Outdoor AED Cabinets

Should an AED Be Locked?

For emergency equipment, access speed matters.

Where a defibrillator is intended for public access, unnecessary barriers should be avoided.

Resuscitation Council UK guidance also emphasises that AED location and accessibility should be easy and well known to staff.

The correct cabinet arrangement will depend on:

• location;
• security risk;
• accessibility;
• whether the AED is public access;
• local operational requirements.

Should AEDs Be Available to the Public?

The updated-standard guidance being published across the sector recommends that workplace AEDs should, where possible, also be made available to the public. 

For suitable workplaces, that could mean placing the AED:

• externally;
• near a public entrance;
• in an accessible reception;
• in an outdoor cabinet.

Where an AED is available publicly, it should also be registered on The Circuit.

What Is The Circuit?

The Circuit is the UK’s national defibrillator network.

Registering a public-access AED helps ambulance services identify:

• where the device is located;
• when it is available; and
• whether it is emergency ready.

This is particularly important if an employer chooses to make a workplace AED available to the wider community.

Does the New Standard Mean Existing AEDs Need Replacing?

Usually, no.

The key question is whether the existing AED remains:

• operational;
• suitable for its environment;
• appropriately positioned;
• accessible;
• visible;
• maintained.

An older but serviceable AED in the right location may still fulfil the organisation’s needs.

However, the new standard gives employers a strong reason to review placement and accessibility, even where an AED is already installed.

Could Your Workplace Need More Than One AED?

Potentially.

This is one of the biggest commercial implications of the new guidance.

A site may already “have an AED” but still fail the practical accessibility test because the AED is too far away.

Examples include:

Large Warehouses
An AED beside reception may be several minutes from a casualty at the far end of the building.

Multi-Storey Offices
Stairs, lifts and security doors can slow retrieval.

Construction Sites
Site layouts change over time, meaning AED positions may need reviewing as work progresses.

Manufacturing Sites
Production zones, restricted areas and large floorplans can all increase response times.

Multi-Building Campuses
One central AED may not provide adequate coverage across separate buildings.

This makes AED site assessment more important than simply specifying “one AED per workplace”.

Choosing an AED for the Workplace

The most appropriate AED depends on the environment.

Factors include:

• indoor or outdoor use;
• IP rating;
• operating temperature;
• durability;
• adult and paediatric functionality;
• semi-automatic or fully automatic operation;
• CPR feedback;
• electrode life;
• battery life;
• warranty;
• portability.

Risk Assessment Products allows employers to Shop AEDs by Setting, helping narrow the choice according to the workplace environment.

Semi-Automatic or Fully Automatic AED?

Both types analyse the heart rhythm automatically.

A semi-automatic AED tells the rescuer when a shock is required and asks them to press the shock button.

A fully automatic AED delivers the advised shock automatically after giving a warning to stand clear.

Neither format is universally better.

The right choice depends on the organisation and its users.

Consider a Complete Workplace AED Package

For many businesses, buying the machine alone is not the easiest route.

A complete workplace installation may also require:

• AED;
• cabinet or wall bracket;
• signage;
• rescue kit;
• spare or replacement pads;
• appropriate battery provision;
• inspection records.

Risk Assessment Products supplies Defibrillator Packages that combine key elements into one solution.

AED Signage Matters

In an emergency, people need to be able to identify the AED immediately.

Clear signage can help:

• staff;
• visitors;
• contractors;
• emergency responders
• locate the device quickly.

View AED Signs & Posters

Installing an AED Is Only the Start

Once installed, the AED needs ongoing management.

This includes checking:

• readiness indicator;
• pad expiry;
• battery status;
• cabinet condition;
• accessibility;
• signage;
• rescue accessories.

Risk Assessment Products provides a free AED Weekly Inspection Record to make this easier. RAP

Download the Free AED Weekly Inspection Record

Do AED Pads Expire?
Yes.

AED electrode pads normally have an expiry date and should be replaced before this date or after use.
Different AED models require different pads.

Shop Defibrillator Pads

Do AED Batteries Need Replacing?
Yes, batteries have a defined operating or standby life depending on the model.
Battery status should form part of regular AED checks.

Shop Defibrillator Batteries

What Should UK Employers Do Now?

The 2026 amendment provides a good reason to review workplace AED arrangements.

A practical process is:

1. Review your first-aid needs assessment.
2. Consider the number of people present, including visitors and contractors.
3. Assess whether an AED is already available.
4. Measure realistic retrieval times.
5. Review visibility and signage.
6. Check whether additional AEDs may be needed on larger sites.
7. Review indoor or outdoor storage.
8. Register public-access AEDs on The Circuit.
9. Assign responsibility for ongoing checks.
10. Keep pads and batteries within their replacement dates.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is BS 8599-1:2019+A1:2026?
It is the amended British Standard covering workplace first-aid kits and, for the first time explicitly, workplace AED provision.

Is BS 8599-1:2019+A1:2026 a law?
No. It is a British Standard rather than legislation. Employers still need to base workplace first-aid arrangements on their needs assessment. HSE

Does every workplace need a defibrillator?
There is no blanket UK law requiring every workplace to install an AED.

The amended standard substantially strengthens the case for employers to assess AED provision, particularly where five or more people are present.

What is the two-minute AED guidance?
Industry guidance interpreting BS 8599-1:2019+A1:2026 says workplace AEDs should be accessible within approximately two minutes from all areas of the premises.

Does the five-person figure include visitors?
The updated approach explicitly emphasises considering everyone likely to be present, including employees, contractors and visitors.

Do I need more than one AED?
Possibly. Large, multi-storey or multi-building sites may need additional AEDs if one device cannot be retrieved quickly enough.

Does my existing AED need replacing?
Not simply because the standard changed. Review whether it is suitable, operational, visible, accessible and correctly maintained.

Should an AED be kept in a cabinet?
The new guidance emphasises clearly displayed AEDs using suitable wall mounting or cabinet storage. The type of cabinet depends on whether the AED is indoors or outdoors.

Should a workplace AED be available to the public?
Where practicable, the amended-standard guidance encourages wider public accessibility. Safety First Aid

Should a public-access AED be registered?

Yes. Public-access AEDs should be registered on The Circuit.

Make Your Workplace AED Provision Easier to Review

BS 8599-1:2019+A1:2026 makes workplace AED provision a much more prominent part of British first-aid best practice.

For employers, the key message is not simply “buy a defibrillator”.

It is:
Assess. Locate. Make accessible. Maintain.

Risk Assessment Products can support each stage:

Assess your site
Free Defibrillator Site Assessment Form

Choose an AED
Shop AEDs by Setting

Complete the installation
AED Cabinets & Cases
AED Signs & Posters
Defibrillator Packages

Keep it emergency ready
Free AED Weekly Inspection Record
Replacement Defibrillator Pads
Replacement Defibrillator Batteries

Browse All Defibrillators & AED Equipment

You also need to think about:

• which AED suits the environment;
• where it should be positioned;
• whether it needs a cabinet;
• how quickly it can be accessed;
• who is responsible for checking it;
• when pads and batteries need replacing; and
• whether a public-access AED is registered on The Circuit.

