<![CDATA[Risk Assessment Products: Latest News]]> https://risk-assessment-products.co.uk Mon, 20 Apr 2026 02:48:22 +0000 <![CDATA[How many lives are saved by defibrillators in the UK?]]> https://risk-assessment-products.co.uk/blog/how-many-lives-are-saved-by-defibrillators-in-the-uk/ Fri, 03 Apr 2026 12:59:47 +0000 https://risk-assessment-products.co.uk/blog/how-many-lives-are-saved-by-defibrillators-in-the-uk/ Defibrillators are an essential part of the emergency response to out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA). However, the UK does not publish a single national figure for “lives saved by defibrillators alone”, because survival depends on multiple linked steps: early recognition, calling 999, immediate CPR, early defibrillation (by a public AED and/or ambulance crews), and subsequent hospital care.

Instead, the most reliable way to describe the impact of defibrillators is to use published UK data on:

  • how often out-of-hospital cardiac arrest occurs,
  • survival rates,
  • public access defibrillator (PAD) use,
  • and the effect of early defibrillation.

UK headline figures on out-of-hospital cardiac arrest

The British Heart Foundation (BHF) reports that in the UK there are over 30,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests each year where emergency medical services attempt resuscitation, and that the survival rate is less than 1 in 10.

These figures help explain why public CPR knowledge and rapid access to an AED are repeatedly highlighted in UK cardiac arrest strategy and guidance.

England’s OHCA outcomes reporting (a “lives saved” view)

England’s Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest Outcomes (OHCAO) programme provides detailed annual reporting. In the English Ambulance Services 2024 overview (published by the University of Warwick), the report shows:

  • 29,241 resuscitation attempts recorded (with a note that one ambulance service did not submit 2024 data),
  • 30-day survival: 9.5% (all cases),
  • “Lives saved”: 2,738 (as presented in the infographic summary),
  • Public Access Defibrillator (PAD) use: 7.9%,
  • Median EMS response time: 7.2 minutes.

What that does (and doesn’t) mean

  • The 2,738 “lives saved” figure reflects people who survived to 30 days in the reported cohort — it is not a count of people saved by public defibrillators alone.
  • The 7.9% PAD use statistic shows that public defibrillators are used in a minority of cases, indicating scope to increase early defibrillation before ambulance arrival.

Why early defibrillation is time-critical

Survival in cardiac arrest falls rapidly with delay. BHF states that every minute without CPR and a defibrillator reduces survival chances by up to 10%.

Resuscitation Council UK states that defibrillation within 3–5 minutes of collapse may produce survival rates as high as 50–70% in some circumstances.

These statements are widely used in UK resuscitation education because they summarise the central point: fast CPR plus early defibrillation offers the best chance of survival when a shockable rhythm is present.

What a defibrillator (AED) does

An automated external defibrillator (AED) analyses the heart rhythm and, when appropriate, advises or delivers a shock to treat certain life-threatening rhythms. Publicly accessible devices are often described as Public Access Defibrillators (PADs), designed to be used by members of the public with voice prompts and illustrated pad placement.

How many defibrillators are there in the UK?

UK Parliamentary written answers have cited BHF figures showing rapid growth in the national AED register. A written answer dated 22 July 2025 states there are over 110,000 defibrillators registered on The Circuit, and 58.6% are accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

This matters because an AED that is inaccessible (for example, locked inside a building outside opening hours) is less likely to be usable when needed.

The Circuit: improving “findability” in a 999 call

BHF describes The Circuit as the UK’s national defibrillator network, mapping registered defibrillators so ambulance services can locate the nearest registered AED when a bystander calls 999.

NHS England also emphasises that registering a community, workplace or school defibrillator on The Circuit helps emergency call handlers direct bystanders to the nearest device during a 999 call.

What to do if someone collapses (UK actions)

If you think someone is in cardiac arrest (unresponsive and not breathing normally):

  1. Call 999 (put your phone on loudspeaker).
  2. Start chest compressions.
  3. If others are present, send someone to fetch the nearest AED.
  4. Turn it on and follow the prompts. Continue CPR between analyses until help arrives or the person shows clear signs of life.

Several UK ambulance services state that their emergency operations staff can direct 999 callers to the nearest defibrillator and may provide a cabinet code where necessary.

Summary: what the evidence supports

Based on UK-published sources:

  • Out-of-hospital cardiac arrest survival in the UK is less than 1 in 10 overall.
  • England’s OHCAO reporting for 2024 presents 2,738 30-day survivors (“lives saved”) in the reported cohort, with PAD use at 7.9%.
  • Early CPR and early defibrillation are time-critical; survival can fall by up to 10% per minute without them, and defibrillation within 3–5 minutes may be associated with 50–70% survival in some circumstances.
  • There are 110,000+ defibrillators registered on The Circuit, and 58.6% are reported as 24/7 accessible.

Practical steps to improve the chance an AED is used in time

For organisations and communities, UK guidance and reporting supports four practical measures:

  • Register the AED on The Circuit and keep details up to date.
  • Aim for 24/7 access where possible (for example, an external cabinet), to reduce delays.
  • Use clear signage so the AED can be found quickly.
  • Make readiness checks routine (pads and batteries expire; accessibility information must be current).
]]> Defibrillators are an essential part of the emergency response to out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA). However, the UK does not publish a single national figure for “lives saved by defibrillators alone”, because survival depends on multiple linked steps: early recognition, calling 999, immediate CPR, early defibrillation (by a public AED and/or ambulance crews), and subsequent hospital care.

Instead, the most reliable way to describe the impact of defibrillators is to use published UK data on:

  • how often out-of-hospital cardiac arrest occurs,
  • survival rates,
  • public access defibrillator (PAD) use,
  • and the effect of early defibrillation.

UK headline figures on out-of-hospital cardiac arrest

The British Heart Foundation (BHF) reports that in the UK there are over 30,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests each year where emergency medical services attempt resuscitation, and that the survival rate is less than 1 in 10.

These figures help explain why public CPR knowledge and rapid access to an AED are repeatedly highlighted in UK cardiac arrest strategy and guidance.

England’s OHCA outcomes reporting (a “lives saved” view)

England’s Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest Outcomes (OHCAO) programme provides detailed annual reporting. In the English Ambulance Services 2024 overview (published by the University of Warwick), the report shows:

  • 29,241 resuscitation attempts recorded (with a note that one ambulance service did not submit 2024 data),
  • 30-day survival: 9.5% (all cases),
  • “Lives saved”: 2,738 (as presented in the infographic summary),
  • Public Access Defibrillator (PAD) use: 7.9%,
  • Median EMS response time: 7.2 minutes.

What that does (and doesn’t) mean

  • The 2,738 “lives saved” figure reflects people who survived to 30 days in the reported cohort — it is not a count of people saved by public defibrillators alone.
  • The 7.9% PAD use statistic shows that public defibrillators are used in a minority of cases, indicating scope to increase early defibrillation before ambulance arrival.

Why early defibrillation is time-critical

Survival in cardiac arrest falls rapidly with delay. BHF states that every minute without CPR and a defibrillator reduces survival chances by up to 10%.

Resuscitation Council UK states that defibrillation within 3–5 minutes of collapse may produce survival rates as high as 50–70% in some circumstances.

These statements are widely used in UK resuscitation education because they summarise the central point: fast CPR plus early defibrillation offers the best chance of survival when a shockable rhythm is present.

What a defibrillator (AED) does

An automated external defibrillator (AED) analyses the heart rhythm and, when appropriate, advises or delivers a shock to treat certain life-threatening rhythms. Publicly accessible devices are often described as Public Access Defibrillators (PADs), designed to be used by members of the public with voice prompts and illustrated pad placement.

How many defibrillators are there in the UK?

UK Parliamentary written answers have cited BHF figures showing rapid growth in the national AED register. A written answer dated 22 July 2025 states there are over 110,000 defibrillators registered on The Circuit, and 58.6% are accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

This matters because an AED that is inaccessible (for example, locked inside a building outside opening hours) is less likely to be usable when needed.

The Circuit: improving “findability” in a 999 call

BHF describes The Circuit as the UK’s national defibrillator network, mapping registered defibrillators so ambulance services can locate the nearest registered AED when a bystander calls 999.

NHS England also emphasises that registering a community, workplace or school defibrillator on The Circuit helps emergency call handlers direct bystanders to the nearest device during a 999 call.

