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.

Browse Bleed Control & Trauma Equipment

Do your employees need somewhere for coats and bags? Are you issuing PPE or workwear? Do several people need smaller individual compartments? Are you trying to maximise storage in a restricted space? Or do tools and batteries need secure storage while they are being charged?

Choosing the right locker starts with what needs to be stored, who needs access and where the lockers will be installed.

At Risk Assessment Products, our workplace locker range includes solutions for personal belongings, uniforms, PPE, tools, workwear and shared storage.

Looking for lockers now? Browse our complete Workplace Lockers range.

Which Type of Locker Is Right for Your Organisation?

Here is how the different options compare.

Compartment Lockers - More Users in Less Floor Space

Best for: offices, factories, warehouses, leisure facilities, healthcare workplaces and shared staff areas.

Compartment lockers divide the available storage space into multiple individually accessible sections.

They are particularly useful where every user needs secure personal storage but does not require a full-height locker.

Typical uses include storing:

• Bags and personal belongings
• Phones and valuables
• Small pieces of work equipment
• Staff possessions during a shift
• Visitor or temporary worker belongings

For workplaces with large numbers of employees, multi-compartment storage can also make much better use of the available floor space.

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Garment Lockers - Storage for Clothing and Uniforms

Best for: manufacturing, healthcare, hospitality, food production, engineering and businesses supplying employee uniforms.

Garment lockers are designed around clothing rather than simply providing a secure box.

They can be particularly useful where employees need to store work clothing, uniforms or personal garments during their shift.

Specialist garment dispensing and service lockers can also support organisations operating managed workwear or laundry systems.

This makes them relevant to businesses where uniform control and clothing distribution form part of day-to-day operations.

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Personal Effects Lockers - Secure Storage for Smaller Belongings

Not every employee needs a full-size locker.

For workplaces where staff mainly need somewhere for phones, wallets, keys and other personal possessions, a personal effects locker can provide a more space-efficient alternative.

Risk Assessment Products offers both:

Floor-Standing Personal Effects Lockers

Suitable where larger banks of personal storage are required and sufficient floor space is available.

Shop Floor-Standing Personal Effects Lockers

Wall-Mountable Personal Effects Lockers

A useful option where floor space is limited or personal storage needs to be positioned conveniently within an existing workplace.

They can work particularly well in offices, staff rooms, reception areas and other locations where small-item storage is required without installing conventional full-height lockers.

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School Lockers - Storage Designed Around Education

Best for: secondary schools, colleges, academies, universities and other educational facilities.

School lockers provide pupils and students with dedicated storage for belongings during the day and can help reduce the amount of equipment that has to be carried between lessons.

When specifying lockers for an education environment, consider:

• Number of students requiring storage
• Available corridor or changing-room space
• Required compartment size
• Locker configuration
• Locking method
• Colour requirements
• How banks of lockers will fit within the available area.

For larger projects, planning the required number and configuration before ordering can make installation considerably easier.

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Space Saving Lockers - When Floor Space Is at a Premium

Best for: changing rooms, leisure centres, factories, healthcare environments and compact staff facilities.

Providing every employee with adequate storage can become difficult when floor space is limited.

Space saving lockers are designed to increase the number of people who can be provided with storage within the available footprint.

They are particularly worth considering when planning or refurbishing:

• Staff changing rooms
• Factory changing facilities
• Gyms and leisure facilities
• Healthcare staff areas
• Warehouses
• Compact welfare facilities.

Rather than automatically choosing conventional single-door lockers, compare how many users different locker configurations can accommodate within the same available wall space.

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Tool Charging Lockers - Secure Storage While Equipment Charges

Best for: construction, engineering, maintenance, manufacturing, facilities management and workshops.

Cordless tools and portable equipment have created a different workplace storage requirement: equipment may need secure storage and access to power at the same time.

Tool charging lockers combine individual storage compartments with electrical charging provision.

They can be particularly useful for organisations managing multiple cordless tools, batteries or portable workplace devices across employees or shifts.

Instead of leaving equipment unsecured around a workshop or charging area, a dedicated charging locker can help bring tool storage and charging together in one location.

For facilities managers, contractors and engineering businesses, this is one of the more specialist locker categories worth considering.

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Workwear Lockers - Organise Employee Clothing

Best for: factories, manufacturing, engineering, warehousing, healthcare and businesses with issued work clothing.

Where employees change into work clothing on site, conventional personal storage may not always be the best solution.

Workwear lockers are intended for environments where uniforms, protective clothing and employees' own clothes need to be organised within changing facilities.

Before ordering, think about:

• How much clothing each employee needs to store
• Whether clean and used clothing need to be managed differently
• Whether employees need hanging space
• The number of employees per shift
• Available changing-room space.

Choosing the correct configuration at the outset can produce a much more practical changing area.

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PPE Lockers - Dedicated Storage for Protective Equipment

Best for: manufacturing, construction, engineering, utilities, warehouses, workshops and industrial sites.

Personal protective equipment needs somewhere appropriate to be stored when it is not being worn.

PPE lockers provide dedicated workplace storage for equipment such as protective clothing and other issued PPE.

They can be particularly relevant where employers provide equipment to individual employees or need designated storage locations within changing rooms and operational areas.

Different compartment configurations allow businesses to choose between larger individual storage areas and multiple smaller sections depending on the equipment being issued.

Shop PPE Lockers

Who Typically Buys Workplace Lockers?

Locker purchasing often forms part of a wider facilities, refurbishment, expansion or workplace safety project.

Typical buyers include:

• Facilities managers upgrading staff welfare or changing facilities
• Estates managers responsible for multiple buildings
• School business managers and education procurement teams
• Health and safety managers organising PPE and workwear
• Manufacturing and operations managers equipping factories and production facilities
• Warehouse managers providing employee and PPE storage
• Construction companies needing storage for PPE, tools and equipment
• Leisure and hospitality operators providing changing and staff facilities
• Procurement teams sourcing workplace equipment across multiple sites
• Fit-out and refurbishment contractors specifying storage as part of larger projects

The right choice therefore depends as much on the environment and number of users as it does on the locker itself.

Five Questions to Answer Before Ordering Lockers

Before comparing products, establish:

1. What will actually be stored?

A phone and wallet require very different storage from a coat, hard hat or power tool.

2. How many people need a locker?

Consider total headcount as well as shift patterns. Not every organisation needs one full-size locker for every employee.

3. How much space is available?

Measure the proposed location carefully and consider both width and depth as well as circulation space around the lockers.

4. Does the application require a specialist locker?

PPE, workwear, garment management and tool charging can all justify choosing a purpose-designed solution rather than a standard locker.

5. Is this a single purchase or part of a larger project?

For changing rooms, new sites, school refurbishments and factory projects, calculate the complete requirement before purchasing individual units. This makes it easier to achieve a consistent layout and specification.

Find the Right Workplace Lockers

There is no single locker configuration that is right for every organisation.

The best solution is the one that gives users enough storage without wasting valuable floor space or paying for capacity that is not required.

Risk Assessment Products supplies workplace lockers for organisations ranging from schools and offices to factories, warehouses, construction businesses and commercial facilities.

Browse our complete range of Workplace Lockers and choose from compartment, garment, personal effects, school, space saving, tool charging, workwear and PPE storage solutions.

Survival from an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest depends on several linked actions, including recognising cardiac arrest, calling 999, starting CPR, using a defibrillator as quickly as possible and receiving subsequent medical treatment.

However, UK evidence is very clear that early CPR and early use of an automated external defibrillator (AED) can substantially improve the chance of survival.

Resuscitation Council UK states that bystander CPR combined with use of an AED can increase the chance of surviving an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest by two to four times.

How Many Cardiac Arrests Occur in the UK Each Year?

Current Resuscitation Council UK figures estimate that approximately:

• 115,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests are reported to UK ambulance services each year;
• resuscitation is attempted in around 43,000 cases;
• overall 30-day survival is approximately 9–10%; and
• public-access AED use remains below 10% of cases.