To make this easier, Risk Assessment Products has brought together a range of free AED tools, guides and buying resources to help workplaces, schools, construction sites, community organisations and other locations plan and manage their defibrillator provision.

Start With the Setting, Not Just the AED Specification

AEDs all perform the same fundamental role, but individual models can differ considerably in areas such as:

• IP rating;
• operating temperature;
• durability;
• portability;
• CPR feedback;
• adult and paediatric functionality;
• battery life;
• electrode pad life;
• size and weight; and
• semi-automatic or fully automatic operation.

That is why the best AED for an office may not be the best choice for a construction site, school, leisure centre or outdoor public-access location.

Our Shop AEDs by Setting section allows you to begin with the environment rather than compare every defibrillator on the market.

You can browse AEDs suited to settings including:

• workplaces and offices;
• schools;
• construction sites;
• community locations;
• hospitality;
• leisure facilities;
• dentistry;
• healthcare;
• homes; and
• vehicles.

This is often the simplest way to reduce a large number of AED options to a more manageable shortlist.

Why Does the AED Setting Matter?

The environment can influence both the defibrillator and the accessories needed around it.

For example, an AED in an office may spend its life indoors at a relatively stable temperature.

An AED installed on a construction site may need to cope with:

• dust;
• moisture;
• temperature variation;
• movement between work areas; and
• a more demanding physical environment.

A community AED installed outdoors may also require a suitable weather-resistant cabinet and clear signage.

Choosing the AED and storage arrangement together can therefore be more effective than treating them as separate decisions.

Not Sure Which Defibrillator to Choose?

Before buying, useful questions include:

• Do you want a fully automatic or semi-automatic AED?
• Will the AED be used indoors or outdoors?
• Is paediatric use likely?
• Is CPR feedback important?
• How long do the pads last?
• How long does the battery last?
• Is the AED suitable for the environmental conditions?
• Will the AED be publicly accessible?
• Does it need to be portable?

Our Defibrillator FAQs answer many of the questions customers ask before and after buying an AED.

The FAQs cover areas such as:

• what a defibrillator actually does;
• sudden cardiac arrest;
• whether AED training is required;
• fully automatic vs semi-automatic AEDs;
• using AEDs on children;
• storing an AED outdoors;
• cabinet options;
• AED pad expiry;
• battery replacement;
• maintenance;
• what happens after use; and
• choosing the right defibrillator.

Free Defibrillator Site Assessment Form

Buying the AED is only useful if it can be reached quickly in an emergency.

Our Free Defibrillator Site Assessment Form helps organisations think through AED provision before installation.

The two-page assessment considers:

• site size;
• employee and visitor numbers;
• existing AED provision;
• site layout;
• areas that could slow AED retrieval;
• potential AED locations;
• indoor or outdoor storage;
• accessibility;
• signage;
• inspection arrangements; and
• responsibility for ongoing management.

This can be particularly useful for:

• workplaces;
• schools;
• warehouses;
• leisure facilities;
• construction sites;
• multi-storey buildings; and
• organisations with several separate work areas.

How Many AEDs Does a Site Need?

There is no fixed number that applies to every organisation.

The important question is whether an AED can be reached and brought to the casualty quickly.

A small office with one easily accessible floor may require a very different arrangement from:

• a large warehouse;
• a multi-building school;
• a large construction site;
• a sports venue;
• a manufacturing facility;
• a site with restricted-access areas.

This is why site layout and retrieval time should form part of the decision rather than simply using staff numbers alone.

Where Should a Defibrillator Be Located?

A good AED location should be:

• easy to see;
• clearly signposted;
• quickly accessible;
• known to staff;
• appropriate for the AED’s environmental requirements; and
• available whenever people are likely to need it.

For public-access AEDs, accessibility beyond normal business hours can also be important.

The location should not be hidden away in an office, cupboard or locked room if that would delay retrieval.

Does an AED Need a Cabinet?

Not every AED needs the same type of storage.

An indoor AED may only require:

• a wall bracket;
• indoor cabinet; or
• carrying case.

An outdoor AED may require a more substantial weather-resistant cabinet, potentially with temperature control depending on the AED and environment.

You can browse:

AED Cabinets & Cases

alongside the defibrillator itself.

Register Public-Access AEDs on The Circuit

If your AED is publicly accessible, it should be registered on The Circuit, the national defibrillator network.

The Circuit provides UK ambulance services with information about defibrillator locations and availability. It records details such as:

• location;
• brand and model;
• serial number;
• accessibility times;
• pad expiry dates;
• readiness status; and
• cabinet access information where applicable.

Registering the device helps ambulance services identify it during a cardiac arrest emergency.

The Circuit also supports ongoing management through reminders and status updates.

Already Have an AED? Keep It Emergency Ready

An AED may remain unused for a long time, but it still needs to be ready immediately when required.

Most modern AEDs perform automatic self-tests, but routine physical checks are still useful because a self-test cannot necessarily identify:

• missing pads;
• expired pads;
• damaged accessories;
• cabinet damage;
• blocked access;
• missing signage;
• changes to the AED location.

Free AED Weekly Inspection Record

Our Free AED Weekly Inspection Record provides a simple way to document routine AED checks.

It includes space to record:

• AED status indicator;
• pad condition and expiry;
• battery status;
• cabinet condition;
• access;
• signage;
• rescue accessories;
• faults;
• corrective action; and
• return-to-service checks.

A weekly visual check can be a practical routine for many workplaces and public-access AED locations, although the manufacturer’s own inspection and maintenance instructions should always be followed.

What Should You Check on an AED?

A routine visual check can include:

AED Status Indicator

Confirm the AED shows its normal ready status.

Electrode Pads

Check that:

• pads are present;
• packaging is sealed;
• they are within expiry date.

Battery

Check for low-battery or fault warnings.

Cabinet or Storage

Make sure the AED is accessible and the cabinet is not damaged.

Signage

Confirm signs remain visible and correctly positioned.

Rescue Kit

Check that any gloves, scissors, razor or CPR barrier supplied with the AED remain present.

What Happens After an AED Has Been Used?

After a deployment, the AED should be checked before returning it to service.

This will normally include:

• replacing used electrode pads;
• checking battery status;
• replacing used rescue accessories;
• cleaning the AED according to the manufacturer’s instructions;
• checking for damage;
• confirming the ready indicator;
• returning the AED to its usual location; and
• updating The Circuit if its status changed.

The Circuit recommends keeping availability and readiness information up to date so ambulance services can rely on the registered information.

Choosing Replacement Pads and Batteries

AED electrode pads and batteries are model-specific.

When replacing consumables, check:

• AED make;
• exact model;
• adult or paediatric requirements;
• pad expiry date;
• battery type;
• manufacturer compatibility.