What to do if someone collapses (UK actions)

If you think someone is in cardiac arrest (unresponsive and not breathing normally):

  1. Call 999 (put your phone on loudspeaker).
  2. Start chest compressions.
  3. If others are present, send someone to fetch the nearest AED.
  4. Turn it on and follow the prompts. Continue CPR between analyses until help arrives or the person shows clear signs of life.

Several UK ambulance services state that their emergency operations staff can direct 999 callers to the nearest defibrillator and may provide a cabinet code where necessary.

Summary: what the evidence supports

Based on UK-published sources:

  • Out-of-hospital cardiac arrest survival in the UK is less than 1 in 10 overall.
  • England’s OHCAO reporting for 2024 presents 2,738 30-day survivors (“lives saved”) in the reported cohort, with PAD use at 7.9%.
  • Early CPR and early defibrillation are time-critical; survival can fall by up to 10% per minute without them, and defibrillation within 3–5 minutes may be associated with 50–70% survival in some circumstances.
  • There are 110,000+ defibrillators registered on The Circuit, and 58.6% are reported as 24/7 accessible.

Practical steps to improve the chance an AED is used in time

For organisations and communities, UK guidance and reporting supports four practical measures:

  • Register the AED on The Circuit and keep details up to date.
  • Aim for 24/7 access where possible (for example, an external cabinet), to reduce delays.
  • Use clear signage so the AED can be found quickly.
  • Make readiness checks routine (pads and batteries expire; accessibility information must be current).
]]> <![CDATA[How many times can you use a defibrillator on a person?]]> https://risk-assessment-products.co.uk/blog/how-many-times-can-you-use-a-defibrillator-on-a-person/ Sun, 15 Feb 2026 18:48:07 +0000 https://risk-assessment-products.co.uk/blog/how-many-times-can-you-use-a-defibrillator-on-a-person/ In an emergency, you can use an automated external defibrillator (AED) as many times as the device advises. The AED analyses the person’s heart rhythm and will only recommend a shock when it believes a shockable rhythm is present. After each analysis, it will guide you through what to do next.

The most important thing is not “how many shocks” — it’s how quickly CPR and defibrillation start. Every minute without CPR and defibrillation can reduce the chance of survival by up to around 10%, which is why acting immediately matters.

What actually happens when you use an AED (and why it may shock more than once)

Most public-access AEDs work in repeating cycles:

  1. The AED analyses the heart rhythm.
  2. If a shock is advised, it instructs you to deliver it (or delivers automatically on some models).
  3. It then tells you to restart CPR straight away.
  4. After a set period (commonly about two minutes), it re-analyses and may advise another shock.

This is why it’s completely possible for an AED to advise multiple shocks during one resuscitation attempt. You simply keep following the prompts.

UK best practice: single shocks, then CPR

UK resuscitation guidance for defibrillation follows a “single shock, then immediate CPR” approach in most situations. In clinical algorithms, a shock is followed by a two-minute cycle of chest compressions before rhythm re-assessment; “stacked shocks” (multiple back-to-back shocks) are reserved for specific, highly monitored scenarios.

For a bystander using an AED, the practical takeaway is simple: do what the AED says, and minimise pauses in chest compressions.

When should you stop using the AED / stop CPR?

If you’ve attached an AED and started CPR, UK public guidance is to continue until:

  • the AED asks you to pause for re-analysis (and it may advise another shock),
  • a paramedic arrives and takes over / tells you what to do,
  • or the person shows clear signs of life.

If you’re alone and getting exhausted, swap with another bystander if possible and keep interruptions to compressions as short as you can. (The emergency call handler can also coach you through CPR.)

A common worry: Can I harm someone by using an AED too many times?

In practice, an AED is designed to reduce the risk of inappropriate shocks by analysing the rhythm and only advising a shock when indicated. Your job is to:

  • switch it on,
  • apply pads as shown on the pictures,
  • stand clear when told,
  • and follow the voice prompts.

What you may need to replace after using a defibrillator

  • This is where “how many times” does matter, for the kit.
  • Electrode pads are single-use and should be replaced after each use.
  • Pads and batteries also have expiry dates, so routine checks matter (many organisations do a quick weekly visual check).

Practical tip for workplaces and venues: keep a spare set of pads on site so the AED can be made “rescue-ready” again quickly after an incident.

Want more information, see our recent article how often should a defibrillator (AED) be checked?

Tip: Register your AED on The Circuit
If you’re responsible for an AED at work or in the community, registering it on The Circuit helps ambulance services locate it when someone calls 999.

If you’d like help with your defibrillator enquiry, please contact us by email at sales@risk-assessment-products.co.uk

]]> In an emergency, you can use an automated external defibrillator (AED) as many times as the device advises. The AED analyses the person’s heart rhythm and will only recommend a shock when it believes a shockable rhythm is present. After each analysis, it will guide you through what to do next.

The most important thing is not “how many shocks” — it’s how quickly CPR and defibrillation start. Every minute without CPR and defibrillation can reduce the chance of survival by up to around 10%, which is why acting immediately matters.

What actually happens when you use an AED (and why it may shock more than once)

Most public-access AEDs work in repeating cycles:

  1. The AED analyses the heart rhythm.
  2. If a shock is advised, it instructs you to deliver it (or delivers automatically on some models).
  3. It then tells you to restart CPR straight away.
  4. After a set period (commonly about two minutes), it re-analyses and may advise another shock.

This is why it’s completely possible for an AED to advise multiple shocks during one resuscitation attempt. You simply keep following the prompts.

UK best practice: single shocks, then CPR

UK resuscitation guidance for defibrillation follows a “single shock, then immediate CPR” approach in most situations. In clinical algorithms, a shock is followed by a two-minute cycle of chest compressions before rhythm re-assessment; “stacked shocks” (multiple back-to-back shocks) are reserved for specific, highly monitored scenarios.

For a bystander using an AED, the practical takeaway is simple: do what the AED says, and minimise pauses in chest compressions.

When should you stop using the AED / stop CPR?

If you’ve attached an AED and started CPR, UK public guidance is to continue until:

  • the AED asks you to pause for re-analysis (and it may advise another shock),
  • a paramedic arrives and takes over / tells you what to do,
  • or the person shows clear signs of life.

If you’re alone and getting exhausted, swap with another bystander if possible and keep interruptions to compressions as short as you can. (The emergency call handler can also coach you through CPR.)

A common worry: Can I harm someone by using an AED too many times?

In practice, an AED is designed to reduce the risk of inappropriate shocks by analysing the rhythm and only advising a shock when indicated. Your job is to:

  • switch it on,
  • apply pads as shown on the pictures,
  • stand clear when told,
  • and follow the voice prompts.

What you may need to replace after using a defibrillator

  • This is where “how many times” does matter, for the kit.
  • Electrode pads are single-use and should be replaced after each use.
  • Pads and batteries also have expiry dates, so routine checks matter (many organisations do a quick weekly visual check).

Practical tip for workplaces and venues: keep a spare set of pads on site so the AED can be made “rescue-ready” again quickly after an incident.

Want more information, see our recent article how often should a defibrillator (AED) be checked?

Tip: Register your AED on The Circuit
If you’re responsible for an AED at work or in the community, registering it on The Circuit helps ambulance services locate it when someone calls 999.

If you’d like help with your defibrillator enquiry, please contact us by email at sales@risk-assessment-products.co.uk

]]> <![CDATA[What is CPR?]]> https://risk-assessment-products.co.uk/blog/what-is-cpr/ Sun, 17 Nov 2024 16:48:52 +0000 https://risk-assessment-products.co.uk/blog/what-is-cpr/ Knowing the basics of first aid and how to deliver CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) can make the difference between life and death. If someone suddenly falls ill, delivering correct CPR can really make all the difference. This blog aims to showcase how to perform CPR and to raise awareness of its importance so that more members of the public know what to do in an emergency. 

About CPR 

Oxygen is what keeps us alive. Without it, our bodies start to shut down as vital organs cannot survive very long without a constant oxygen supply. When we breathe in, oxygen enters the bloodstream and is circulated around our body by the heart. If the heart stops beating, the body experiences a lack of oxygen, as blood is no longer pumped to vital organs. Fortunately, CPR can help to bridge this critical gap. 