Cardiac arrest outcomes vary across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

These figures demonstrate both the scale of the problem and the opportunity to improve survival through rapid CPR and defibrillation.

How Many Lives Were Saved in England?

The Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest Outcomes (OHCAO) Registry provides detailed reporting for England.

Its 2024 overview recorded 2,738 people surviving to 30 days in the reported cohort.

The same report showed:

• 29,241 resuscitation attempts were recorded;
• 7,905 hearts were successfully restarted by ambulance service personnel;
• overall 30-day survival was 9.5%;
• survival in the Utstein comparator group was 29.0%; and
• 27.0% of patients were admitted to hospital with return of spontaneous circulation.

The report describes the 2,738 survivors as “lives saved”, but this should not be interpreted as 2,738 people saved specifically by public-access defibrillators.

Survival is the result of the complete chain of survival, including CPR, defibrillation, ambulance response and hospital care.

Why Can't We Say Exactly How Many People AEDs Save?

A cardiac arrest rarely involves just one intervention.

Someone may survive because:

1. a bystander recognised cardiac arrest;
2. 999 was called quickly;
3. CPR was started immediately;
4. an AED was retrieved;
5. the AED delivered an appropriate shock;
6. ambulance clinicians continued resuscitation; and
7. the patient received further treatment in hospital.

It is therefore difficult to separate the effect of the AED from every other part of the emergency response.

What research can show is that people have a much better chance of survival when CPR and defibrillation happen early.

How Much Difference Does an AED Make?

Resuscitation Council UK states that:

Bystander CPR and use of an AED increase the chance of survival from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest by two to four times.

That is one of the clearest reasons for making AEDs readily available in workplaces, schools, sports venues and community locations.

The time between collapse and defibrillation is particularly important when the person has a shockable heart rhythm.

Why Is Early Defibrillation So Important?

Some cardiac arrests begin with an electrical heart rhythm that can be treated using a defibrillator.

The sooner an appropriate shock is delivered, the greater the opportunity for successful resuscitation.

Resuscitation Council UK guidance highlights that the best chance of successful resuscitation occurs when CPR and defibrillation are delivered with minimum delay. Survival rates above 70% have been reported in some situations when defibrillation occurs within three minutes of collapse.

This does not mean every person shocked within three minutes will survive.

The outcome depends on factors including:

• the cause of the cardiac arrest;
• whether the collapse was witnessed;
• the person's initial heart rhythm;
• how quickly CPR begins;
• how quickly an AED is used; and
• the subsequent medical response.

What Does a Defibrillator Actually Do?

An automated external defibrillator analyses the electrical rhythm of the heart.

If it detects a rhythm suitable for defibrillation, the AED will either:

• advise the rescuer to deliver a shock; or
• deliver the shock automatically on a fully automatic model.

A defibrillator does not simply restart every stopped heart.

It treats specific abnormal electrical rhythms by delivering a controlled electrical shock.

You can read more in our guide:

Does a Defibrillator Restart a Stopped Heart?

Can Anyone Use a Defibrillator?

Yes.

Resuscitation Council UK states that anyone can use an AED.

Modern public-access defibrillators are designed to guide the rescuer with spoken and/or visual instructions.

You do not need to identify the heart rhythm yourself.

The AED does this automatically and determines whether a shock is appropriate.

Training can help increase confidence, but lack of previous AED training should not prevent someone from using one during a cardiac arrest.

How Often Are Public AEDs Actually Used?

Despite the benefits of early defibrillation, public AEDs are still used in only a small proportion of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests.

Current Resuscitation Council UK figures show bystander AED use rates of approximately:

• 9.0% in England;
• 10.3% in Scotland;
• 8.4% in Wales; and
• 8.0% in Northern Ireland based on the available 2025 reporting period.

This means that in the large majority of cardiac arrests, a public-access AED is not applied before the ambulance response.

Improving AED availability, accessibility and awareness therefore remains an important opportunity.

How Many Defibrillators Are Registered in the UK?

The UK has a national defibrillator network called The Circuit.

By mid-June 2025, Resuscitation Council UK reported:

• 108,584 registered AEDs; and
• 218,493 deployments or attempted deployments of Circuit-registered AEDs.

However, national data does not yet confirm how many of those deployments reached the casualty or resulted in AED use.

This is another reason why it is not possible to calculate a precise figure for the number of lives saved by public AEDs alone.

What Is The Circuit?

The Circuit is the national defibrillator network used by UK ambulance services.

When someone calls 999 during a suspected cardiac arrest, ambulance service staff can use The Circuit to identify registered defibrillators nearby.

This is why public-access AED owners should:

• register their AED;
• keep its location details accurate;
• confirm when it is emergency ready;
• keep accessibility information up to date; and
• update its status if pads, batteries or other consumables need replacing.

Why Accessibility Matters

Simply owning a defibrillator is not enough.

The device needs to be:

• easy to find;
• clearly signposted;
• accessible quickly;
• emergency ready; and
• known to ambulance services where it is publicly available.

Current Resuscitation Council UK guidance recommends that public-access AEDs should be:

• prominently signposted;
• stored in unlocked cabinets; and
• accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week where possible.

An AED locked inside a building outside normal opening hours cannot help someone experiencing a cardiac arrest nearby.

Should My Workplace or Organisation Have a Defibrillator?

There is no general UK law requiring every workplace to provide an AED.

However, organisations can consider AED provision as part of their first-aid needs assessment.

Factors worth considering include:

• number of employees;
• number of visitors or members of the public;
• site size;
• location and accessibility;
• distance to existing AEDs;
• workforce demographics;
• physical activity carried out on site;
• distance from emergency medical help; and
• how quickly an AED could realistically reach a casualty.

Resuscitation Council UK provides risk-assessment guidance to help organisations consider whether AED provision is appropriate.

You can also use our:

Free Defibrillator Site Assessment Form

to help assess AED provision, location, accessibility and ongoing management.

Where Should a Defibrillator Be Located?

An AED should be positioned so that it can be found and retrieved quickly.

A suitable location should normally be:

• highly visible;
• clearly signposted;
• easy to access;
• known to staff;
• accessible during the periods people are present; and
• appropriate for the AED's environmental requirements.

For public-access installations, making the AED available outside normal building opening hours can increase its usefulness to the wider community.

Where an AED is installed outdoors, use a suitable AED cabinet designed to protect the device from environmental conditions.

What Should You Do if Someone Has a Cardiac Arrest?

If someone is unresponsive:

1. Call 999 as soon as possible.
2. Assess whether they are breathing normally while waiting for the call to be answered.
3. If they are unresponsive and not breathing normally, start CPR.
4. Send someone to retrieve an AED if one is available.
5. Switch the AED on.
6. Attach the electrode pads as shown.
7. Follow the AED instructions.
8. Continue CPR when instructed until professional help takes over.

This reflects current Resuscitation Council UK 2025 basic life support guidance.

For more information, read:

What Is CPR?

What Can Organisations Do to Improve the Chances of Survival?

Providing a defibrillator is only part of effective cardiac-arrest preparedness.

Organisations should also consider:

Install the AED in an Accessible Location

Avoid unnecessary barriers to retrieval.

Register Public-Access AEDs on The Circuit

This allows ambulance services to know where the AED is and when it is available.

Use Clear AED Signage

People need to be able to find the defibrillator quickly.

View AED Signs & Posters

Keep the AED Emergency Ready

Check pads, batteries, status indicators and accessibility regularly.

Our free AED Weekly Inspection Record can help organisations record routine readiness checks.

Consider CPR and AED Training

Training can improve familiarity and confidence in responding to an emergency.

View CPR Training Manikins

View AED Trainers

Frequently Asked Questions

How many lives do defibrillators save each year in the UK?

There is no reliable national figure showing how many people are saved specifically by defibrillators alone.

Current UK data shows that around 43,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests receive attempted resuscitation each year, with overall 30-day survival of approximately 9–10%.

How many people survive cardiac arrest in the UK?

Survival varies by nation and circumstances.