You can browse:

Defibrillator Pads

and

Defibrillator Batteries

by compatible AED models.

One AED Journey: From Choosing to Ongoing Management

The easiest way to think about AED provision is as four stages.

1. Choose

Start with Shop AEDs by Setting and compare models suited to your environment.

2. Plan

Use the Free Defibrillator Site Assessment Form to assess location, access, storage and responsibility.

3. Install and Register

Choose suitable storage and signage and register public-access AEDs on The Circuit.

4. Maintain

Use the Free AED Weekly Inspection Record to support routine checks and keep pads, batteries and accessories up to date.

That creates a much clearer end-to-end process than treating the AED as a one-off purchase.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose the right defibrillator?

Start with the environment where the AED will be used, then compare features such as durability, IP rating, paediatric capability, CPR feedback, pad life and battery life.

Where should an AED be installed?

Choose a visible, accessible location that allows the AED to be retrieved quickly.

Does every AED need an outdoor cabinet?

No. The storage required depends on whether the AED is indoors or outdoors and on the environmental conditions.

Should a public-access AED be registered?

Yes. Public-access AEDs should be registered on The Circuit so ambulance services can see their location and availability.

How often should an AED be checked?

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions. A weekly visual check is a practical routine for many workplaces and public-access AED locations.

What should be checked?

Check the ready indicator, pads, battery, cabinet, signage, accessories and accessibility.

What happens after the AED is used?

Replace used consumables, inspect the device, confirm it is emergency ready and update its status on The Circuit where appropriate.

Free AED Tools from Risk Assessment Products

Whether you are buying your first defibrillator or responsible for an existing AED estate, you can use our free resources to make the process easier.

Choosing an AED

• Shop AEDs by Setting

Have a question?

• Defibrillator FAQs

Planning an installation?

• Free Defibrillator Site Assessment Form

Managing an existing AED?

• Free AED Weekly Inspection Record

Need replacement consumables?

• Defibrillator Pads
  
• Defibrillator Batteries

The correct aid depends on factors such as the person’s mobility, ability to bear weight, upper-body strength, balance, transfer distance and the environment in which the transfer takes place.

Risk Assessment Products supplies a range of moving and handling equipment and patient turners and transfer aids for care homes, hospitals, clinics and home-care environments.

What Is Patient Moving and Handling Equipment?

Patient moving and handling equipment is designed to help carers and healthcare professionals move or transfer a person more safely.

Depending on the user’s needs, this can include:

• mobile hoists;
• stand-and-turn aids;
• transfer platforms;
• sit-to-stand aids;
• standing supports;
• toilet stand-up aids; and
• other equipment designed to reduce the physical effort involved in moving a person.

The right equipment should be selected following an appropriate moving and handling assessment.

Why Is the Right Transfer Equipment Important?

Using unsuitable equipment can increase risk for both the person being moved and the carer.

Appropriate transfer equipment can help:

• reduce manual lifting;
• support safer movement between seated positions;
• improve stability during transfers;
• maintain dignity and confidence;
• reduce strain on carers;
• make transfers more controlled; and
• support independence where the person is still able to participate.

The aim is not simply to move someone from one place to another. It is to select equipment appropriate to the person’s abilities and the task.

Hoist or Transfer Aid: What Is the Difference?

This is one of the most important distinctions.

A patient hoist is designed to lift and transfer a person using an appropriate sling.

A transfer aid or patient turner generally requires the person to participate to some degree, for example by standing, weight-bearing or holding onto the device.

That means a transfer platform is not a substitute for a hoist when the person cannot safely bear weight or participate in the transfer.

When Might a Patient Hoist Be Appropriate?

A hoist may be considered where a person cannot safely complete a standing or pivoting transfer using a simpler aid.

The Samsoft Elite Electric Leg Opening 180kg Hoist in the RAP range is a compact mobile hoist designed for patient transfers, with electrically operated leg opening and a maximum user weight of 180 kg. (risk-assessment-products.co.uk)

A mobile hoist may be used for transfers such as:

• chair to chair;
• wheelchair to chair;
• toileting;
• other assessed patient transfers.

The correct sling and transfer method should always be selected for the individual.

When Is a Patient Turner or Transfer Platform More Suitable?

A patient turner or transfer platform may be appropriate where the person:

• can bear weight through their legs;
• has sufficient upper-body strength;
• can follow instructions;
• can maintain an appropriate level of balance; and
• is able to participate actively in the transfer.

The current RAP range includes the Orbital Transfer Platform and Orbital Transfer Platform with Knee Support. These are intended for people who are weight-bearing and have good upper-body strength, allowing controlled transfers between seated positions. (risk-assessment-products.co.uk)

Orbital Transfer Platform

The Orbital Transfer Platform is designed to assist a weight-bearing person when transferring between seated positions.

The platform pivots between the two surfaces, allowing the user and carer to complete a controlled standing transfer rather than carrying out a manual lift. (risk-assessment-products.co.uk)

Typical transfers may include:

• chair to wheelchair;
• wheelchair to chair;
• chair to toilet;
• other nearby seated surfaces.

It is not intended for a person who cannot safely weight-bear.

Orbital Transfer Platform With Knee Support

The Orbital Transfer Platform with Knee Support adds support around the lower leg/knee area.

This can provide additional stability during the standing and turning phase of the transfer.

As with the standard version, the person still needs appropriate weight-bearing ability and upper-body control. 

Motion Transfer Aid

The Motion Transfer Aid is designed to assist with standing, transferring and toileting.

It includes:

• multiple hand-grip positions;
• adjustable padded leg support;
• a low platform;
• easy-roll wheels;
• single-action braking; and
• a maximum user weight of 150 kg.

The product is designed to encourage forward knee movement during sitting and standing, helping support a more natural transfer action. 

Boost Adjustable Transfer Aid

The Boost Adjustable Transfer Aid is another option within the current range.

It is designed to support standing transfers while allowing the person to participate actively in the movement. 

This type of aid may be useful where the user needs more support than a simple transfer platform but can still contribute to the transfer.

The exact suitability should depend on the individual assessment rather than the product alone.

Toilet Stand-Up Aid

Toileting is one of the most common situations where assisted standing can be difficult.

The Toilet Stand-up Aid eTSE provides powered assistance for people who need additional help sitting down onto or standing up from the toilet.

It has a maximum capacity of 150 kg and is designed as a higher-support option than basic toilet frames or grab rails.

This type of equipment can help support dignity and independence where the person can participate but needs additional powered assistance.

How Do You Choose the Right Moving and Handling Aid?

There is no single best transfer aid.

The following factors should be considered.

Can the Person Bear Weight?

This is one of the first questions.

If the person cannot safely bear weight, a stand-and-turn platform may not be appropriate.

A hoist-based solution may be required instead.

Can They Participate in the Transfer?

Transfer aids generally rely on the person being able to:

• understand instructions;
• hold onto the aid;
• stand with support;
• maintain sufficient balance.