CPR is an emergency procedure that restores the flow of oxygenated blood to the body when someone’s heart stops beating. It temporarily takes over the role of the heart and lungs, buying time until professional medical help arrives or a defibrillator can restart the heart. CPR involves chest compressions and, if possible, rescue breaths to manually provide oxygenated blood where it’s needed most. 

Chest Compressions and Rescue Breaths 

For CPR to be effective, chest compressions and rescue breaths must be delivered correctly: 

Chest Compressions 

  1. Place one hand on top of the other and interlock your fingers. 
  2. Use the heel of your bottom hand to press on the sufferer’s chest, at the centre of the breastbone. 
  3. Keep your arms straight and use your upper body weight to push down firmly. 
  4. Push to a depth of 5-6 cm at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute. 
  5. Songs like ‘Stayin’ Alive’ by the Bee Gees can help you keep the correct rhythm. Remember, these compressions need to be firm to ensure they’re effective. 

Rescue Breaths 

  1. Tilt the victim’s head back and lift their chin to open the airway. 
  2. Pinch their nose closed and seal your mouth over theirs. 
  3. Give a normal breath into their lungs for about one second, watching for the chest to rise. 
  4. Repeat for a second breath before resuming compressions. 

If you’re unable or unwilling to give rescue breaths, hands-only CPR can still be lifesaving. Focus on delivering continuous chest compressions. 

Steps to Perform CPR 

As recommended by the British Heart Foundation (BHF), if someone is unresponsive and not breathing normally, follow these steps: 

  1. Shake and shout: Check if they respond to loud commands or gentle shaking. 
  2. Check for breathing: Look for regular chest movements. Gasping or irregular breathing does not count as normal. 
  3. Call 999: Immediately call for emergency assistance, providing as much detail as possible. 
  4. Start chest compressions: Push hard and fast at the centre of their chest. 
  5. Use a defibrillator (if available): Apply the pads and follow the AED’s voice prompts. 
  6. Continue CPR: Alternate 30 compressions with two rescue breaths (if possible) until emergency services arrive or the person starts breathing normally. 

If you have no training or cannot deliver breaths, continue hands-only CPR with uninterrupted compressions. 

CPR Training 

CPR manikins are essential for effective training, allowing participants to practise the correct technique in a safe and controlled environment. 

  • Realistic Design: Manikins mimic the size, weight, and resistance of a human body, giving learners a realistic sense of what it feels like to perform CPR. 
  • Feedback Mechanisms: Many modern manikins provide real-time feedback on compression depth, rate, and hand placement. 
  • Building Confidence: Regular training helps build the confidence needed to act decisively in a real emergency. 

By practising with CPR manikins, learners develop the skills and muscle memory required to perform high-quality CPR when it’s needed most. 

The Role of Defibrillators 

Defibrillators (AEDs) are critical in saving lives during a cardiac arrest. These devices deliver an electric shock to the heart, helping to restore a normal rhythm if necessary. 

  • AEDs are designed to be simple to use, with audio and visual prompts guiding the user step by step. 
  • They are now commonly available in public spaces such as shopping centres, train stations, schools, and sports facilities across the UK. 
  • When used alongside CPR, defibrillators can increase survival rates tenfold, offering the best chance of recovery. 

If a defibrillator is available, it should be used as soon as possible while CPR continues. It is designed for use by anyone, regardless of prior training. 

Legal Protection for Bystanders 

In the UK, the Social Action, Responsibility, and Heroism Act (2015) offers legal protection for individuals who administer CPR or use a defibrillator in good faith. This protection ensures that bystanders can act without fear of legal repercussions, as long as they are genuinely trying to help. 

The Chain of Survival 

The British Heart Foundation highlights the importance of the Chain of Survival, which includes: 

  1. Early recognition of cardiac arrest and calling for help. 
  2. Early CPR to buy time. 
  3. Early defibrillation to restart the heart. 
  4. Post-resuscitation care by medical professionals. 

Every link in this chain is crucial to increasing the chances of survival. 

Conclusion

Knowing how to perform CPR and use a defibrillator can save lives. By equipping workplaces, schools, and communities with CPR training, defibrillators, and the knowledge to act, we can create a nation where more people survive sudden cardiac arrest. 

At Risk Assessment Products Ltd, we provide state-of-the-art defibrillators and high-quality CPR manikins to support training and emergency preparedness. Visit our website or contact us to learn more about our range of lifesaving products and how we can help you make a difference. Together, we can save lives.

]]> Knowing the basics of first aid and how to deliver CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) can make the difference between life and death. If someone suddenly falls ill, delivering correct CPR can really make all the difference. This blog aims to showcase how to perform CPR and to raise awareness of its importance so that more members of the public know what to do in an emergency. 

About CPR 

Oxygen is what keeps us alive. Without it, our bodies start to shut down as vital organs cannot survive very long without a constant oxygen supply. When we breathe in, oxygen enters the bloodstream and is circulated around our body by the heart. If the heart stops beating, the body experiences a lack of oxygen, as blood is no longer pumped to vital organs. Fortunately, CPR can help to bridge this critical gap. 

CPR is an emergency procedure that restores the flow of oxygenated blood to the body when someone’s heart stops beating. It temporarily takes over the role of the heart and lungs, buying time until professional medical help arrives or a defibrillator can restart the heart. CPR involves chest compressions and, if possible, rescue breaths to manually provide oxygenated blood where it’s needed most. 

Chest Compressions and Rescue Breaths 

For CPR to be effective, chest compressions and rescue breaths must be delivered correctly: 

Chest Compressions 

  1. Place one hand on top of the other and interlock your fingers. 
  2. Use the heel of your bottom hand to press on the sufferer’s chest, at the centre of the breastbone. 
  3. Keep your arms straight and use your upper body weight to push down firmly. 
  4. Push to a depth of 5-6 cm at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute. 
  5. Songs like ‘Stayin’ Alive’ by the Bee Gees can help you keep the correct rhythm. Remember, these compressions need to be firm to ensure they’re effective. 

Rescue Breaths 

  1. Tilt the victim’s head back and lift their chin to open the airway. 
  2. Pinch their nose closed and seal your mouth over theirs. 
  3. Give a normal breath into their lungs for about one second, watching for the chest to rise. 
  4. Repeat for a second breath before resuming compressions. 

If you’re unable or unwilling to give rescue breaths, hands-only CPR can still be lifesaving. Focus on delivering continuous chest compressions. 

Steps to Perform CPR 

As recommended by the British Heart Foundation (BHF), if someone is unresponsive and not breathing normally, follow these steps: 

  1. Shake and shout: Check if they respond to loud commands or gentle shaking. 
  2. Check for breathing: Look for regular chest movements. Gasping or irregular breathing does not count as normal. 
  3. Call 999: Immediately call for emergency assistance, providing as much detail as possible. 
  4. Start chest compressions: Push hard and fast at the centre of their chest. 
  5. Use a defibrillator (if available): Apply the pads and follow the AED’s voice prompts. 
  6. Continue CPR: Alternate 30 compressions with two rescue breaths (if possible) until emergency services arrive or the person starts breathing normally. 

If you have no training or cannot deliver breaths, continue hands-only CPR with uninterrupted compressions. 

CPR Training 

CPR manikins are essential for effective training, allowing participants to practise the correct technique in a safe and controlled environment. 

  • Realistic Design: Manikins mimic the size, weight, and resistance of a human body, giving learners a realistic sense of what it feels like to perform CPR. 
  • Feedback Mechanisms: Many modern manikins provide real-time feedback on compression depth, rate, and hand placement. 
  • Building Confidence: Regular training helps build the confidence needed to act decisively in a real emergency. 

By practising with CPR manikins, learners develop the skills and muscle memory required to perform high-quality CPR when it’s needed most. 

The Role of Defibrillators 

Defibrillators (AEDs) are critical in saving lives during a cardiac arrest. These devices deliver an electric shock to the heart, helping to restore a normal rhythm if necessary. 

  • AEDs are designed to be simple to use, with audio and visual prompts guiding the user step by step. 
  • They are now commonly available in public spaces such as shopping centres, train stations, schools, and sports facilities across the UK. 
  • When used alongside CPR, defibrillators can increase survival rates tenfold, offering the best chance of recovery. 

If a defibrillator is available, it should be used as soon as possible while CPR continues. It is designed for use by anyone, regardless of prior training. 