Overall 30-day survival after out-of-hospital cardiac arrest is approximately 9–10%, while survival is significantly higher in the subgroup where the arrest is witnessed and the initial rhythm is shockable.

How many lives were saved in England in 2024?

The OHCAO 2024 England overview reports 2,738 30-day survivors in the cohort for which data was submitted.

This figure represents overall survival following resuscitation and should not be interpreted as the number saved by public defibrillators alone.

Does using a defibrillator increase survival?

Yes.

Resuscitation Council UK states that bystander CPR and use of an AED can increase the chances of survival by two to four times.

Can anyone use an AED?

Yes.

Modern AEDs analyse the heart rhythm automatically and provide instructions to the rescuer.

Are defibrillators used often enough in the UK?

No. Current UK data shows public or bystander AED use remains below 10% of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests.

Should a public defibrillator be registered?

Yes. Public-access AEDs should be registered on The Circuit so ambulance services can locate them during an emergency.

Help Make Early Defibrillation Possible

There may be no single figure showing exactly how many UK lives are saved by defibrillators each year, but the evidence is clear:

• early CPR and early defibrillation can significantly improve a person's chances of surviving cardiac arrest.

For organisations considering AED provision, Risk Assessment Products supplies:

Defibrillators & AEDs – AEDs from leading manufacturers.
AED Cabinets & Cases – indoor and outdoor AED storage.
AED Signs & Posters – signage to help people locate an AED quickly.
Free Defibrillator Site Assessment Form – assess AED provision and location.
Free AED Weekly Inspection Record – help keep your AED emergency ready.

If you are unsure which defibrillator is suitable for your workplace, school or organisation, contact Risk Assessment Products for product advice.

An automated external defibrillator (AED) analyses the electrical activity of the heart and delivers a shock only when it detects a heart rhythm that can benefit from defibrillation.

The shock is designed to interrupt certain dangerous abnormal electrical rhythms, giving the heart's normal electrical activity an opportunity to resume.

If someone is unresponsive and not breathing normally, call 999, start CPR and use an AED as soon as one is available.

What Does a Defibrillator Actually Do?

A defibrillator delivers a controlled electrical shock across the heart when it detects certain life-threatening heart rhythms.

During some cardiac arrests, the heart's electrical activity becomes chaotic and the heart can no longer pump blood effectively around the body.

A defibrillator does not act like a simple "restart button". Instead, defibrillation can interrupt the abnormal electrical activity so that an organised heart rhythm has an opportunity to return.

This is why early CPR and early defibrillation are both so important during a cardiac arrest.

What Is Cardiac Arrest?

A cardiac arrest occurs when the heart suddenly stops pumping blood effectively around the body.

The person will typically:

• become unresponsive;
• collapse; and
• not be breathing normally.

Cardiac arrest is a medical emergency.

Current Resuscitation Council UK guidance says that if you find someone who is unresponsive, you should call 999 as soon as possible. If they are unresponsive and not breathing normally, assume cardiac arrest and begin chest compressions.

An AED should be used as soon as one is available.

Can a Defibrillator Shock a Flatline?

No.

A "flatline" is commonly used to describe asystole, where there is no meaningful electrical activity in the heart.

Asystole is a non-shockable cardiac arrest rhythm.

An AED analyses the heart's electrical activity automatically. If the device identifies a non-shockable rhythm, it will not advise or deliver a shock.

Instead, rescuers should continue CPR and follow the instructions given by the AED and ambulance service.

Which Heart Rhythms Can a Defibrillator Shock?

The two main shockable cardiac arrest rhythms are:

• ventricular fibrillation (VF); and
• pulseless ventricular tachycardia (pVT).

Ventricular Fibrillation

Ventricular fibrillation occurs when the electrical activity in the ventricles becomes chaotic.

Instead of pumping blood effectively, the heart muscle quivers.

Defibrillation can interrupt this abnormal electrical activity and give the heart an opportunity to return to an organised rhythm.

Pulseless Ventricular Tachycardia

Pulseless ventricular tachycardia occurs when the ventricles contract extremely quickly but do not produce effective circulation.

This is also a shockable cardiac arrest rhythm.

The important point for the rescuer is that you do not need to identify the rhythm yourself.

The AED analyses the casualty's heart and decides whether a shock is appropriate.

What Heart Rhythms Cannot Be Shocked?

Two important non-shockable cardiac arrest rhythms are:

• asystole; and
  
• pulseless electrical activity (PEA).

An AED will not recommend a shock when it identifies a non-shockable rhythm.

If the AED says "no shock advised", immediately continue CPR and keep following the instructions from the AED.

When Should You Use a Defibrillator?

An AED should be used when someone is:

• unresponsive; and
• not breathing normally.

Do not wait to establish exactly why the person has collapsed.

Call 999, start CPR and get an AED as quickly as possible.

If another rescuer is available, one person can continue CPR while the other retrieves and prepares the AED.

What Should You Do If Someone Is in Cardiac Arrest?

If someone appears to be in cardiac arrest:

1. Check

Make sure it is safe to approach and check whether the person is responsive.

2. Call 999

Call 999 immediately if the person is unresponsive.

If someone else is available, ask them to make the call and locate an AED.

3. Check Their Breathing

Assess whether the person is breathing normally.

If they are unresponsive and not breathing normally, assume cardiac arrest.

4. Start CPR

Begin chest compressions as soon as possible.

For adult CPR, compress the chest:

• at 100–120 compressions per minute;
• to a depth of at least 5 cm but no more than 6 cm; and
• with as few interruptions as possible.

If you are trained and willing to provide rescue breaths, use a ratio of 30 chest compressions to 2 rescue breaths.

5. Use an AED

Switch the AED on and follow its spoken or visual instructions.

Attach the electrode pads to the person's bare chest as shown on the pads or device.

Make sure nobody is touching the casualty when the AED analyses the heart rhythm.

If a shock is advised, follow the AED's instructions.

Immediately restart CPR after the shock.

If no shock is advised, immediately restart CPR and continue to follow the AED prompts.

Considering a Defibrillator for Your Workplace or Organisation?

Modern AEDs are designed to guide the rescuer through a cardiac arrest with clear spoken and/or visual instructions.

Risk Assessment Products supplies defibrillators and AEDs from a range of established manufacturers, with models suitable for workplaces, schools, sports clubs, public locations, healthcare environments and other settings.

Shop Defibrillators & AEDs

Can Anyone Use a Defibrillator?

Yes.

Automated external defibrillators are designed so that members of the public can use them.

You do not need to diagnose the heart rhythm yourself.

The AED:

1. guides you through attaching the pads;
2. analyses the heart rhythm;
3. determines whether a shock is required; and
4. tells you what to do next.

Current Resuscitation Council UK guidance specifically states that anyone can use an AED.

Training can increase confidence and familiarity, but a lack of AED training should not prevent someone from using one during a cardiac arrest.

Can a Defibrillator Shock Someone Who Does Not Need It?

An AED is designed to analyse the heart rhythm before deciding whether a shock is appropriate.

It will only advise or deliver a shock when it identifies a rhythm that it has determined to be shockable.

This means the rescuer does not have to make the clinical decision themselves.

The key action is simply to:

switch the AED on and follow its instructions.

What Is the Difference Between a Semi-Automatic and Fully Automatic Defibrillator?

Both semi-automatic and fully automatic AEDs analyse the casualty's heart rhythm automatically.

The difference is primarily how the shock is delivered.

Semi-Automatic Defibrillators

A semi-automatic AED analyses the rhythm and, if a shock is required, instructs the rescuer to press the shock button.

The rescuer must make sure nobody is touching the casualty before pressing the button.

Shop Semi-Automatic Defibrillators

Fully Automatic Defibrillators

A fully automatic AED analyses the heart rhythm and, if required, delivers the shock automatically after warning rescuers to stand clear.

The user does not need to press a shock button.

Shop Fully Automatic Defibrillators

Neither type is inherently the correct choice for every situation. The most suitable AED will depend on where it will be used and the requirements of the organisation.

Does a Defibrillator Always Deliver a Shock?

No.