If they cannot actively participate, another method should be considered.

What Is Their Upper-Body Strength?

Some transfer platforms require the person to hold handles or rails during the movement.

Good grip and upper-body control can therefore be important.

What Transfer Is Being Carried Out?

The correct equipment may differ depending on whether the transfer is:

• chair to wheelchair;
• wheelchair to toilet;
• chair to chair;
• bedside transfer;
• standing from a toilet;
• another care activity.

How Much Space Is Available?

Room layout matters.

Consider:

• turning space;
• door widths;
• furniture;
• toilet areas;
• flooring;
• whether the equipment needs to be stored between uses.

What Is the User Weight?

Every product has a specified maximum user weight.

For example:

• Motion Transfer Aid – 150 kg;
• Toilet Stand-up Aid eTSE – 150 kg;
• Samsoft Elite Hoist – 180 kg. (risk-assessment-products.co.uk)

Never exceed the product’s stated safe working limit.

Why Transfer Aids Should Not Be Chosen on Price Alone

Transfer equipment needs to suit the individual user and care environment.

Two products that look similar may have different:

• user weight limits;
• support points;
• dimensions;
• braking systems;
• manoeuvrability;
• adjustment options;
• intended transfer methods.

The lowest-cost product is therefore not necessarily the most appropriate.

Moving and Handling Assessments

Equipment selection should form part of a proper moving and handling assessment.

The assessment should consider:

• the individual’s mobility;
• weight-bearing ability;
• cognitive ability;
• strength and balance;
• medical or clinical considerations;
• the task being carried out;
• the environment;
• number of carers required;
• suitable equipment.

Where there is doubt about the appropriate transfer method, seek assessment from a suitably competent healthcare or moving-and-handling professional.

Patient Independence and Transfer Equipment

One of the advantages of stand-and-turn aids is that they can allow some people to remain actively involved in their own transfer.

Rather than being fully lifted, the person may be able to:

• stand;
• grip handles;
• rotate with support;
• sit onto the new surface.

For suitable users, maintaining participation can help preserve confidence and independence.

The key phrase is for suitable users - the person’s ability should always be assessed first.

Moving and Handling Equipment for Care Homes

Care homes often need several types of transfer equipment because residents may have very different mobility levels.

A typical range might include:

• mobile hoists;
• stand-and-turn aids;
• transfer platforms;
• toileting aids.

This allows carers to choose equipment according to each resident’s moving and handling plan rather than relying on one solution for everyone.

Moving and Handling Equipment for Hospitals and Clinics

Healthcare settings may need equipment for:

• ward transfers;
• outpatient areas;
• rehabilitation;
• toileting;
• treatment areas;
• discharge and mobility assessment.

Compact mobile equipment can be particularly useful where the same device needs to move between rooms.

Transfer Aids for Home-Care Environments

Transfer aids can also be used in suitable home-care settings.

Important considerations include:

• room dimensions;
• flooring;
• doorways;
• storage;
• carer access;
• whether the aid can turn safely within the available space.

A product that works well in a large care-home room may not necessarily suit a smaller domestic bathroom or bedroom.

What Should Be Checked Before Each Use?

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the particular product.

A basic pre-use check may include:

• wheels or castors;
• brakes;
• handles;
• footplates;
• knee supports;
• adjustment mechanisms;
• obvious damage;
• cleanliness;
• any sling or accessory used with a hoist.

If equipment is damaged or not operating correctly, remove it from use until it has been assessed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a patient transfer aid?

A patient transfer aid is equipment designed to help move a person between positions or surfaces, often while allowing them to participate in the transfer.

What is a patient turner?

A patient turner is a standing transfer device that helps a weight-bearing person rotate between nearby seated positions.

Can a transfer aid replace a hoist?

Not necessarily.

Transfer aids are generally intended for people who can weight-bear and participate. A hoist may be required where a person cannot safely do this.

Who can use an Orbital Transfer Platform?

The Orbital Transfer Platform is designed for people who are weight-bearing and have good upper-body strength. 

What is the maximum weight for the Motion Transfer Aid?

The Motion Transfer Aid has a maximum user weight of 150 kg. 

What is the maximum user weight for the Samsoft Elite Hoist?

The current Samsoft Elite model listed by RAP has a maximum user weight of 180 kg. 

Are transfer aids suitable for home care?

They can be, provided the person has been appropriately assessed and the home environment has sufficient space for the equipment to be used safely.

Should staff be trained to use patient-handling equipment?

Yes. Staff should be trained and competent to use the specific equipment and transfer technique required for the individual.

Choose the Right Moving and Handling Equipment

The correct transfer equipment depends on the person, the task and the environment.

For someone who cannot safely participate in a standing transfer, a patient hoist may be the appropriate option.

For a person who can weight-bear and has sufficient strength and balance, a patient turner or transfer platform may provide a more active and controlled transfer.

For specific situations such as toileting, a dedicated stand-up aid may be more suitable.

Risk Assessment Products supplies:

• Moving & Handling Equipment
• Patient Turners & Transfer Aids
• Samsoft Elite patient hoists
• Orbital transfer platforms
• Motion Transfer Aids
• Boost Adjustable Transfer Aids
• Toilet Stand-up Aids

The key is to match the equipment to the assessed needs of the individual rather than choosing by product type alone.

Construction sites, workshops, engineering teams and maintenance departments increasingly rely on cordless tools and lithium-ion batteries throughout the working day. As the number of batteries grows, so does the need for a more organised way to store, charge and manage them.

Risk Assessment Products supplies a range of battery charging storage designed for different environments, from individual tool charging lockers through to compact lithium-ion charging cabinets, walk-in charging stores and high-capacity weatherproof site stations.

What Is Battery Charging Storage?

Battery charging storage provides a dedicated location for storing and charging batteries, cordless tools and portable electrical equipment.

Depending on the product, this can include:

• individually lockable charging compartments;
• integrated UK power sockets;
• RCD protection;
• ventilation;
• alarms;
• dedicated lithium-ion charging areas;
• weather-resistant construction;
• controlled-access storage; and
• higher-capacity charging for larger battery fleets.

The right solution depends on what you need to charge, how many users need access and where the equipment will be installed.

Why Use Dedicated Battery Charging Storage?

Charging multiple batteries across benches, desks and extension leads can quickly become difficult to manage.

A dedicated charging area can help organisations:

• keep chargers and batteries together;
• reduce clutter around work areas;
• control access to valuable tools and batteries;
• separate equipment by user or team;
• reduce ad hoc charging arrangements;
• make battery management easier; and
• provide a charging setup better suited to the working environment.

For organisations using significant numbers of lithium-ion batteries, purpose-designed charging equipment can also support a more structured approach to battery management and workplace risk control.

Which Battery Charging Storage Solution Do You Need?

The RAP range is now organised into four main subcategories:

Tools Charging Lockers

For secure compartment-based charging of tools, batteries and workplace devices.