Legal Protection for Bystanders 

In the UK, the Social Action, Responsibility, and Heroism Act (2015) offers legal protection for individuals who administer CPR or use a defibrillator in good faith. This protection ensures that bystanders can act without fear of legal repercussions, as long as they are genuinely trying to help. 

The Chain of Survival 

The British Heart Foundation highlights the importance of the Chain of Survival, which includes: 

  1. Early recognition of cardiac arrest and calling for help. 
  2. Early CPR to buy time. 
  3. Early defibrillation to restart the heart. 
  4. Post-resuscitation care by medical professionals. 

Every link in this chain is crucial to increasing the chances of survival. 

Conclusion

Knowing how to perform CPR and use a defibrillator can save lives. By equipping workplaces, schools, and communities with CPR training, defibrillators, and the knowledge to act, we can create a nation where more people survive sudden cardiac arrest. 

At Risk Assessment Products Ltd, we provide state-of-the-art defibrillators and high-quality CPR manikins to support training and emergency preparedness. Visit our website or contact us to learn more about our range of lifesaving products and how we can help you make a difference. Together, we can save lives.

]]> <![CDATA[What is a sudden cardiac arrest (SCA)?]]> https://risk-assessment-products.co.uk/blog/what-is-a-sudden-cardiac-arrest-sca/ Sun, 17 Nov 2024 16:16:49 +0000 https://risk-assessment-products.co.uk/blog/what-is-a-sudden-cardiac-arrest-sca/ Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) is a critical medical emergency where the heart abruptly ceases to function, leading to an immediate halt in blood circulation. This sudden cessation can result in loss of consciousness and, if not promptly addressed, can be fatal within minutes. 

Understanding Sudden Cardiac Arrest 

Unlike a heart attack, which is caused by a blockage impeding blood flow to the heart muscle, SCA is primarily an electrical malfunction that disrupts the heart's rhythm. This disruption often leads to arrhythmias, with ventricular fibrillation being the most common type associated with SCA. In ventricular fibrillation, the heart's ventricles quiver ineffectively instead of pumping blood, leading to a rapid decline in blood circulation.

Common Causes of SCA

Several factors can precipitate SCA, including: 

  • Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): The most prevalent cause, CAD involves the narrowing or blockage of coronary arteries due to plaque buildup, which can lead to arrhythmias and SCA.
  • Structural Heart Abnormalities: Conditions such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, characterized by the thickening of the heart muscle, can disrupt normal electrical pathways, increasing the risk of SCA.
  • Inherited Arrhythmia Syndromes: Genetic disorders like Long QT Syndrome and Brugada Syndrome affect the heart's electrical stability, making individuals more susceptible to sudden arrhythmic events. 

Recognizing the Signs 

SCA often occurs without warning. However, some individuals may experience prior symptoms such as: 

  • Chest Pain or Discomfort: A sensation of pressure, squeezing, or fullness in the chest. 
  • Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing or a feeling of breathlessness. 
  • Palpitations: Noticeably rapid, strong, or irregular heartbeats. 
  • Dizziness or Lightheadedness: Feeling faint or unsteady. 

It's crucial to note that these symptoms can precede SCA by minutes, hours, or even days. Immediate medical attention is essential if any of these signs are present. 

Immediate Response and Treatment 

The prognosis of SCA heavily depends on the speed and effectiveness of the response: 

  1. Early Recognition and Activation of Emergency Services: Recognizing the emergency and calling emergency services immediately is the first step in the chain of survival. 
  2. Prompt Initiation of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR): Administering high-quality CPR helps maintain vital blood flow to the organs until professional help arrives. 
  3. Rapid Defibrillation: Using an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) can restore a normal heart rhythm. AEDs are designed for public use and provide step-by-step instructions. 
  4. Advanced Medical Care: Upon arrival, emergency medical personnel can provide advanced life support, including medication administration and advanced airway management. 

Prevention and Preparedness 

While not all instances of SCA can be prevented, certain measures can reduce the risk: 

  • Regular Health Check-ups: Routine medical examinations can help identify and manage risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. 
  • Lifestyle Modifications: Adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and smoking cessation, can significantly lower the risk of heart disease. 
  • Community Training: Encouraging CPR and AED training within communities can empower bystanders to act swiftly during emergencies, improving survival rates. 

Understanding SCA and the critical importance of immediate intervention can save lives. By staying informed and prepared, individuals and communities can make a significant difference in outcomes related to sudden cardiac events. 

Be Prepared to Save a Life 

Sudden Cardiac Arrest can happen to anyone, anytime, anywhere. Having a defibrillator on hand can make the difference between life and death. Equip your home, workplace, or community with a life-saving defibrillator today. 

Explore Defibrillators Now 

Don't wait until it's too late – take action and be ready to respond!

]]> Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) is a critical medical emergency where the heart abruptly ceases to function, leading to an immediate halt in blood circulation. This sudden cessation can result in loss of consciousness and, if not promptly addressed, can be fatal within minutes. 

Understanding Sudden Cardiac Arrest 

Unlike a heart attack, which is caused by a blockage impeding blood flow to the heart muscle, SCA is primarily an electrical malfunction that disrupts the heart's rhythm. This disruption often leads to arrhythmias, with ventricular fibrillation being the most common type associated with SCA. In ventricular fibrillation, the heart's ventricles quiver ineffectively instead of pumping blood, leading to a rapid decline in blood circulation.

Common Causes of SCA

Several factors can precipitate SCA, including: 

  • Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): The most prevalent cause, CAD involves the narrowing or blockage of coronary arteries due to plaque buildup, which can lead to arrhythmias and SCA.
  • Structural Heart Abnormalities: Conditions such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, characterized by the thickening of the heart muscle, can disrupt normal electrical pathways, increasing the risk of SCA.
  • Inherited Arrhythmia Syndromes: Genetic disorders like Long QT Syndrome and Brugada Syndrome affect the heart's electrical stability, making individuals more susceptible to sudden arrhythmic events. 

Recognizing the Signs 

SCA often occurs without warning. However, some individuals may experience prior symptoms such as: 

  • Chest Pain or Discomfort: A sensation of pressure, squeezing, or fullness in the chest. 
  • Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing or a feeling of breathlessness. 
  • Palpitations: Noticeably rapid, strong, or irregular heartbeats. 
  • Dizziness or Lightheadedness: Feeling faint or unsteady. 

It's crucial to note that these symptoms can precede SCA by minutes, hours, or even days. Immediate medical attention is essential if any of these signs are present. 

Immediate Response and Treatment 

The prognosis of SCA heavily depends on the speed and effectiveness of the response: 

  1. Early Recognition and Activation of Emergency Services: Recognizing the emergency and calling emergency services immediately is the first step in the chain of survival. 
  2. Prompt Initiation of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR): Administering high-quality CPR helps maintain vital blood flow to the organs until professional help arrives. 
  3. Rapid Defibrillation: Using an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) can restore a normal heart rhythm. AEDs are designed for public use and provide step-by-step instructions. 
  4. Advanced Medical Care: Upon arrival, emergency medical personnel can provide advanced life support, including medication administration and advanced airway management. 

Prevention and Preparedness 

While not all instances of SCA can be prevented, certain measures can reduce the risk: 

  • Regular Health Check-ups: Routine medical examinations can help identify and manage risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. 
  • Lifestyle Modifications: Adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and smoking cessation, can significantly lower the risk of heart disease. 
  • Community Training: Encouraging CPR and AED training within communities can empower bystanders to act swiftly during emergencies, improving survival rates. 

Understanding SCA and the critical importance of immediate intervention can save lives. By staying informed and prepared, individuals and communities can make a significant difference in outcomes related to sudden cardiac events. 

Be Prepared to Save a Life 

Sudden Cardiac Arrest can happen to anyone, anytime, anywhere. Having a defibrillator on hand can make the difference between life and death. Equip your home, workplace, or community with a life-saving defibrillator today. 

Explore Defibrillators Now 

Don't wait until it's too late – take action and be ready to respond!