An AED does not automatically shock every person in cardiac arrest.

It analyses the heart rhythm first.

If the rhythm is shockable, the AED will advise or deliver a shock depending on whether it is semi-automatic or fully automatic.

If the rhythm is not shockable, the AED will give a "no shock advised" instruction and tell the rescuer to continue CPR.

This is completely normal and does not mean the AED has failed.

Why Is CPR Still Needed if You Have a Defibrillator?

CPR and defibrillation perform different but complementary jobs during a cardiac arrest.

CPR helps maintain blood circulation to the brain and other vital organs.

Defibrillation treats certain abnormal electrical heart rhythms.

CPR should therefore begin as soon as cardiac arrest is recognised and continue while the AED is being retrieved and prepared whenever possible.

After the AED delivers a shock – or advises that no shock is required – CPR should resume immediately.

For a more detailed explanation, read our guide to what CPR is and how it works.

How Much Difference Can CPR and an AED Make?

Early action matters.

Resuscitation Council UK states that bystander CPR and use of an AED can increase the chances of survival from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest by two to four times.

The best outcome is therefore not achieved by the defibrillator alone.

It comes from a chain of actions that includes:

• recognising cardiac arrest;
• calling 999;
• starting CPR quickly;
• retrieving an AED;
• using the AED as soon as possible; and
• continuing resuscitation until professional help takes over.

Where Should a Defibrillator Be Kept?

A defibrillator should be easy to find and quickly accessible in an emergency.

Resuscitation Council UK recommends that AEDs are:

• prominently signposted;
• readily accessible;
• available 24 hours a day where possible; and
• housed in unlocked cabinets when deployed for public access.

Where an AED is installed outside or in an exposed environment, an appropriate outdoor cabinet can help protect it against weather and environmental conditions.

Risk Assessment Products supplies a range of AED cabinets and cases for indoor and outdoor installations.

View AED Cabinets & Cases

Should an AED Cabinet Be Locked?

For public-access AEDs, current Resuscitation Council UK guidance recommends that cabinets should be unlocked and readily accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.

The objective is to minimise delays in getting the AED to the casualty.

An outdoor AED may still require a weather-resistant or heated cabinet depending on the device, installation location and environmental conditions.

Should a Defibrillator Be Registered?

Public-access AEDs should be registered with The Circuit, the national defibrillator network.

Registering an AED helps ambulance services know where it is located and when it is available.

During a 999 call, the ambulance service may then be able to direct rescuers towards a nearby registered AED.

Which Defibrillator Should I Buy?

There is no single AED that is best for every organisation.

Factors worth comparing include:

• semi-automatic or fully automatic operation;
• adult and paediatric capability;
• electrode pad shelf life;
• battery life;
• warranty;
• environmental protection;
• CPR feedback;
• spoken and visual prompts;
• ongoing consumable costs; and
• where the device will be installed.

A small office may have different requirements from a school, construction site, sports club or outdoor community installation.

You can narrow your options using our Shop AEDs by Setting section or browse our full Defibrillator & AED Brands range.

CPR uses repeated chest compressions to help keep blood circulating to the brain and other vital organs while emergency medical help and a defibrillator are on the way.

Anyone can learn CPR, and acting quickly can make a significant difference to a person's chance of survival.

What Does CPR Stand For?

CPR stands for:

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation

• Cardio relates to the heart.
• Pulmonary relates to the lungs.
• Resuscitation means attempting to restore vital functions such as circulation and breathing.

During cardiac arrest, the heart is no longer pumping blood effectively around the body. CPR helps maintain some circulation until more advanced treatment can be provided.

When Is CPR Needed?

CPR should be started when someone is:

• unresponsive; and
• not breathing normally.

Abnormal breathing can include occasional gasps, slow or laboured breathing or other unusual breathing patterns. Gasping should not be mistaken for normal breathing.

Under current Resuscitation Council UK guidance, if you find someone who is unresponsive, call 999 as soon as possible. If somebody else is present, ask them to make the call.

The ambulance service call handler can help you assess the casualty and talk you through CPR if needed.

If the person is unresponsive and not breathing normally, assume they are in cardiac arrest and begin chest compressions as soon as possible.

How Do You Perform CPR on an Adult?

This guide explains the basic adult CPR process.

1. Check for Danger

Make sure it is safe for you to approach the person.

Do not put yourself or others at unnecessary risk.

2. Check for a Response

Check whether the person responds when you speak to them and gently stimulate them.

If there is no response, get help.

3. Call 999

Call 999 as soon as possible for an unresponsive person.

If another person is available, ask them to call 999 and locate the nearest automated external defibrillator (AED).

Put your telephone on speaker if possible so that you can follow instructions from the ambulance service call handler while helping the casualty.

4. Check Their Breathing

Assess whether the person is breathing normally.

If they are unresponsive and not breathing normally, begin CPR.

Gasping, panting or irregular breathing should not be treated as normal breathing.

5. Start Chest Compressions

Place the heel of one hand in the centre of the person's chest, on the lower half of the breastbone.

Place the heel of your other hand on top and interlock your fingers.

Keep your arms straight and position your shoulders above your hands.

Push firmly down on the chest:

• at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute;
• to a depth of at least 5 cm but no more than 6 cm;
• allowing the chest to rise fully again after every compression; and
• keeping interruptions to an absolute minimum.

Continue until professional help takes over, the person begins to show clear signs of life, or you are physically unable to continue.

How Many Chest Compressions Should You Give?

If you are trained and willing to provide rescue breaths, use a ratio of:

30 chest compressions followed by 2 rescue breaths.

Then continue with repeated cycles of 30:2.

If you cannot or do not want to provide rescue breaths, carry out continuous chest compressions instead.

Doing something is much better than doing nothing.

How Do You Give Rescue Breaths?

If you have been trained and are willing to provide rescue breaths:

1. After 30 chest compressions, open the airway using a head tilt and chin lift.
2. Pinch the person's nose closed.
3. Make a seal around their mouth with yours.
4. Blow steadily for around one second, using enough air to make the chest begin to rise.
5. Give a second breath.
6. Immediately restart chest compressions.

Continue alternating 30 compressions and 2 breaths.

Avoid giving excessive amounts of air.

How Fast Should CPR Be?

Adult chest compressions should be performed at a rate of:

100–120 compressions per minute.

The aim is to maintain a steady rhythm while keeping interruptions as short as possible.

It is also important to allow the chest to recoil fully between compressions rather than continuously leaning on it.

How Deep Should CPR Compressions Be?

For an adult, the chest should be compressed:

at least 5 cm but no more than 6 cm.

Correct depth is important because compressions need to generate enough blood flow to the brain and other vital organs.

This is one of the reasons practical CPR training using a CPR training manikin can be so useful. Many modern manikins provide feedback on compression depth, rate and technique.

What Is Hands-Only CPR?

Hands-only CPR means providing continuous chest compressions without rescue breaths.

If you have not been trained in rescue breaths, are unable to provide them or are unwilling to do so, continue chest compressions at 100-120 per minute.

Do not delay CPR because you are worried about performing it perfectly.

The ambulance service call handler can guide you through what to do.

When Should You Use a Defibrillator?

An automated external defibrillator (AED) should be used as soon as one is available when someone is in cardiac arrest.

AEDs analyse the person's heart rhythm and determine whether an electric shock is required.

Modern AEDs provide clear spoken and/or visual instructions, and anyone can use one.

If an AED is available:

• Switch the AED on.
• Expose the person's chest.
• Attach the electrode pads in the positions shown on the pads or device.
• Continue CPR while the pads are attached if another rescuer is available.
• Follow the AED's instructions.
• Make sure nobody is touching the person while the AED analyses their heart rhythm.
• Deliver a shock if instructed.
• Resume CPR immediately when prompted.

Never delay CPR while waiting for a defibrillator to arrive.

View Defibrillators & AEDs

Why Are CPR and Defibrillation Both Important?

CPR and defibrillation perform different but complementary roles during a cardiac arrest.

CPR helps maintain blood flow to vital organs.