QPod

For compact indoor lithium-ion battery charging and storage.

PowerStor

For larger walk-in lithium-ion charging requirements.

VoltHub

For high-capacity site charging, including 110V and 240V environments.

The most suitable category depends on capacity, environment, power supply and how much access control is required.

Tools Charging Lockers

Tools Charging Lockers are designed for workplaces that need to charge tools and portable equipment while keeping individual items separated and secured.

The current range includes both Armorgard PowerStation lockers and RAP-branded 4- and 6-door charging lockers.

These can be suitable for:

• construction sites;
• workshops;
• engineering departments;
• maintenance teams;
• factories;
• warehouses; and
• shared workplaces.

Armorgard PowerStation Charging Lockers

The Armorgard PowerStation range includes 6 and 12 compartment models with either key-operated or padlock-compatible locking options.

For example:

PowerStation 6 Locker Charging Unit - Key Cam Lock
PowerStation 6 Locker Charging Unit - Padlock Cam Lock
PowerStation 12 Locker Charging Unit - Key Cam Lock
PowerStation 12 Locker Charging Unit - Padlock Cam Lock

These are useful where different workers need their own secure charging compartment.

QPod: Compact Lithium-Ion Battery Charging

The Armorgard QPod QP1 is designed for organisations that need a compact indoor lithium-ion battery charging solution.

It is suitable for batteries with a combined capacity of up to 1.5 kWh and is much smaller than a walk-in charging unit.

The QPod can be useful in:

• workshops;
• maintenance departments;
• warehouses;
• engineering areas;
• facilities teams; and
• smaller commercial environments.

Its compact format makes it suitable where a dedicated charging area is required but floor space is limited.

Who Is QPod Best For?

QPod is most appropriate where:

• battery volumes are relatively modest;
• charging takes place indoors;
• a dedicated lithium-ion charging unit is preferred; and
• a full walk-in charging store would be excessive.

Browse QPod Lithium-Ion Charging

PowerStor: Walk-In Lithium-Ion Battery Charging

For larger battery fleets, the Armorgard PowerStor range provides walk-in lithium-ion charging and storage.

The current RAP range includes:

• PowerStor PWR1
• PowerStor PWR1-LS with lockable shelves
• PowerStor PWR2-LS with lockable shelves
• PowerStor PWR2

The PWR1 is a walk-in lithium-ion battery charging unit with 32 charging sockets and integrated systems designed for larger on-site battery fleets.

PowerStor PWR2

The PWR2 provides a deeper two-metre configuration while retaining 32 RCD-protected charging points.

PowerStor with Lockable Shelves

The PWR1-LS and PWR2-LS versions add lockable internal shelving.

This can help where:

• multiple contractors share the same charging area;
• equipment needs to be separated by team;
• higher-value chargers need restricted access; or
• site managers want greater accountability.

Who Is PowerStor Best For?

PowerStor is most relevant to:

• major construction projects;
• engineering operations;
• infrastructure sites;
• plant depots;
• large maintenance facilities; and
• organisations operating substantial cordless-tool fleets.

Browse PowerStor Lithium-Ion Charging Units

VoltHub: High-Capacity Site Charging

The VoltHub range is designed for sites that need high-capacity battery charging in more demanding environments.

RAP currently offers 16-locker VoltHub charging stations in 110V and 240V versions.

VoltHub 110V

The VoltHub VH16-110 is designed around 110V site power and is particularly relevant to construction environments.

Its specification includes:

• 16 individual lockers;
• RCD-protected charging;
• IP55-rated construction;
• audible and visual alarms;
• site mobility features; and
• a weather-resistant enclosure.

VoltHub 240V

The VoltHub VH16-240 provides the same type of high-capacity approach for 240V environments.

It is suited to industrial, commercial and construction applications where secure charging for larger numbers of batteries is required.

Who Is VoltHub Best For?

VoltHub may be appropriate for:

• construction sites;
• infrastructure projects;
• plant and equipment operations;
• industrial sites;
• renewable-energy projects;
• facilities management teams; and
• locations where charging takes place outside a conventional workshop.

Browse VoltHub Battery Charging Stations

What Is the Difference Between the Four Categories?

Battery Charging Storage for Construction Sites

Construction sites are one of the strongest applications for dedicated charging equipment.

Modern sites often rely heavily on cordless equipment used by:

• electricians;
• plumbers;
• carpenters;
• engineers;
• fit-out teams;
• maintenance contractors; and
• groundworkers.

For smaller teams, Tools Charging Lockers may provide enough capacity.

For larger battery fleets, PowerStor or VoltHub may be more appropriate.

Where site power is 110V, the VoltHub 110V model is specifically designed for that type of environment.

Battery Charging Storage for Workshops and Maintenance Teams

Indoor workshops may have very different requirements from a major construction site.

For secure individual charging, Tools Charging Lockers may be the best fit.

Where lithium-ion battery management is the primary concern, QPod provides a more specialist compact option.

The deciding factor is whether the requirement is mainly:

secure compartment charging

or

dedicated lithium-ion battery charging and storage.

What Should You Consider Before Buying?

How Many Batteries or Tools Need Charging?

A team of four users has a very different requirement from a site running dozens of battery-powered tools.

Indoor or Outdoor Use?

Some products are designed primarily for indoor environments, while others are better suited to demanding site conditions.

QPod, for example, is an indoor charging unit, while VoltHub is designed for more exposed site use.

What Voltage Is Available?

Check whether your site uses:

• standard UK 240V;
• 110V site power; or
• standard 13A sockets.

The charging equipment must match the available power supply.

Do Users Need Separate Lockers?

If multiple workers or contractors share the same charging area, individual lockers may provide better control.

How Large Is the Battery Fleet?

Small teams may only need a compact cabinet or locker bank.

Larger operations may require a high-capacity or walk-in unit.

Does the Equipment Need to Move?

Some construction environments need charging stations that can be repositioned as a project develops.

This can make forklift or crane-handling features important.

Are All Battery Charging Lockers the Same?

No.

This distinction is important.

A standard charging locker may primarily provide:

• secure compartments;
• individual sockets;
• locking doors; and
• organised charging.

Specialist lithium-ion charging products may incorporate additional features specifically intended for battery charging risk management.

Do not assume every locker with a power socket offers the same specification.

Always check the individual product details.

Are Battery Charging Lockers Fireproof?

Not necessarily.

“Battery charging locker” is a broad term and does not automatically mean fire-rated or fireproof.

Some products are designed primarily to provide secure charging, while specialist products such as QPod, PowerStor and VoltHub incorporate features intended specifically for lithium-ion battery charging environments.

Choose equipment according to the product specification and your own risk assessment rather than relying on generic terminology.

Why Separate Tool Charging from General Storage?

A charging locker is not simply a standard locker with power added.

Purpose-designed charging storage can help:

• keep cables controlled;
• separate users;
• organise chargers;
• reduce improvised charging arrangements;
• keep valuable equipment secured; and
• provide a defined charging area.