]]> <![CDATA[Empowering Communities: The Lifesaving Impact of CPR on Restart a Heart Day]]> https://risk-assessment-products.co.uk/blog/empowering-communities-the-lifesaving-impact-of-cpr-on-restart-a-heart-day/ Mon, 16 Oct 2023 16:32:09 +0000 https://risk-assessment-products.co.uk/blog/empowering-communities-the-lifesaving-impact-of-cpr-on-restart-a-heart-day/ Every year, on and around October 16th, an important event takes place - Restart a Heart Day. This annual awareness initiative is not just any ordinary day; it's a day that can make the difference between life and death. Restart a Heart Day focuses on the importance of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and its potential to save lives during cardiac emergencies. In collaboration with the Resuscitation Council UK, the British Heart Foundation (BHF), the British Red Cross, and other partners, this day seeks to educate the public, increase CPR knowledge, and ultimately raise the chances of survival for cardiac arrest victims. 

The Significance of Restart a Heart Day

Restart a Heart Day is a critical initiative because cardiac emergencies can happen to anyone, anywhere, at any time. Often, the difference between life and death in such situations is the presence of someone who knows how to perform CPR effectively. This day serves as a reminder of the crucial role CPR plays in saving lives. 

Partnerships for Impact 

The Resuscitation Council UK, in collaboration with renowned organizations like the British Heart Foundation and the British Red Cross, brings substantial credibility and reach to Restart a Heart Day. These partnerships ensure that the message of CPR awareness reaches far and wide, touching the lives of countless individuals. 

The Mission: Educate and Empower 

The primary mission of Restart a Heart Day is to educate the public about the significance of timely CPR. CPR is a technique that can be learned by almost anyone, and it's not just for medical professionals. By increasing awareness and knowledge about CPR, the initiative aims to empower everyday citizens to take action during cardiac emergencies. 

Community Engagement 

One of the hallmarks of Restart a Heart Day is the numerous events and training sessions organized around this day. These events engage the community, giving people the opportunity to learn and practice CPR skills. Whether it's a local CPR workshop, a school-based training session, or an awareness event at your workplace, these initiatives are designed to ensure that every individual is equipped with the knowledge and confidence to respond effectively during cardiac emergencies. 

The Lifesaving Potential of CPR 

Understanding the lifesaving potential of CPR is essential. When performed promptly and correctly, CPR can help maintain blood circulation and provide oxygen to the brain and vital organs until professional medical help arrives. This can significantly increase the chances of survival for someone experiencing a cardiac arrest. 

The Role of Defibrillators 

In addition to CPR training, another crucial aspect of Restart a Heart Day is the promotion of defibrillators. These life-saving devices can analyze a person's heart rhythm and deliver a controlled electric shock if necessary, restoring normal heart rhythm. Defibrillators are an integral part of the chain of survival during cardiac emergencies, working hand-in-hand with CPR. 

The Defibrillator Products We Offer 

At Risk Assessment Products, we understand the importance of equipping communities with the tools they need to respond effectively during cardiac emergencies. That's why we offer a range of high-quality defibrillator products designed for ease of use and reliability. 

Our defibrillator products are: 

User-Friendly: Our defibrillators are designed with user-friendliness in mind. They come with clear instructions and voice-guided prompts, making them suitable for anyone, even those without medical training. 

Reliable: When a cardiac emergency occurs, you need equipment that you can rely on. Our defibrillators are known for their durability and effectiveness. 

Accessible: We offer defibrillator options for various settings, from workplaces and schools to community centers and public spaces. Having a defibrillator readily available can be the difference between life and death. 

Training and Support: Alongside our defibrillator products, we can provide training and support to ensure that individuals and organizations are prepared to use them effectively. 

Restart a Heart Day is more than just an annual awareness initiative; it's a day that has the potential to save lives. By promoting CPR awareness and the importance of defibrillators, we can empower communities to respond effectively during cardiac emergencies. At Risk Assessment Products, we are committed to providing high-quality defibrillator products and support to help make this mission a reality. Join us in making a difference, because together, we can restart hearts and save lives.

]]> Every year, on and around October 16th, an important event takes place - Restart a Heart Day. This annual awareness initiative is not just any ordinary day; it's a day that can make the difference between life and death. Restart a Heart Day focuses on the importance of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and its potential to save lives during cardiac emergencies. In collaboration with the Resuscitation Council UK, the British Heart Foundation (BHF), the British Red Cross, and other partners, this day seeks to educate the public, increase CPR knowledge, and ultimately raise the chances of survival for cardiac arrest victims. 

The Significance of Restart a Heart Day

Restart a Heart Day is a critical initiative because cardiac emergencies can happen to anyone, anywhere, at any time. Often, the difference between life and death in such situations is the presence of someone who knows how to perform CPR effectively. This day serves as a reminder of the crucial role CPR plays in saving lives. 

Partnerships for Impact 

The Resuscitation Council UK, in collaboration with renowned organizations like the British Heart Foundation and the British Red Cross, brings substantial credibility and reach to Restart a Heart Day. These partnerships ensure that the message of CPR awareness reaches far and wide, touching the lives of countless individuals. 

The Mission: Educate and Empower 

The primary mission of Restart a Heart Day is to educate the public about the significance of timely CPR. CPR is a technique that can be learned by almost anyone, and it's not just for medical professionals. By increasing awareness and knowledge about CPR, the initiative aims to empower everyday citizens to take action during cardiac emergencies. 

Community Engagement 

One of the hallmarks of Restart a Heart Day is the numerous events and training sessions organized around this day. These events engage the community, giving people the opportunity to learn and practice CPR skills. Whether it's a local CPR workshop, a school-based training session, or an awareness event at your workplace, these initiatives are designed to ensure that every individual is equipped with the knowledge and confidence to respond effectively during cardiac emergencies. 

The Lifesaving Potential of CPR 

Understanding the lifesaving potential of CPR is essential. When performed promptly and correctly, CPR can help maintain blood circulation and provide oxygen to the brain and vital organs until professional medical help arrives. This can significantly increase the chances of survival for someone experiencing a cardiac arrest. 

The Role of Defibrillators 

In addition to CPR training, another crucial aspect of Restart a Heart Day is the promotion of defibrillators. These life-saving devices can analyze a person's heart rhythm and deliver a controlled electric shock if necessary, restoring normal heart rhythm. Defibrillators are an integral part of the chain of survival during cardiac emergencies, working hand-in-hand with CPR. 

The Defibrillator Products We Offer 

At Risk Assessment Products, we understand the importance of equipping communities with the tools they need to respond effectively during cardiac emergencies. That's why we offer a range of high-quality defibrillator products designed for ease of use and reliability. 

Our defibrillator products are: 

User-Friendly: Our defibrillators are designed with user-friendliness in mind. They come with clear instructions and voice-guided prompts, making them suitable for anyone, even those without medical training. 

Reliable: When a cardiac emergency occurs, you need equipment that you can rely on. Our defibrillators are known for their durability and effectiveness. 

Accessible: We offer defibrillator options for various settings, from workplaces and schools to community centers and public spaces. Having a defibrillator readily available can be the difference between life and death. 

Training and Support: Alongside our defibrillator products, we can provide training and support to ensure that individuals and organizations are prepared to use them effectively. 

Restart a Heart Day is more than just an annual awareness initiative; it's a day that has the potential to save lives. By promoting CPR awareness and the importance of defibrillators, we can empower communities to respond effectively during cardiac emergencies. At Risk Assessment Products, we are committed to providing high-quality defibrillator products and support to help make this mission a reality. Join us in making a difference, because together, we can restart hearts and save lives.

]]> <![CDATA[Which home defibrillator?]]> https://risk-assessment-products.co.uk/blog/which-home-defibrillator/ Sun, 04 Dec 2022 16:30:36 +0000 https://risk-assessment-products.co.uk/blog/which-home-defibrillator/ 80% of all out of hospital cardiac arrests occur at home. Defibrillators are often available in local communities, supermarkets, sports facilities and places of work but, not very often at home. Having a defibrillator at home gives thousands of people peace of mind. Whether themselves or a family member have a medical history of heart problems or, they would like a defibrillator for additional security, it’s a good idea to take a look around to weigh up your options and decide which is best for you. 

When a cardiac arrest occurs, every minute that goes by without a defibrillator can reduce the chances of survival by up to 10% so, even if medical professionals are a matter of minutes away, it could still be fatal. 

Home defibrillators will be of course, mostly stored indoors. This means you don’t need to worry about finding a defibrillator that is particularly repellent to water, dust and dirt. It’s a good idea to opt for a lightweight defibrillator so that you can easily transport it if going on journeys and want to take it with you. 