An AED analyses the heart's electrical rhythm and can deliver a shock when an appropriate shockable rhythm is detected.

Early recognition, early CPR and early defibrillation are key parts of the chain of survival.

Bystander CPR combined with the use of an AED can significantly increase the chance of surviving an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest.

Can Anyone Use a Defibrillator?

Yes.

You do not need to be a healthcare professional or have previous AED training to use a public access defibrillator.

The AED guides the rescuer through the process and will only advise a shock when its analysis determines that one is appropriate.

Training can, however, help people become more familiar with the process and more confident about acting quickly in an emergency.

Why Is CPR Training Important?

Reading about CPR is useful, but practical training gives people the opportunity to practise the physical technique before they face a real emergency.

Training can help learners understand:

• correct hand position;
• compression depth;
• compression rate;
• full chest recoil;
• rescue breaths;
• how to minimise interruptions;
• how to recognise cardiac arrest; and
• how CPR and an AED are used together.

Repeated practice can also help people become more confident about responding to an emergency.

CPR Training Manikins

CPR training manikins allow learners to practise CPR safely without performing compressions on another person.

Depending on the model, training manikins may provide feedback on:

• compression rate;
• compression depth;
• chest recoil;
• hand position; and
• ventilation technique.

Adult, child and infant models are available to support different first aid and resuscitation training requirements.

They are widely used by:

• first aid instructors;
• training providers;
• workplaces;
• schools and colleges;
• healthcare organisations;
• emergency services; and
• community training groups.

Shop CPR Training Manikins

What Is an AED Trainer?

An AED trainer is a training device designed to simulate the operation of a real automated external defibrillator without delivering an electric shock.

They allow learners to practise:

• switching on an AED;
• attaching training electrode pads;
• following voice and visual prompts;
• safely clearing the casualty during analysis;
• responding to simulated shock instructions; and
• combining AED use with CPR.

Using an AED trainer alongside a CPR manikin allows learners to practise the complete response to a simulated cardiac arrest.

Shop AED Trainers

CPR Training for Workplaces and Organisations

CPR skills can be valuable wherever people live, work, study or spend their leisure time.

Organisations may choose to provide CPR and AED training for employees, volunteers or other nominated responders so they are more confident about what to do during a cardiac arrest.

Practical training using CPR manikins and AED trainers gives learners an opportunity to practise realistic emergency scenarios in a controlled environment.

For further information, see our CPR FAQs.

What Is the Chain of Survival?

The chain of survival describes the sequence of actions that can improve the outcome following cardiac arrest.

Important links include:

1. Recognising cardiac arrest and calling for emergency help.
2. Starting CPR quickly.
3. Using a defibrillator as soon as possible.
4. Advanced resuscitation and post-resuscitation care.

The actions of people nearby are therefore extremely important during the first few minutes of a cardiac arrest.

CPR Frequently Asked Questions

What does CPR stand for?

CPR stands for cardiopulmonary resuscitation. It is an emergency procedure used when someone is unresponsive and not breathing normally.

How many compressions per minute should CPR be?

Adult CPR should be performed at a rate of 100-120 chest compressions per minute.

How deep should CPR compressions be?

For adults, compress the chest to a depth of at least 5 cm but no more than 6 cm.

How many compressions and breaths should you give during CPR?

If trained and willing to give rescue breaths, provide 30 chest compressions followed by 2 breaths and repeat.

If you cannot provide rescue breaths, continue chest-compression-only CPR.

Can you perform CPR without rescue breaths?

Yes. If you are unable or unwilling to provide rescue breaths, continuous chest compressions can still be given.

Do you need training to perform CPR?

Anyone can attempt CPR. Training is strongly beneficial because it gives you practical experience and greater familiarity with the correct technique, but lack of training should not prevent you from helping someone in cardiac arrest.

Can anyone use an AED?

Yes. AEDs are designed so that members of the public can use them. Switch the device on and follow its spoken or visual instructions.

Should you stop CPR when a defibrillator arrives?

No. Keep CPR interruptions as short as possible. If another rescuer is available, they can prepare and attach the AED while chest compressions continue. Follow the AED instructions and stop touching the casualty when the device tells you to stand clear.

Learn CPR. Practice CPR. Be Ready to Act.

Knowing what CPR is and recognising when it is needed can help someone respond quickly during a cardiac arrest.

Practical training can build on that knowledge by allowing people to practise chest compressions, rescue breaths and AED use in a safe environment.

Risk Assessment Products supplies equipment for CPR and AED training, including:

CPR Training Manikins - adult, child and infant models for practical resuscitation training.
AED Trainers - training devices for practising defibrillator use without delivering a shock.
Defibrillators & AEDs - AEDs for workplaces, schools, community locations and other settings.

Being prepared, recognising cardiac arrest and acting quickly can make a vital difference.

Hazardous substances are not limited to obvious industrial chemicals. They can include cleaning products, paints, dusts, fumes, vapours, gases, mists and biological agents that employees may encounter as part of their work.

Understanding COSHH is therefore important for businesses of all sizes where substances that could harm health are used, handled, produced or stored.

What Does Each Letter in COSHH Mean?

COSHH stands for:

The purpose of COSHH is to help prevent or adequately control exposure to substances that could damage a person's health.

What Are the COSHH Regulations?

The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 place duties on employers to protect employees and others who may be exposed to hazardous substances through work activities.

Employers need to identify potential health hazards, assess the risks and decide how exposure can be prevented or adequately controlled.

This may involve changing the substance or process being used, introducing engineering controls such as extraction or enclosure, changing working practices, providing suitable storage, supplying appropriate personal protective equipment where required, and ensuring employees receive relevant information, instruction and training.

Employers must also make sure that control measures remain effective and are properly maintained.

What Substances Are Covered by COSHH?

COSHH applies to many substances that could be harmful to health.

Examples can include:

• chemicals and products containing chemicals;
• cleaning and maintenance products;
• paints, coatings, solvents and adhesives;
• dust created through activities such as cutting, sanding or grinding;
• fumes produced during processes such as welding;
• gases and vapours;
• mists and sprays;
• biological agents and harmful micro-organisms; and
• substances generated as a result of a work process.

A substance does not necessarily need to arrive in a container carrying a hazard label to present a COSHH risk. Dust or fumes generated by a workplace process, for example, may also need to be assessed.

Lead, asbestos and radioactive substances are subject to their own specific regulations rather than being controlled through COSHH.

What Does an Employer Need to Do Under COSHH?

Employers should consider how hazardous substances are used or produced within the workplace and how people could be exposed to them.

A typical approach includes:

• Identify the hazardous substances used or produced in the workplace.
• Assess the risks to employees and anyone else who could be exposed.
• Prevent exposure where reasonably practicable, for example by removing the substance or using a safer alternative.
• Adequately control exposure where it cannot be prevented.
• Provide suitable control measures and make sure they are used correctly.
• Maintain and review control measures to ensure they remain effective.
• Provide employees with information, instruction and training.
• Monitor exposure and provide health surveillance where appropriate.
• Plan how accidents, spills and emergencies will be dealt with.
• Review the COSHH assessment when circumstances change or existing controls may no longer be effective.

The measures required will depend on the substances involved, the work being undertaken and the level of risk.

What Is a COSHH Risk Assessment?

A COSHH risk assessment examines the hazardous substances present in a workplace, how they could cause harm and what needs to be done to prevent or control exposure.

Employers should consider factors such as:

• what substances are being used or produced;
• their hazardous properties;
• how and where they are used;
• who could be exposed;
• how exposure could occur;
• how often exposure may take place;
• how much of the substance is involved;
• the existing control measures; and
• any further action needed.

Exposure can occur through breathing in dust, fumes, gases, vapours or mists, through contact with the skin or eyes, or in some circumstances by swallowing or other routes of entry.

Product labels and Safety Data Sheets (SDS) can provide useful information when identifying chemical hazards, although the COSHH assessment must consider how the substance is actually being used within the workplace.

For businesses with five or more employees, significant findings of the risk assessment must be recorded.

How Are Hazardous Substances Identified?