This can be particularly useful on shared sites where many contractors use battery-powered equipment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a tool charging locker?

A tool charging locker is a powered storage unit that allows tools, batteries or portable devices to be charged inside individual secure compartments.

What is the best charging storage for a small workshop?

For individual secure charging, a Tools Charging Locker may be suitable. Where dedicated lithium-ion battery charging is the priority, QPod may be more appropriate.

What is the difference between QPod and PowerStor?

QPod is a compact indoor lithium-ion charging unit. PowerStor is a much larger walk-in charging system designed for high-capacity battery fleets.

What is VoltHub used for?

VoltHub is a high-capacity battery charging station available in 110V and 240V versions for construction and industrial environments.

Are there charging lockers with separate compartments?

Yes. RAP offers multiple locker-based solutions including 4, 6 and 12 compartment configurations.

How many charging points does PowerStor have?

Current PWR1 and PWR2 PowerStor models provide 32 charging sockets.

Is VoltHub available in 110V?

Yes. RAP currently supplies both 110V and 240V VoltHub 16-locker charging stations.

Choose the Right Battery Charging Storage

The correct charging solution depends on the size and environment of your operation.

Choose Tools Charging Lockers where individual users need secure powered compartments.

Choose QPod where you need compact indoor lithium-ion battery charging.

Choose PowerStor where larger battery fleets require high-capacity walk-in charging.

Choose VoltHub for high-capacity construction and industrial charging in 110V or 240V environments.

Risk Assessment Products supplies:

• Tools Charging Lockers
• QPod Lithium-Ion Charging Units
• PowerStor Battery Charging Units
• VoltHub Charging Stations

Browse All Battery Charging Storage

For larger sites, assess the complete charging process before purchasing: what is being charged, where charging takes place, who needs access and how many batteries need to be managed at the same time.

Resources that looked neatly organised before pupils returned can quickly become harder to manage once lessons are in full flow. Art materials, science equipment, books, stationery, STEAM resources and project materials all need to be easy to find, simple to move and quick to put away.

For schools looking to improve classroom organisation, mobile educational storage trolleys can provide a flexible alternative to fixed cupboards and shelving.

Risk Assessment Products supplies a growing range of educational storage trolleys designed for classrooms, STEAM activities, practical learning and mobile teaching.

Why Classroom Storage Matters

Good classroom storage is about more than keeping a room tidy.

Well-organised resources can help teachers:

• find equipment more quickly;
• reduce lesson setup time;
• move resources between teaching areas;
• make commonly used materials easier for pupils to access;
• keep different subjects or projects separated;
• make better use of limited classroom space; and
• return the classroom to order more quickly after practical activities.

This can be particularly useful in busy primary schools, secondary schools, colleges and specialist learning environments where the same room may be used for several different activities throughout the day.

Why Choose a Mobile Storage Trolley?

A fixed cupboard is useful when resources always stay in one place.

A mobile trolley gives schools more flexibility.

Depending on the model, a trolley can be moved:

• between classrooms;
• from a storage area into the teaching space;
• alongside group tables;
• between indoor learning zones;
• into practical or project areas; and
• wherever resources are needed during a lesson.

This can reduce the need for pupils or teachers to repeatedly cross the classroom to collect equipment.

Many educational trolleys also use removable trays, allowing resources to be grouped by subject, activity or class.

Educational Storage Trolleys for Different Classroom Needs

There is no single trolley configuration that suits every school.

The right choice depends on what needs to be stored and how the trolley will be used.

Mobile Teaching Stations

The Gratnells MyBASE® Mobile Teaching Trolley is designed as a mobile teaching and storage station for flexible classrooms.

Its combination of storage and a usable work surface means it can support teachers who need to move resources around the classroom rather than work from one fixed teaching position.

The Gratnells MyBASE®+ Mobile Teaching Trolley adds a lockable storage cabinet alongside integrated tray storage, making it suitable where teachers need both mobile organisation and more secure storage.

These types of units may be particularly useful for:

• flexible teaching spaces;
• intervention work;
• small-group learning;
• classrooms with limited fixed storage;
• teachers who move between rooms; and
• practical lessons requiring resources close at hand.

Tray Storage for Everyday Classroom Resources

For schools that mainly need organised tray storage, the Callero Plus range provides mobile classroom storage in different capacities.

The Callero Plus Double Trolley – 16 Shallow Trays is designed as a lightweight mobile storage system for keeping classroom resources organised and easy to move.

For larger quantities of resources, the Callero Plus Treble Trolley – 16 Shallow & 4 Deep Trays combines shallow and deep storage, making it easier to separate smaller classroom items from bulkier equipment.

Shallow trays can work well for items such as:

• stationery;
• books and worksheets;
• art materials;
• maths resources;
• small construction components; and
• individual pupil or group resources.

Deep trays can be useful for:

• larger craft supplies;
• equipment sets;
• project materials;
• containers;
• larger manipulatives; and
• bulkier teaching resources.

Storage Trolleys for STEAM Learning

Practical science, technology, engineering, art and maths activities can create particular storage challenges because they often involve a wide variety of components and equipment.

The Callero STEAM Double Trolley – 8 Shallow & 4 Deep Trays is a compact mobile storage and activity station designed specifically for STEAM, science, design technology, art and project-based learning.

For larger departments or classrooms, the Callero STEAM Treble Trolley – 16 Shallow & 4 Deep Trays provides increased capacity while retaining the same mobile format.

These configurations can help schools separate:

• electronics and components;
• tools;
• craft materials;
• robotics equipment;
• building materials;
• science resources; and
• individual project kits.

Creating a Mobile MakerSpace

MakerSpace learning encourages pupils to design, build, experiment and solve problems.

The challenge is that these activities can require a large number of small parts alongside bulkier resources.

The Callero MakerSpace Trolley – 3 Deep & 12 Shallow Trays is designed as a mobile classroom storage and activity station for STEAM, design technology, science, art and project-based learning.

Its mix of shallow and deep trays can make it easier to organise components while still providing room for larger materials.

A mobile MakerSpace trolley can also allow schools to bring practical resources into a normal classroom without permanently dedicating the entire room to that activity.

What Should Schools Look for When Choosing a Storage Trolley?

Before selecting a trolley, consider how it will actually be used.

Tray Capacity

Think about the number and size of resources being stored.

A larger number of shallow trays may suit lots of smaller items, while deep trays are better for larger or irregularly shaped equipment.

Mobility

Consider whether the trolley will remain in one classroom or regularly move between different teaching spaces.

Classroom Space

A compact double trolley may suit smaller rooms, while a treble trolley can provide greater capacity where floor space allows.

Subject Area

General classroom resources may only need simple tray organisation.

Science, STEAM, art and design technology may benefit from mixed-depth trays and specialist activity-trolley configurations.

Secure Storage

Where equipment, teacher resources or higher-value items need controlled access, a model with lockable storage may be more appropriate.