Although all defibrillators are designed with ease of use in mind, defibrillator training is also a good idea but, not mandatory. Training will allow you to understand exactly what to do in an emergency however, defibrillators have audio and visual guides to direct you through the process meaning you have guidance throughout until the emergency services arrive. 

Of course, cardiac arrests do not happen all of the time and if lucky, you won’t need to ever use your defibrillator but, the peace of mind in having one is really beneficial. With most community defibrillators or defibrillators stored in workplaces and supermarkets having a much higher footfall passing them every day, the chances that it would need to be used are of course much higher. As your defibrillator will remain at home however, this wouldn’t be the case. 

A defibrillator with a long warranty means that you can have it for years at a time without needing to do much. Checks every now and again are required and it’s important to ensure that the defibrillator pads aren’t out of date but, most defibrillators have a long battery life meaning they can be ready to function for years without the need to change the battery. 

There are some additional things to consider when it comes to purchasing a defibrillator for home use such as the cost. Defibrillators are certainly investment and with that comes somewhat of a price tag. The price range for a defibrillator usually starts at around £1,000. But, once you have one, they are really affordable to run. 

We hope this information has helped you when it comes to searching for the most suitable home defibrillator. You can browse our entire range of defibrillators here or, get in touch for more information.

]]> 80% of all out of hospital cardiac arrests occur at home. Defibrillators are often available in local communities, supermarkets, sports facilities and places of work but, not very often at home. Having a defibrillator at home gives thousands of people peace of mind. Whether themselves or a family member have a medical history of heart problems or, they would like a defibrillator for additional security, it’s a good idea to take a look around to weigh up your options and decide which is best for you. 

When a cardiac arrest occurs, every minute that goes by without a defibrillator can reduce the chances of survival by up to 10% so, even if medical professionals are a matter of minutes away, it could still be fatal. 

Home defibrillators will be of course, mostly stored indoors. This means you don’t need to worry about finding a defibrillator that is particularly repellent to water, dust and dirt. It’s a good idea to opt for a lightweight defibrillator so that you can easily transport it if going on journeys and want to take it with you. 

Although all defibrillators are designed with ease of use in mind, defibrillator training is also a good idea but, not mandatory. Training will allow you to understand exactly what to do in an emergency however, defibrillators have audio and visual guides to direct you through the process meaning you have guidance throughout until the emergency services arrive. 

Of course, cardiac arrests do not happen all of the time and if lucky, you won’t need to ever use your defibrillator but, the peace of mind in having one is really beneficial. With most community defibrillators or defibrillators stored in workplaces and supermarkets having a much higher footfall passing them every day, the chances that it would need to be used are of course much higher. As your defibrillator will remain at home however, this wouldn’t be the case. 

A defibrillator with a long warranty means that you can have it for years at a time without needing to do much. Checks every now and again are required and it’s important to ensure that the defibrillator pads aren’t out of date but, most defibrillators have a long battery life meaning they can be ready to function for years without the need to change the battery. 

There are some additional things to consider when it comes to purchasing a defibrillator for home use such as the cost. Defibrillators are certainly investment and with that comes somewhat of a price tag. The price range for a defibrillator usually starts at around £1,000. But, once you have one, they are really affordable to run. 

We hope this information has helped you when it comes to searching for the most suitable home defibrillator. You can browse our entire range of defibrillators here or, get in touch for more information.

]]> <![CDATA[Which defibrillator should I buy?]]> https://risk-assessment-products.co.uk/blog/which-defibrillator-should-i-buy/ Fri, 04 Nov 2022 15:03:03 +0000 https://risk-assessment-products.co.uk/blog/which-defibrillator-should-i-buy/ There are many defibrillators available on the market and it can become overwhelming knowing which one is the best option for you. There are a number of factors which may determine your choice including; where it will be stored and who it will be most likely used for. 

Defibrillators as we know them today have actually been around since the 1930’s. Although thankfully there have been many developments since, the basic principle is still the same. An electric shock from the defibrillator is delivered to the heart in order for it to stop the heart, so that it can begin beating again at it’s natural pace. 

As science and medicine progresses over the years, newer, more advanced defibrillators are being released. Whether they are more weather resistant, lighter and easier to carry or provide real time feedback, it is safe to say that defibrillators are a medical device that we just couldn’t live without. But, to choose the right one for you, there are a few things to consider. 

Where will your defibrillator be stored? 

Thinking about where your defibrillator will be stored when not in use is a really important factor to remember when choosing the right defibrillator for you. For example, if you are looking a defibrillator to be stored in your local community, you would be best searching for one that has clear visual and audio guides so that any member of the public can use it. As well as a defibrillator which has a strong outer casting to repel water and dirt, such as this one here. 

Community defibrillators are always stored in a yellow, green or red cabinet so that they can be safely stored whilst being visible in an emergency. If on the other hand, you are looking for a defibrillator for a sports centre, you don’t need to worry so much about a cabinet but, might want to consider a defibrillator that is lightweight and can be quickly transported when needed. An 8-year warranty, low maintenance, hard wearing to military standards and lightweight at 1.9k, this defibrillator is idea for sports centres. 

Who will your defibrillator be most likely used for? 

Cardiac arrests can happen to anyone at any time. This means both children and adults are susceptible to falling ill and unfortunately, they mostly come with prior warning. That’s what makes them so deadly. 

If your defibrillator will be more than likely used on children, such as in a school or play gym, you should think about a defibrillator that is suitable for both adults and children. This is because children between the ages of one and eight required a lower shock frequency than those older. With this, opting for a defibrillator that can be switched between adult and child mode can save precious seconds which, can ultimately make the difference between life and death. A defibrillator such as this one with a child switch is a great choice. 

In the UK, there are around 30,000 out of hospital cardiac arrests which happen every year with only one in ten surviving. It’s this reason why many businesses across the country have defibrillators in case their staff or, visitors fall ill - it really could save a life. With this, defibrillators for offices should have clear and easy to understand verbal instructions so it can be heard over background office noise. Low maintenance, an ambient noise detector and a CPR to shock time of less than 6 seconds, this defibrillator is a great choice for businesses. 

If you’re still unsure as to which defibrillator is the best option for you, take a look at look at our defibrillator collection for more ideas.

]]> There are many defibrillators available on the market and it can become overwhelming knowing which one is the best option for you. There are a number of factors which may determine your choice including; where it will be stored and who it will be most likely used for. 

Defibrillators as we know them today have actually been around since the 1930’s. Although thankfully there have been many developments since, the basic principle is still the same. An electric shock from the defibrillator is delivered to the heart in order for it to stop the heart, so that it can begin beating again at it’s natural pace. 

As science and medicine progresses over the years, newer, more advanced defibrillators are being released. Whether they are more weather resistant, lighter and easier to carry or provide real time feedback, it is safe to say that defibrillators are a medical device that we just couldn’t live without. But, to choose the right one for you, there are a few things to consider. 

Where will your defibrillator be stored? 

Thinking about where your defibrillator will be stored when not in use is a really important factor to remember when choosing the right defibrillator for you. For example, if you are looking a defibrillator to be stored in your local community, you would be best searching for one that has clear visual and audio guides so that any member of the public can use it. As well as a defibrillator which has a strong outer casting to repel water and dirt, such as this one here. 

Community defibrillators are always stored in a yellow, green or red cabinet so that they can be safely stored whilst being visible in an emergency. If on the other hand, you are looking for a defibrillator for a sports centre, you don’t need to worry so much about a cabinet but, might want to consider a defibrillator that is lightweight and can be quickly transported when needed. An 8-year warranty, low maintenance, hard wearing to military standards and lightweight at 1.9k, this defibrillator is idea for sports centres. 

Who will your defibrillator be most likely used for? 

Cardiac arrests can happen to anyone at any time. This means both children and adults are susceptible to falling ill and unfortunately, they mostly come with prior warning. That’s what makes them so deadly. 

If your defibrillator will be more than likely used on children, such as in a school or play gym, you should think about a defibrillator that is suitable for both adults and children. This is because children between the ages of one and eight required a lower shock frequency than those older. With this, opting for a defibrillator that can be switched between adult and child mode can save precious seconds which, can ultimately make the difference between life and death. A defibrillator such as this one with a child switch is a great choice. 