Hazardous chemical products may carry hazard pictograms and other information on their labels.

Chemical classification and labelling in Great Britain is governed by the GB Classification, Labelling and Packaging of Chemicals Regulation (GB CLP).

Depending on its classification, a chemical label may include:

• hazard pictograms;
• a signal word such as Danger or Warning;
• hazard statements explaining the nature of the hazard; and
• precautionary statements explaining measures that should be taken.

Employers should check product labels and Safety Data Sheets as part of identifying hazards, but should also consider hazardous substances generated by their own processes.

Need to Store Hazardous Substances Safely?

Correct storage can form part of the measures used to manage hazardous substances in the workplace.

Risk Assessment Products supplies a range of COSHH cabinets designed for secure workplace storage, alongside a wider selection of hazardous storage and spill containment equipment for commercial and industrial environments.

Shop COSHH Cabinets

View Hazardous Storage & Spill Containment

How Should Hazardous Substances Be Stored?

There is no single storage arrangement suitable for every substance.

Storage requirements should be determined by the hazards involved, the quantities being stored, manufacturers' information, the Safety Data Sheet and the findings of the workplace risk assessment.

Considerations may include:

• keeping substances securely stored;
• preventing unauthorised access;
• keeping incompatible substances apart;
• protecting containers against damage;
• providing appropriate ventilation where required;
• containing leaks or spills;
• using suitable warning labels and signs;
• keeping containers closed when not in use; and
• having appropriate procedures for spills and emergencies.

Some dangerous substances can also present risks such as fire or explosion and may be subject to additional requirements, including the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002 (DSEAR).

Do I Need a COSHH Cabinet?

A COSHH cabinet is not automatically required simply because a business uses a substance covered by COSHH.

The correct storage arrangements should come from the risk assessment and take account of the properties of the substances being stored.

Where secure storage and containment are appropriate, a purpose-designed COSHH or hazardous substance cabinet can provide a practical way of controlling access and helping contain leaks or spillages.

COSHH cabinets are commonly used for substances such as certain:

• cleaning chemicals;
• maintenance chemicals;
• paints;
• adhesives;
• solvents; and
• other workplace substances requiring controlled storage.

Always check the relevant Safety Data Sheet and your risk assessment before deciding how a particular chemical should be stored. Different hazards may require different storage arrangements, and substances that are incompatible should not automatically be stored together simply because they are hazardous.

Browse COSHH Cabinets

What Is the Difference Between a COSHH Assessment and a Safety Data Sheet?

A Safety Data Sheet and a COSHH risk assessment are not the same thing.

A Safety Data Sheet is supplied for certain hazardous chemical products and provides information about matters such as hazards, handling, storage and emergency measures.

A COSHH assessment considers how a hazardous substance is actually used or generated in your particular workplace, who could be exposed and what controls are needed.

A Safety Data Sheet can therefore provide important information for completing a COSHH assessment, but it does not replace the assessment itself.

What Control Measures Can Be Used Under COSHH?

The first objective should be to prevent exposure where reasonably practicable.

For example, it may be possible to stop using a particular hazardous substance, replace it with a less hazardous alternative or change the process.

Where exposure cannot be prevented, suitable controls may include:

• enclosed processes;
• local exhaust ventilation;
• general ventilation;
• safer systems of work;
• reducing the number of people exposed;
• limiting the duration or frequency of exposure;
• suitable storage and containment;
• appropriate cleaning and maintenance procedures;
• employee information and training; and
• suitable personal protective equipment where required.

The appropriate controls will depend on the individual risk assessment.

What Information and Training Should Employees Receive?

Employees who could be exposed to hazardous substances should receive appropriate information, instruction and training.

This should help them understand:

• which substances could harm them;
• the potential health risks;
• how exposure can occur;
• the control measures they must use;
• how substances should be handled and stored;
• what personal protective equipment is required, where applicable;
• how to recognise when controls may not be working correctly; and
• what to do in the event of a spill, accident or emergency.

Employees also need to follow the controls that have been put in place.

COSHH Workplace Checklist

When reviewing hazardous substances in your workplace, consider the following:

• Identify the substances that could cause harm.
• Check labels and Safety Data Sheets where applicable.
• Consider substances generated by workplace activities, such as dust and fumes.
• Assess who could be exposed and how.
• Prevent exposure wherever reasonably practicable.
• Control remaining exposure adequately.
• Store hazardous substances appropriately.
• Prepare for leaks, spillages and emergencies.
• Train employees in the risks and control measures.
• Maintain equipment and other control measures.
• Monitor exposure and undertake health surveillance where necessary.
• Review assessments and controls regularly and following significant changes.

COSHH Storage and Spill Control Equipment

The equipment needed will depend on your risk assessment and the substances involved.

For workplaces where hazardous liquids or chemicals need to be stored and managed, Risk Assessment Products offers equipment including:

COSHH Cabinets

Purpose-designed cabinets for secure storage of workplace hazardous substances, available in a range of sizes to suit different requirements.

Shop COSHH Cabinets

Hazardous Storage

Storage solutions for commercial, industrial and workplace environments where chemicals and other hazardous materials need to be securely managed.

Shop Dangerous Substance Safety Cabinet

Spill Containment

Spill trays and other containment products can help contain leaks and accidental releases where appropriate to the substance and workplace risk.

Spill Containment

For many workplaces, schools and community defibrillators, carrying out a simple visual check every week is a practical way to identify problems such as expired pads, a low battery, damage or a warning on the AED status indicator.

The important thing is to have a clear checking routine, assign responsibility to someone and act promptly if the AED is not ready for use.

How Often Should You Check a Defibrillator?

The appropriate checking frequency depends on:

• the AED manufacturer’s instructions;
• where the defibrillator is located;
• how frequently it is used;
• whether it is publicly accessible;
• environmental conditions;
• the organisation responsible for it; and
• any sector-specific resuscitation standards.

Public-access AED owners and guardians should carry out routine checks to make sure the device remains ready for use.

In some healthcare environments, Resuscitation Council UK standards specify that resuscitation equipment should be checked at least weekly.

For many non-clinical workplaces and public-access AEDs, a weekly visual inspection is also a straightforward way to maintain a consistent record of checks.

Does an AED Check Itself?

Most modern AEDs perform automatic self-tests.

Depending on the model, these may take place:

• daily;
• weekly;
• monthly; or
• at other programmed intervals.

The AED normally displays a status indicator showing whether it has passed its self-tests and is ready for use.

This might be:

• a green tick;
• an “OK” symbol;
• a flashing status light;
• a visible readiness indicator; or
• another manufacturer-specific display.

If the AED displays a warning, red indicator, audible alert or fault message, investigate it promptly and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Automatic self-testing is extremely useful, but it does not replace regular physical checks.

A self-test cannot necessarily tell you that the cabinet has been damaged, the AED is missing, the electrode pads have been removed, accessories are incomplete or access to the device has become obstructed.

What Should Be Checked on a Defibrillator?

A routine AED inspection does not need to take long.

Check the following.

1. AED Status Indicator

Confirm that the AED is showing its normal ready or OK status.

If the device displays a fault or warning, follow the manufacturer’s instructions before considering it emergency ready.

2. Electrode Pads

Check that:

• the correct pads are present;
• the pack is sealed;
• the packaging is undamaged;
• the pads are within their expiry date; and
• they are compatible with the AED.

Expired pads should be replaced before the expiry date.

Shop Defibrillator Pads

3. Battery Status

Confirm the AED is not showing a low-battery warning.

AED batteries have a limited service or standby life, which varies by manufacturer and model.

Do not wait until the battery is completely depleted. Follow the AED manufacturer’s replacement schedule and any status warnings displayed by the device.

Shop Defibrillator Batteries

4. Physical Condition

Check the AED for obvious:

• damage;
• cracks;
• contamination;
• signs of water ingress;
• loose components; or
• other problems that could affect its operation.

The device should be clean, secure and immediately available.

5. Rescue Accessories

Where a rescue kit is provided, check that the required items are present and usable.