Accessibility

Resources should be easy for the intended users to access without creating clutter or unnecessary movement around the classroom.

Can Storage Trolleys Help With Classroom Flexibility?

Yes.

Modern teaching spaces increasingly need to support different activities rather than one fixed classroom layout.

A mobile trolley can move with the lesson.

For example, the same resources can be positioned:

• beside a teacher for whole-class instruction;
• next to a group table for practical work;
• at the edge of the classroom when not required; or
• moved into another room for a different class.

This can be especially useful where classrooms are used by more than one teacher or subject group.

Organisation by Colour

Tray-based storage also allows schools to use colour as part of their organisation system.

Different coloured trays can be allocated to:

• individual classes;
• subjects;
• year groups;
• activity types;
• practical equipment; or
• different groups within the same classroom.

A simple visual system can make it easier for pupils and staff to return resources to the correct place.

Educational Storage Beyond the Classroom

Although these trolleys are designed with education in mind, mobile storage can also be useful elsewhere within a school.

Potential locations include:

• science preparation areas;
• art departments;
• design and technology rooms;
• libraries;
• SEN learning spaces;
• intervention rooms;
• staff resource areas;
• after-school clubs; and
• shared teaching spaces.

Is It Worth Reviewing Classroom Storage After the Start of Term?

September is actually a good time to review storage.

Before term starts, it can be difficult to predict how resources will be used in practice.

Once lessons are underway, schools can see:

• which resources are constantly being moved;
• which cupboards are overcrowded;
• where lesson preparation takes too long;
• where pupils struggle to find or return equipment; and
• which subject areas need additional storage.

That makes the first few weeks of term a sensible time to identify where mobile storage could make day-to-day teaching easier.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an educational storage trolley?

An educational storage trolley is a mobile storage unit designed to organise and move classroom resources. Many models use removable trays and some also include work surfaces or lockable storage.

What are Gratnells trays used for?

Gratnells trays are widely used in educational storage systems for organising classroom and practical-learning resources. Different tray depths allow smaller and larger items to be stored separately.

Are storage trolleys suitable for STEAM subjects?

Yes. Specialist STEAM and MakerSpace trolleys are designed to store resources used in science, technology, engineering, art, maths and project-based learning.

What is the difference between shallow and deep trays?

Shallow trays are generally better suited to smaller resources, while deep trays provide more capacity for bulkier items and larger equipment.

Can classroom storage trolleys be moved between rooms?

Yes. Mobile educational trolleys are specifically designed to make resources easier to move around learning spaces.

Which trolley is best for a small classroom?

That depends on the resources being stored, but a compact double trolley may be more suitable where floor space is limited.

Which trolley is best for STEAM or MakerSpace learning?

Mixed-depth models such as Callero STEAM and MakerSpace trolleys are designed around practical and project-based learning, with different tray sizes for organising varied resources.

Get the Classroom Organised for the New School Year

The start of a new academic year is an ideal opportunity to look at what is working — and what is not — in the classroom.

If resources are difficult to organise, awkward to move or taking up too much fixed storage space, a mobile educational trolley can provide a more flexible solution.

Risk Assessment Products currently supplies educational storage solutions including:

Gratnells MyBASE® Mobile Teaching Trolley
Gratnells MyBASE®+ Mobile Teaching Trolley
Callero Plus Double Trolley
Callero Plus Treble Trolley
Callero STEAM Double Trolley
Callero STEAM Treble Trolley
Callero MakerSpace Trolley

Browse Educational Storage Trolleys

Severe bleeding can become critical very quickly, so having the right equipment available — and knowing where it is — can be an important part of workplace, venue and public-access first-aid planning.

Current Resuscitation Council UK first-aid guidance recommends an escalating approach to life-threatening bleeding: call 999, apply firm direct pressure, use a suitable dressing, and apply a tourniquet as soon as possible for life-threatening limb bleeding that is not controlled by direct pressure.

Risk Assessment Products supplies a range of Bleed Control & Trauma equipment including bleed control kits, Public Access Trauma (PAcT) kits, tourniquets, signs and dedicated cabinets.

What Is a Bleed Control Kit?

A bleed control kit contains equipment intended to help control serious bleeding until professional medical help arrives.

The exact contents vary between products, but bleed control equipment may include items such as:

• tourniquets;
• trauma dressings;
• gloves;
• scissors;
• wound dressings;
• CPR face shields; and
• instructions or aide-mémoires.

The equipment required should reflect the risks of the location and the organisation’s first-aid needs assessment.

What Is Life-Threatening Bleeding?

Life-threatening bleeding is severe blood loss that requires immediate action.

Warning signs may include:

• heavy or uncontrolled bleeding;
• blood flowing continuously or spurting from a wound;
• bleeding that does not stop with firm pressure;
• severe limb injuries;
• partial or complete amputation; or
• signs that the casualty is becoming pale, weak, confused or unresponsive.

If severe bleeding is suspected, call 999 immediately.

Resuscitation Council UK recommends firm direct pressure to the bleeding site, followed where appropriate by wound dressings and a tourniquet for life-threatening bleeding from a limb that is not controlled with direct pressure.

What Is a Tourniquet Used For?

A tourniquet is used to control life-threatening bleeding from an arm or leg.

It is not intended for routine minor bleeding.

Current UK first-aid guidance states that, for life-threatening extremity bleeding that is not controlled by direct manual pressure, a tourniquet should be applied as soon as possible. It should normally be positioned 5-7 cm above the injury and not over a joint, tightened until the bleeding stops, and the application time should be recorded. Once applied, it should not be released by a first aider.

The RAP range includes the TMT Tourniquet Civilian Model (Orange), a high-visibility windlass tourniquet intended for the control of life-threatening limb bleeding.

What Is a Public Access Trauma Kit?

A Public Access Trauma (PAcT) First Aid Kit is intended for publicly accessible locations where members of the public may need to respond to serious injuries before emergency services arrive.

ProtectUK states that PAcT kits are designed for use by any person, regardless of their level of training, and are intended to support the treatment of life-threatening injuries.

ProtectUK’s current PAcT standard specifies contents including:

• four pairs of disposable gloves;
• disposable eye protection;
• disposable face masks;
• two Tuff-Cut scissors;
• four large trauma wound dressings;
• two triangular bandages;
• two tourniquets;
• two CPR face shields;
• two permanent marker pens; and
• two tourniquet/application information aids.

Risk Assessment Products supplies a Public Access Trauma (PAcT) First Aid Kit which includes two RapidStop tourniquets and is designed for fast response to serious bleeding emergencies.

Where Should PAcT Kits Be Located?

Accessibility is critical.

ProtectUK says PAcT kits should be placed in publicly accessible locations where people can reach them quickly. Suggested areas may include:

• main entrances;
• receptions;
• fire exits;
• refuge areas;
• canteens;
• muster points;
• ticket halls;
• platforms;
• loading bays; and
• vehicles.