In the UK, there are around 30,000 out of hospital cardiac arrests which happen every year with only one in ten surviving. It’s this reason why many businesses across the country have defibrillators in case their staff or, visitors fall ill - it really could save a life. With this, defibrillators for offices should have clear and easy to understand verbal instructions so it can be heard over background office noise. Low maintenance, an ambient noise detector and a CPR to shock time of less than 6 seconds, this defibrillator is a great choice for businesses. 

If you’re still unsure as to which defibrillator is the best option for you, take a look at look at our defibrillator collection for more ideas.

]]> <![CDATA[Where should defibrillator pads be placed?]]> https://risk-assessment-products.co.uk/blog/where-should-defibrillator-pads-be-placed/ Sun, 16 Oct 2022 15:51:57 +0000 https://risk-assessment-products.co.uk/blog/where-should-defibrillator-pads-be-placed/ Defibrillators should be used when someone suffers a sudden cardiac arrest. These can occur to anyone, at any time regardless of age, gender or sex. It is really important to act as quickly as possible if someone is suffering a cardiac arrest as unfortunately, the chances of survival are very slim. 

According to the British Heart Foundation, deaths from heart and circulatory diseases occur every one to three minutes. In 2020, 168,319 deaths occurred due to such causes. These range between anything from disease of the arteries to cardiomyopathy and arrhythmias (over 31,000). 

To ensure more people survive a sudden cardiac arrest, the British Heart Foundation continually conduct research. They took a look at the number of resuscitation attempts compared to the survival to discharge. In the year 2020 to 2021, resuscitation attempts increased to 31,400 whilst the percentage of people discharged from hospital alive decreased to 8.1%. This shows how important it is to act as quickly as possible when someone near you suffers a sudden cardiac arrest. You can learn more about these statistics here.

How to spot if someone is having a cardiac arrest 

You’ll soon be able to notice if someone you are with is suffering a cardiac arrest. Often confused with a heart attack but, very different, a cardiac arrest is caused by an electrical fault with the heart. This means the patient will fall unconscious, will stop breathing and will be unresponsive. 

What do defibrillator pads do? 

Defibrillators work by scanning the heart to determine whether a shock is needed and if so, will deliver one. This is to help it return to it’s natural pace so it can beat as normal once again. Although this sounds straightforward, a defibrillator is a very complex medical device which has the ability to store data, scan the heart and even shock it in order to save a life. Many years of research has been carried out in order to get the modern day defibrillator to the standard that it is at today. But, what do the electrode pads do? 

When you open a defibrillator, one of the very first steps that you will be told to do, is to place the defibrillator pads on the patients chest. These pads are adhesive and they deliver electricity through the chest wall, to the heart muscle. 

It is important to place the defibrillator pads in the correct place on the patients chest in order for it to deliver the shock correctly and so that as much electrical current can pass through the heart as possible. 

The first defibrillator pad should be placed on the upper right side of the chest, below the collarbone with the second pad being placed on the left side below the armpit. This does however alert with children. The first pad goes on the centre of the chest and pad two should be placed in the centre of the child’s back. Paediatric pads lower the joule output from the defibrillator to protect the child’s heart. Paediatric pads are suitable for children aged one to eight. 

You also need to remember that the patients chest needs to be bare and that you should remove any jewellery such as nipple piercings and necklaces. You don’t need to worry about whether the patient has a pacemaker fit or has tattoos, these won’t affect the performance of a defibrillator. 

If you are with someone who is suffering a cardiac arrest it’s important to act fast. Call the emergency services, begin CPR and use a defibrillator.

]]> Defibrillators should be used when someone suffers a sudden cardiac arrest. These can occur to anyone, at any time regardless of age, gender or sex. It is really important to act as quickly as possible if someone is suffering a cardiac arrest as unfortunately, the chances of survival are very slim. 

According to the British Heart Foundation, deaths from heart and circulatory diseases occur every one to three minutes. In 2020, 168,319 deaths occurred due to such causes. These range between anything from disease of the arteries to cardiomyopathy and arrhythmias (over 31,000). 

To ensure more people survive a sudden cardiac arrest, the British Heart Foundation continually conduct research. They took a look at the number of resuscitation attempts compared to the survival to discharge. In the year 2020 to 2021, resuscitation attempts increased to 31,400 whilst the percentage of people discharged from hospital alive decreased to 8.1%. This shows how important it is to act as quickly as possible when someone near you suffers a sudden cardiac arrest. You can learn more about these statistics here.

How to spot if someone is having a cardiac arrest 

You’ll soon be able to notice if someone you are with is suffering a cardiac arrest. Often confused with a heart attack but, very different, a cardiac arrest is caused by an electrical fault with the heart. This means the patient will fall unconscious, will stop breathing and will be unresponsive. 

What do defibrillator pads do? 

Defibrillators work by scanning the heart to determine whether a shock is needed and if so, will deliver one. This is to help it return to it’s natural pace so it can beat as normal once again. Although this sounds straightforward, a defibrillator is a very complex medical device which has the ability to store data, scan the heart and even shock it in order to save a life. Many years of research has been carried out in order to get the modern day defibrillator to the standard that it is at today. But, what do the electrode pads do? 

When you open a defibrillator, one of the very first steps that you will be told to do, is to place the defibrillator pads on the patients chest. These pads are adhesive and they deliver electricity through the chest wall, to the heart muscle. 

It is important to place the defibrillator pads in the correct place on the patients chest in order for it to deliver the shock correctly and so that as much electrical current can pass through the heart as possible. 

The first defibrillator pad should be placed on the upper right side of the chest, below the collarbone with the second pad being placed on the left side below the armpit. This does however alert with children. The first pad goes on the centre of the chest and pad two should be placed in the centre of the child’s back. Paediatric pads lower the joule output from the defibrillator to protect the child’s heart. Paediatric pads are suitable for children aged one to eight. 

You also need to remember that the patients chest needs to be bare and that you should remove any jewellery such as nipple piercings and necklaces. You don’t need to worry about whether the patient has a pacemaker fit or has tattoos, these won’t affect the performance of a defibrillator. 

If you are with someone who is suffering a cardiac arrest it’s important to act fast. Call the emergency services, begin CPR and use a defibrillator.

]]> <![CDATA[Where is my nearest defibrillator?]]> https://risk-assessment-products.co.uk/blog/where-is-my-nearest-defibrillator/ Sun, 02 Oct 2022 13:34:19 +0000 https://risk-assessment-products.co.uk/blog/where-is-my-nearest-defibrillator/ Defibrillators can be found in a number of places but, it all depends on where you are. There is a huge drive to have more defibrillators located across the country so that more people have access to life saving care in an emergency. 

Businesses, offices, shops, local communities and sports centres are the most common places where you will find a defibrillator. Establishments that have a high foot fall with many people passing daily usually have a defibrillator nearby so that if anyone suffers a cardiac arrest, care can be given quickly. 

Public access defibrillators (PADs), also known as community defibrillators can be seen mounted on walls in local towns, villages and cities. You will see them stored in a bright coloured box such as yellow, green or red so that they can be easily identified. These defibrillators can be used by anyone in the public to deliver care to a cardiac arrest sufferer. Often, these defibrillators require a code to unlock them for safety reasons however, this can be retrieved by calling the emergency services and giving them a passcode from the security box. 

It is important when out and about, day to day that you look out for where defibrillators are located as you never know when it could be needed. The British Heart Foundation have a National Defibrillator Network called The Circuit. They have joined with the UK’s top health providers to ensure that thousand’s of unregistered defibrillators are added to the centralised network. You can join the circuit and register your defibrillator if you have one, here. 

Defibfinder is a website which allows you to enter your postcode or town so that it brings up all defibrillators near you, where they are located and, when they can be accessed. Also managed and funded by the British Heart Foundation, Defib Finder, helps thousands of people locate defibrillators in an emergency. 

If you feel you would benefit for a defibrillator in your local community, you can apply for part funding through the British Heart Foundation. To be eligible for this you must: 

  • Be able to provide electricity supply so the defibrillator is kept at the correct temperature in cold weather.
  • There must be a clear need for the device e.g a rural area or where there is high footfall.
  • The defibrillator must be kept outside in an unlocked cabinet
  • There must be a commitment to train the local community in CPR using the BHF’s free training. 

To apply, you must meet the above criteria, create an account online and submit your form. Once it has been reviewed, you will be updated on whether or not you have been successful. There are other ways to get a defibrillator however such as through local fundraising so your workplace or local community don’t have to find the full amount to cover the cost. 