Depending on the kit, this may include:

• scissors;
• disposable gloves;
• razor;
• face shield or CPR barrier;
• towel; and
• other manufacturer-supplied accessories.

6. AED Cabinet or Storage

If the AED is kept in a cabinet, check that:

• the cabinet is undamaged;
• the AED is visible and accessible;
• nothing is obstructing access;
• signage remains clear;
• any alarm works correctly;
• any heating system operates correctly where fitted; and
• the cabinet is suitable for the environment.

For outdoor AEDs, the condition of the cabinet is particularly important because the device needs to be protected against environmental conditions.

View AED Cabinets & Cases

7. AED Location and Signage

Make sure the AED is still in its designated location and can be found quickly.

The location should be clearly signposted using appropriate defibrillator signage.

Public-access AEDs should be readily accessible, with current Resuscitation Council UK guidance recommending unlocked cabinets and 24/7 access wherever possible.

View AED Signs & Posters

Free AED Weekly Inspection Record

Keeping a written record makes it easier to show when an AED was last checked and identify upcoming maintenance requirements.

Our free AED Weekly Inspection Record provides a simple way to record routine checks, including the device condition, electrode pads, battery status and accessories.

Download the Free AED Weekly Inspection Record

Using a weekly record can be particularly useful for:

• workplaces;
• schools;
• sports clubs;
• community organisations;
• public-access AED guardians;
• dental practices;
• leisure facilities; and
• other locations responsible for keeping an AED available.

Who Should Be Responsible for Checking an AED?

It is good practice to assign responsibility for the AED to a named person or team.

For public-access defibrillators, this person is often referred to as the AED Guardian.

Their responsibilities may include:

• carrying out routine checks;
• monitoring pad expiry dates;
• monitoring battery condition;
• checking the cabinet;
• replacing used consumables;
• recording inspections;
• responding to fault alerts;
• updating The Circuit; and
• making sure the AED is returned to emergency-ready condition after use.

There should also be cover if the designated person is absent.

A checking system only works if someone is clearly responsible for carrying it out.

How Often Should Defibrillator Pads Be Checked?

Check the electrode pad expiry date as part of every routine AED inspection.

Pads do not need replacing every time you inspect the AED, but they should be replaced:

• before their expiry date;
• after they have been used;
• if the packaging has been opened;
• if the seal has been damaged; or
• if the manufacturer instructs you to replace them.

The shelf life varies between AED manufacturers and pad types.

Do not assume replacement pads will fit every AED. Always order pads designed for your specific make and model.

Browse Replacement Defibrillator Pads

How Often Should an AED Battery Be Checked?

The battery status should be considered during every routine inspection.

Many AEDs monitor their own battery condition and give an audible or visual warning when replacement is required.

Battery life varies considerably between devices and can be affected by factors including:

• the AED model;
• battery chemistry;
• number of self-tests;
• operating temperature;
• number of deployments;
• number of shocks delivered; and
• manufacturer specifications.

Replace the battery according to the manufacturer’s instructions rather than relying on a generic replacement interval.

Browse Defibrillator Batteries

Should an AED Be Checked After It Has Been Used?

Yes.

An AED should be inspected promptly after every deployment before it is returned to emergency-ready status.

After use:

1. Return the AED to its designated location.
2. Replace used electrode pads.
3. Check the battery status.
4. Replace any used rescue accessories.
5. Inspect the AED for damage or contamination.
6. Clean it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Confirm the device displays its normal ready status.
8. Check the cabinet and signage.
9. Update its availability on The Circuit where applicable.

The AED should not be considered ready for another emergency until the necessary consumables have been replaced and the device confirms that it is operational.

For more information, see our guide to how many times a defibrillator can be used on a person.

What Is The Circuit?

The Circuit is the UK’s national defibrillator network.

It provides NHS ambulance services with information about defibrillator locations and whether registered AEDs are currently available for use.

Public-access defibrillator owners and guardians should register their device and keep its information up to date.

The Circuit allows guardians to record status checks and confirm whether their AED is Emergency Ready.

If an AED becomes unavailable because:

• its pads have expired;
• it has been used;
• the battery needs replacing;
• the device has developed a fault; or
• it is temporarily inaccessible,

its status should be updated.

Once the AED has been checked and made ready again, its status can be returned to Emergency Ready.

Does The Circuit Replace Physical AED Checks?

No.

Registering an AED on The Circuit does not remove the need to inspect it.

The Circuit helps ambulance services know:

• where your AED is located;
• whether it is accessible;
• when it was last checked; and
• whether it is emergency ready.

The physical AED still needs to be routinely inspected by its owner or guardian.

Does a Defibrillator Need Annual Servicing?

Not every AED requires a conventional annual service.

Modern AEDs generally perform regular automatic self-tests and are designed to require relatively little routine servicing.

However, maintenance requirements vary between manufacturers.

Always follow the instructions supplied with your particular AED regarding:

• servicing;
• software or firmware updates;
• battery replacement;
• pad replacement;
• fault diagnosis; and
• end-of-life requirements.

If an AED displays a fault that cannot be resolved, contact the manufacturer or supplier before returning the device to service.

How Long Do Defibrillators Last?

An AED does not have one universal lifespan.

The service life depends on the manufacturer, model, environmental conditions, usage and maintenance.

Individual components also have different replacement cycles.

For example:

Electrode pads have an expiry date and need replacing when expired or used.

Batteries have a specified standby or operating life.

AED units may remain operational for considerably longer, provided they pass their self-tests and remain within the manufacturer’s supported service life.

Regular checks therefore help protect the investment you have made in the AED as well as helping ensure it is ready in an emergency.

What Happens if an AED Fails a Check?

If the AED is showing a fault or cannot be confirmed as emergency ready:

Do not simply ignore the warning.

Check the manufacturer’s instructions and determine whether the problem relates to:

• expired pads;
• battery condition;
• missing consumables;
• incorrect pad connection;
• device fault;
• environmental conditions; or
• another issue.

Replace the appropriate consumables where necessary.

If the problem cannot be resolved, contact the manufacturer or supplier.

For a public-access AED registered on The Circuit, update its status if it is temporarily unavailable.

Do Outdoor AEDs Need More Frequent Checks?

Outdoor AED installations may warrant particularly close attention because the cabinet and device can be exposed to:

• low temperatures;
• heat;
• moisture;
• dust;
• vandalism;
• accidental damage; and
• public access.

Check that the cabinet remains secure, weather-resistant and operational.

Where an outdoor cabinet has a heater, check that it is functioning as intended, particularly during colder weather.

Always make sure the AED itself is stored within the temperature range specified by its manufacturer.

AED Maintenance Checklist

A straightforward routine check should confirm:

• AED present - the device is in its correct location.
• Ready indicator OK - no fault warning is showing.
• Pads sealed - packaging has not been opened or damaged.
• Pads in date - replacement date has not passed.
• Battery ready - no low-battery indication.
• Device undamaged - AED is clean and in good condition.
• Accessories present - rescue kit is complete where supplied.
• Cabinet operational - including alarm/heater where applicable.
• Access clear - AED can be reached immediately.
• Signage visible - people can quickly locate the device.
• The Circuit updated - for registered public-access AEDs.
• Check recorded - date and responsible person documented.

An AED analyses the electrical rhythm of the heart before deciding whether a shock is appropriate. It will only advise or deliver a shock when it detects a rhythm suitable for defibrillation.

For someone who is unresponsive and not breathing normally, the greater danger is delaying CPR and defibrillation.

Current Resuscitation Council UK guidance states that anyone can use an AED.

Can an AED Shock Someone Who Does Not Need It?

An AED is designed to prevent this.

Before any shock is advised, the device analyses the person’s heart rhythm.

If the rhythm is not shockable, the AED will not tell the rescuer to deliver a shock.

Resuscitation Council UK states that AEDs are safe for public use and will not allow a shock to be given to someone who does not require one.

This means you do not need to diagnose the heart rhythm yourself.

The AED does that for you.

What Happens When a Defibrillator Delivers a Shock?