The most appropriate location should be determined through a risk-based assessment, taking account of the size, layout and use of the premises.

Kits should also be clearly identifiable.

ProtectUK recommends use of the agreed Public Access Trauma First Aid Kit sign so that emergency equipment can be distinguished quickly from ordinary first-aid provision.

Risk Assessment Products supplies a Public Access Trauma (PAcT) Kit Sign designed to support clear identification of PAcT equipment.

Do Workplaces Need Bleed Control Kits?

There is no blanket UK rule requiring every workplace to have a dedicated bleed control kit.

Under the Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981, employers must provide adequate and appropriate first-aid equipment, facilities and personnel based on their circumstances.

ProtectUK recommends that organisations assess whether their existing first-aid arrangements are capable of dealing with immediate life-threatening injuries, including major bleeding.

A bleed control or trauma kit may be particularly relevant for locations such as:

• manufacturing and engineering sites;
• warehouses;
• construction environments;
• transport hubs;
• shopping centres;
• entertainment venues;
• schools and colleges;
• sports facilities;
• hospitality venues;
• public buildings; and
• locations with significant public footfall.

The need should always come from the organisation’s first-aid needs assessment and risk profile.

Bleed Control Kit vs Standard First Aid Kit

A standard workplace first aid kit is designed to deal with a broad range of common injuries.

A bleed control kit is more specialised.

It focuses on equipment that may be required where severe blood loss poses an immediate threat to life.

Depending on the risks involved, an organisation may therefore decide that a trauma or bleed control kit should supplement, rather than replace, its normal workplace first-aid provision.

ProtectUK specifically describes PAcT kits as a way of enhancing an organisation’s existing first-aid preparedness.

RapidStop Bleed Control Kit

The RapidStop Bleed Control Kit - Standard is a compact emergency kit intended for serious bleeding incidents.

It includes a RapidStop tourniquet for the control of life-threatening limb bleeding and is supplied in a robust weather-resistant case for protection and accessibility.

This type of compact kit can be useful where organisations want bleed-control equipment that can be:

• stored at a first-aid point;
• mounted in a visible location;
• carried to an incident; or
• positioned alongside other emergency equipment.

View Bleed Control Kits

Why Use a Bleed Control Cabinet?

A cabinet can make emergency equipment easier to locate while also helping protect it from damage, interference or environmental exposure.

RAP currently supplies several dedicated options, including:

• Bleed Control Cabinet – Unlocked – Red;
• Bleed Control Cabinet – Locked – Red;
• DefibSafe 2 Outdoor Defibrillator & Bleed Kit Cabinet – Locked.

The choice between locked and unlocked storage should balance security against rapid accessibility.

For publicly accessible emergency equipment, unnecessary delays should be avoided. ProtectUK guidance emphasises that first-aid provisions should be clearly visible and readily accessible.

Combined AED and Bleed Control Stations

For some locations, it can make sense to position bleed control equipment alongside an automated external defibrillator.

The emergencies are different:

• an AED is used during suspected cardiac arrest;
• a bleed control kit is used for severe traumatic bleeding.

But both are time-critical emergency responses.

RAP supplies the DefibSafe 2 Outdoor Defibrillator & Bleed Kit Cabinet, which provides heated outdoor storage for both an AED and bleed control equipment in a single emergency-response location.

There is also a Free Standing AED and Bleed Kit Mount for sites where wall mounting is not practical.

This type of combined installation may be particularly relevant for:

• sports grounds;
• schools;
• industrial estates;
• transport sites;
• community centres;
• large workplaces; and
• public-access areas.

How Should Bleed Control Equipment Be Managed?

Installing a kit is only part of the process.

Organisations should also have a plan for:

• checking contents regularly;
• monitoring expiry dates;
• replacing used or damaged items;
• ensuring seals and packaging remain intact;
• maintaining clear signage;
• keeping access routes unobstructed;
• making staff aware of the kit location; and
• incorporating the kit into emergency response planning.

ProtectUK specifically recommends that PAcT kits form part of an organisation’s first-aid needs assessment and response plan, with clear responsibility for their location and management.

Do Staff Need Training to Use a Bleed Control Kit?

PAcT kits are specifically intended so that they can be used by members of the public regardless of previous training.

However, training and familiarisation can still be valuable.

Resuscitation Council UK notes as a general principle that people should use specialist equipment within their competence and training, and ProtectUK recommends that organisations consider additional awareness training for staff responsible for emergency response.

Training may help staff become familiar with:

• recognising life-threatening bleeding;
• applying direct pressure;
• using trauma dressings;
• applying a tourniquet;
• calling 999;
• locating emergency equipment; and
• integrating bleed control into the wider emergency response.

What Should You Look for When Choosing a Bleed Control Kit?

When comparing kits, consider:

Intended Setting

Is the kit for a workplace, vehicle, public venue or outdoor installation?

Contents

Check whether the kit includes appropriate trauma dressings, tourniquets, PPE and other equipment for the risks identified.

Accessibility

Can somebody retrieve it quickly in an emergency?

Visibility

Is it clearly labelled and signposted?

Storage

Does it need a cabinet, wall bracket or weather-resistant enclosure?

Number of Casualties

A larger public-access location may require equipment capable of supporting more than one casualty.

Ongoing Maintenance

Make sure replacement consumables can be sourced and expiry dates can be managed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a bleed control kit?

A bleed control kit contains equipment intended to help manage serious or life-threatening bleeding before professional medical help arrives.

Are bleed control kits a legal requirement?

Not for every UK workplace. Employers must provide adequate and appropriate first-aid arrangements based on their first-aid needs assessment. A dedicated bleed control kit may be appropriate where the identified risks justify one.

What is a PAcT kit?

PAcT stands for Public Access Trauma. These kits are designed for publicly accessible locations and support the treatment of immediate life-threatening injuries. ProtectUK states that they can be used by any person, regardless of training.

What is a tourniquet used for?

A tourniquet is used for life-threatening bleeding from an arm or leg when direct pressure has not controlled the bleeding.

Should a bleed kit be locked?

There is no one answer for every site. Security has to be balanced against emergency accessibility. Public-access provisions should be easy to identify and retrieve without unnecessary delay.

Can a bleed control kit replace a normal first aid kit?

Usually not. Bleed control kits are specialist emergency equipment intended to supplement wider first-aid provision rather than replace it.

Where should a trauma kit be installed?

The location should follow a risk assessment. Public-facing sites should prioritise visibility, accessibility and locations people can reach quickly during an emergency.

Prepare for Serious Bleeding Emergencies

Major bleeding is time-critical.

Effective emergency planning means having suitable equipment available, making sure people can find it quickly and ensuring first-aid arrangements reflect the actual risks of the site.

Risk Assessment Products supplies:

• Bleed Control Kits;
• Public Access Trauma Kits;
• Tourniquets;
• Bleed Control Cabinets;
• PAcT Kit Signage; and
• combined AED and bleed-control storage solutions.

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