Remember, defibrillators make the difference between life and death, keep an eye out for your nearest defibrillator for in the event of an emergency.

]]> Defibrillators can be found in a number of places but, it all depends on where you are. There is a huge drive to have more defibrillators located across the country so that more people have access to life saving care in an emergency. 

Businesses, offices, shops, local communities and sports centres are the most common places where you will find a defibrillator. Establishments that have a high foot fall with many people passing daily usually have a defibrillator nearby so that if anyone suffers a cardiac arrest, care can be given quickly. 

Public access defibrillators (PADs), also known as community defibrillators can be seen mounted on walls in local towns, villages and cities. You will see them stored in a bright coloured box such as yellow, green or red so that they can be easily identified. These defibrillators can be used by anyone in the public to deliver care to a cardiac arrest sufferer. Often, these defibrillators require a code to unlock them for safety reasons however, this can be retrieved by calling the emergency services and giving them a passcode from the security box. 

It is important when out and about, day to day that you look out for where defibrillators are located as you never know when it could be needed. The British Heart Foundation have a National Defibrillator Network called The Circuit. They have joined with the UK’s top health providers to ensure that thousand’s of unregistered defibrillators are added to the centralised network. You can join the circuit and register your defibrillator if you have one, here. 

Defibfinder is a website which allows you to enter your postcode or town so that it brings up all defibrillators near you, where they are located and, when they can be accessed. Also managed and funded by the British Heart Foundation, Defib Finder, helps thousands of people locate defibrillators in an emergency. 

If you feel you would benefit for a defibrillator in your local community, you can apply for part funding through the British Heart Foundation. To be eligible for this you must: 

  • Be able to provide electricity supply so the defibrillator is kept at the correct temperature in cold weather.
  • There must be a clear need for the device e.g a rural area or where there is high footfall.
  • The defibrillator must be kept outside in an unlocked cabinet
  • There must be a commitment to train the local community in CPR using the BHF’s free training. 

To apply, you must meet the above criteria, create an account online and submit your form. Once it has been reviewed, you will be updated on whether or not you have been successful. There are other ways to get a defibrillator however such as through local fundraising so your workplace or local community don’t have to find the full amount to cover the cost. 

Remember, defibrillators make the difference between life and death, keep an eye out for your nearest defibrillator for in the event of an emergency.

]]> <![CDATA[When should a defibrillator be used?]]> https://risk-assessment-products.co.uk/blog/when-should-a-defibrillator-be-used/ Mon, 19 Sep 2022 14:34:38 +0000 https://risk-assessment-products.co.uk/blog/when-should-a-defibrillator-be-used/ A defibrillator should be used when someone is suffering a sudden cardiac arrest. These can happen to anyone, regardless of age, gender or ethnicity so it’s important to have a defibrillator nearby such as at your work, in the local community, in supermarkets and sports facilities. 

What is a cardiac arrest? 

A cardiac arrest occurs when there is an electrical problem with the heart causing it to stop beating properly. They can be caused by arrhythmias where the electrical impulses may happen too fast, too slowly or erratically. The symptoms of a cardiac arrest are immediate and drastic, they include; sudden collapse, no pulse, no breathing and loss of consciousness. Other symptoms prior to a cardiac arrest may include chest discomfort, shortness of breath, heart palpitations or weakness. If you are with someone who suffers a sudden cardiac arrest, you need to act fast. 

What do defibrillators to? 

When you need to use a defibrillator, there will be easy steps to follow to ensure you use it correctly. You must first call the emergency services, begin CPR and locate your nearest defibrillator. From here, the guide will demonstrate what you need to do. Once the electrode pads are place on the patients chest, the defibrillator will begin scanning the heart’s rhythm to determine whether a shock is needed. 

If a shock is required and you have an automatic external defibrillator, it will administer the shock itself. If you have a semi-automatic defibrillator however, it will alert you to press a button which will then administer the shock. A shock from a defibrillator is designed to stop the heart so that it can begin beating again at it’s natural pace. A defibrillator will never shock someone if it is not required. 

What steps should I follow? 

If you are with someone who falls ill and is suffering from a cardiac arrest, you need to act fast. Call the emergency services straight away and begin CPR. Whilst you are doing this, you also need to find your nearest defibrillator. 

Where to find your nearest defibrillator and how to use one 

Defibrillators can be found in supermarkets, sports facilities, office buildings and in local towns and villages. If you can’t find one quickly enough nearby, visit the Defib Finder website here and enter your city or postcode to locate the closest defibrillator to you. Once you have the defibrillator, follow these steps to ensure you deliver the correct care, this includes: 

  1. Turn on the defibrillator by pressing the green button and follow it’s instructions 
  2. Peel away the sticky pads and attach to the patient’s skin - one to each side of the chest 
  3. When the pads are attached, stop performing CPR and don’t touch the patient. The defibrillator will be checking the patients heart rhythm. 
  4. The defibrillator will determine whether a shock is needed. If it is an automatic defibrillator it will do this itself, if semi-automatic it will require you to press a button to administer the shock 
  5. The defibrillator will tell you that the shock has been given and whether or not you need to continue giving CPR. 
  6. Continue with chest compressions until you see sign of life or, until the defibrillator tells you to stop so that it can analyse the heart’s rhythm again. 

Most defibrillators come with audio and visual guides which will prompt you through the entire process until the emergency services arrive. For every minute that a defibrillator is not used, the chances of survival drastically reduce so it’s very important to act fast.

]]> A defibrillator should be used when someone is suffering a sudden cardiac arrest. These can happen to anyone, regardless of age, gender or ethnicity so it’s important to have a defibrillator nearby such as at your work, in the local community, in supermarkets and sports facilities. 

What is a cardiac arrest? 

A cardiac arrest occurs when there is an electrical problem with the heart causing it to stop beating properly. They can be caused by arrhythmias where the electrical impulses may happen too fast, too slowly or erratically. The symptoms of a cardiac arrest are immediate and drastic, they include; sudden collapse, no pulse, no breathing and loss of consciousness. Other symptoms prior to a cardiac arrest may include chest discomfort, shortness of breath, heart palpitations or weakness. If you are with someone who suffers a sudden cardiac arrest, you need to act fast. 

What do defibrillators to? 

When you need to use a defibrillator, there will be easy steps to follow to ensure you use it correctly. You must first call the emergency services, begin CPR and locate your nearest defibrillator. From here, the guide will demonstrate what you need to do. Once the electrode pads are place on the patients chest, the defibrillator will begin scanning the heart’s rhythm to determine whether a shock is needed. 

If a shock is required and you have an automatic external defibrillator, it will administer the shock itself. If you have a semi-automatic defibrillator however, it will alert you to press a button which will then administer the shock. A shock from a defibrillator is designed to stop the heart so that it can begin beating again at it’s natural pace. A defibrillator will never shock someone if it is not required. 

What steps should I follow? 

If you are with someone who falls ill and is suffering from a cardiac arrest, you need to act fast. Call the emergency services straight away and begin CPR. Whilst you are doing this, you also need to find your nearest defibrillator. 

Where to find your nearest defibrillator and how to use one 

Defibrillators can be found in supermarkets, sports facilities, office buildings and in local towns and villages. If you can’t find one quickly enough nearby, visit the Defib Finder website here and enter your city or postcode to locate the closest defibrillator to you. Once you have the defibrillator, follow these steps to ensure you deliver the correct care, this includes: 

  1. Turn on the defibrillator by pressing the green button and follow it’s instructions 
  2. Peel away the sticky pads and attach to the patient’s skin - one to each side of the chest 
  3. When the pads are attached, stop performing CPR and don’t touch the patient. The defibrillator will be checking the patients heart rhythm. 
  4. The defibrillator will determine whether a shock is needed. If it is an automatic defibrillator it will do this itself, if semi-automatic it will require you to press a button to administer the shock 
  5. The defibrillator will tell you that the shock has been given and whether or not you need to continue giving CPR. 
  6. Continue with chest compressions until you see sign of life or, until the defibrillator tells you to stop so that it can analyse the heart’s rhythm again. 

Most defibrillators come with audio and visual guides which will prompt you through the entire process until the emergency services arrive. For every minute that a defibrillator is not used, the chances of survival drastically reduce so it’s very important to act fast.

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