A defibrillator does not simply “restart” a completely stopped heart.

It delivers a controlled electrical shock when it identifies certain abnormal heart rhythms that can benefit from defibrillation.

The shock is intended to interrupt the abnormal electrical activity and give the heart an opportunity to return to an organised rhythm.

For a fuller explanation, read:

Does a Defibrillator Restart a Stopped Heart?

Can the Shock From an AED Harm the Casualty?

The shock itself is a necessary treatment when the AED identifies a shockable cardiac arrest rhythm.

The person is already in a life-threatening emergency.

Public-access AEDs are specifically designed to analyse the heart rhythm and only advise defibrillation when it is appropriate.

The risk of significant harm from AED use is very low compared with the risk of doing nothing during cardiac arrest. Resuscitation Council UK advises members of the public not to be afraid to use an AED when someone is in cardiac arrest.

Can a Defibrillator Shock the Person Using It?

The risk to the rescuer is very low when the AED is used correctly.

The important safety rule is:

Nobody should be touching the casualty when the AED is analysing the rhythm or delivering a shock.

The AED will normally tell rescuers to stand clear before analysis and shock delivery.

Resuscitation Council UK notes that injury to a CPR provider from defibrillator shock is extremely rare.

Is It Safe to Use an AED on a Wet Person?

Usually, yes.

If the casualty is wet, dry the chest so the adhesive AED pads can stick properly.

An AED can generally be used if the person is on a wet, metallic or other conductive surface, provided the pads are correctly attached and nobody is touching the casualty when the shock is delivered.

Do not delay defibrillation unnecessarily.

Is It Safe to Use an AED on a Metal Surface?

Yes, in most circumstances.

The key is to ensure:

• the electrode pads are firmly attached to the casualty’s bare chest;
• nobody is touching the casualty during analysis or shock delivery; and
• you continue to follow the AED instructions.

Resuscitation Council UK states that AED use is usually safe on metallic and other conductive surfaces.

Can You Use a Defibrillator on a Child?

Yes.

An AED can be used on children.

For children under approximately 8 years old or 25 kg, current Resuscitation Council UK guidance recommends using a paediatric mode or attenuated shock setting where available.

If a paediatric setting is not available, do not delay defibrillation — use the AED in standard adult mode.

Some AEDs use:

• separate paediatric electrode pads;
• a child key;
• a child button or switch; or
• a paediatric mode using the same pads.

Always follow the instructions for the particular AED being used.

What if the Child Is Very Small?

When using adult-size AED pads on a small child, the pads should not touch each other.

For smaller children, Resuscitation Council UK guidance recommends an anteroposterior position where necessary:

• one pad on the front of the chest; and
• one pad on the back between the shoulder blades.

Can You Use an AED on a Pregnant Woman?

Yes.

Cardiac arrest during pregnancy is rare, but an AED should still be used if needed.

Resuscitation Council UK states that AED use is appropriate in pregnancy.

The pads should be placed in the normal positions but kept clear of enlarged breast tissue where possible.

Pregnancy is not a reason to delay CPR or defibrillation.

Can Anyone Use an AED?

Yes.

Public-access AEDs are designed for use by members of the public, including people who have never used one before.

The AED guides the rescuer through the process using spoken and/or visual instructions.

You do not need to:

• diagnose the rhythm;
• decide whether a shock is required; or
• have medical qualifications.

Current UK guidance explicitly states that anyone can use an AED.

Training can improve confidence and familiarity, but lack of training should not stop you from using one in an emergency.

What Should You Do if Someone Collapses?

If someone is unresponsive:

1. Call 999 immediately.
2. Assess whether they are breathing normally.
3. If they are unresponsive and not breathing normally, start CPR.
4. Send someone to get an AED if one is available.
5. Switch the AED on.
6. Attach the pads to the bare chest as shown.
7. Follow the AED instructions.
8. Make sure nobody is touching the casualty when the AED analyses the rhythm or delivers a shock.
9. Resume CPR immediately when instructed.

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

What if the AED Says “No Shock Advised”?

Do not assume the casualty has recovered.

A “no shock advised” message means the AED has not detected a rhythm suitable for defibrillation at that moment.

Immediately restart CPR unless the casualty is clearly showing signs of life and breathing normally.

The AED will continue to guide you and may analyse the heart rhythm again later.

Can You Accidentally Kill Someone by Using an AED?

The risk of causing serious harm by correctly using a public-access AED is extremely low.

The AED is designed to prevent inappropriate shocks by analysing the heart rhythm before allowing defibrillation.

During suspected cardiac arrest, delaying CPR and AED use is the greater risk.

If the person is unresponsive and not breathing normally:

Call 999, start CPR and use the AED.

Why People Should Not Be Afraid to Use an AED

One of the biggest barriers to public AED use is fear of doing something wrong.

Modern AEDs are designed to make the process as straightforward as possible.

They:

• analyse the heart rhythm automatically;
• tell you where to place the pads;
• tell you when to stand clear;
• decide whether a shock is appropriate;
• guide you back to CPR; and
• continue giving instructions throughout the emergency.

The important thing is to act.

Semi-Automatic vs Fully Automatic AEDs

Both types analyse the heart rhythm automatically.

Semi-Automatic AED

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

Shop Semi-Automatic Defibrillators

Fully Automatic AED

A fully automatic AED analyses the rhythm and delivers the shock automatically after warning rescuers to stand clear.

Shop Fully Automatic Defibrillators

Both are designed for straightforward use during a cardiac arrest.

Should Workplaces Have an AED?

There is no general UK law requiring every workplace to provide an AED.

However, organisations can consider AED provision as part of their first-aid needs assessment.

Factors may include:

• number of employees and visitors;
• site size;
• access to emergency medical services;
• physical activity taking place;
• existing nearby AED provision; and
• how quickly a defibrillator could reach a casualty.

Our Free Defibrillator Site Assessment Form can help organisations assess AED provision, location and accessibility.

Where Should an AED Be Kept?

An AED should be:

• easy to find;
• clearly signposted;
• readily accessible;
• maintained in emergency-ready condition; and
• protected appropriately for its environment.

For public-access AEDs, current Resuscitation Council UK guidance recommends clear signage, unlocked cabinets and 24/7 access where possible.

Risk Assessment Products supplies:

AED Cabinets & Cases

and

AED Signs & Posters

for indoor and outdoor AED installations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a defibrillator kill someone?

AEDs are designed to be very safe. They analyse the heart rhythm and only advise or deliver a shock when a shockable rhythm is detected. The risk of serious harm from correct AED use is very low.

Can an AED shock someone who does not need it?

AEDs are designed not to allow a shock unless they detect a rhythm suitable for defibrillation.

Can the rescuer get electrocuted?

The risk is very low. Make sure nobody is touching the casualty when the AED is analysing the rhythm or delivering a shock.

Can you use an AED in the rain?

AED use is generally safe in wet conditions, but dry the casualty’s chest so the pads will adhere properly and do not touch the casualty during shock delivery.

Can you use a defibrillator on a child?

Yes. Use paediatric mode or attenuated settings for children under approximately 8 years or 25 kg where available. If not available, do not delay - use the AED in standard adult mode.

Can you use an AED on a pregnant woman?

Yes. Pregnancy is not a reason to withhold or delay defibrillation.

Do you need training to use a defibrillator?

No. Anyone can use an AED. Training can improve confidence, but public-access AEDs are designed to guide inexperienced rescuers.

AEDs Are Designed to Save Lives

A defibrillator should not be something people are afraid to use.

Public-access AEDs are designed to:

• analyse the heart rhythm;
• prevent inappropriate shocks;
• guide the rescuer;
• support CPR; and
• deliver defibrillation when it is needed.

If someone is unresponsive and not breathing normally, call 999, start CPR and use an AED as soon as possible.

Risk Assessment Products supplies:

• Defibrillators & AEDs
• Defibrillator Packages
• AED Cabinets & Cases
• AED Trainers
• CPR Training Manikins

For organisations unsure which AED is suitable, contact Risk Assessment Products for product advice.