Workplace AED - which unit and where to place it?
A workplace AED (automated external defibrillator) saves lives only if it is close by and ready to use. This guide covers siting, the choice between semi-automatic and fully automatic units, plus maintenance and first-aider training.
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Where should a workplace AED be placed?
In sudden cardiac arrest, time is everything. Survival drops by roughly 10 percent for every minute without defibrillation, so every employee should be able to reach the AED within a 3-minute round trip.
In practice that means a central, clearly visible spot near circulation routes, break rooms or reception. Large or complex buildings usually need more than one unit. A signalling wall cabinet and an ISO 7010 rescue sign (E010) make the AED easy to find, even for visitors.
- Central and reachable within a 3-minute round trip.
- Clearly marked with the ISO 7010 rescue sign E010.
- Dry and frost-free; use a heated outdoor cabinet for exterior sites.
- Recorded in the emergency plan and on the first-aider notice.
Semi-automatic or fully automatic - which is better?
Both types analyse the heart rhythm automatically and only enable a shock for a shockable rhythm. The sole difference is delivery: a semi-automatic unit prompts the rescuer to press the shock button, while a fully automatic unit delivers the shock itself after a voice warning.
For most workplaces with trained first-aiders the semi-automatic unit is the common choice, because the rescuer keeps final control over the timing. Fully automatic units lower the hesitation barrier where users rarely train. Either way, choose clear voice prompts and a metronome for chest compressions.
How do you keep an AED ready to use?
An AED is a medical device and must stay permanently operational. Pads and battery are consumables with expiry dates, usually 2 to 5 years. The unit runs an automatic self-test and shows its readiness through a status indicator.
- Visual and status checks weekly or monthly, logged in a record book.
- Replace pads and battery before expiry and keep a spare set ready.
- Safety-technical inspection per the manufacturer's schedule.
- After every use, replace pads and secure the event data.
Who may use an AED and how is training done?
An AED is built so that even untrained bystanders can use it safely, because the voice prompts guide each step. Even so, best practice is to train workplace first-aiders regularly so they act without hesitation in an emergency.
Workplace first-aiders complete a basic course and refresh their skills every 2 years. AED handling and cardiopulmonary resuscitation fit neatly into that refresher training.
- Train first-aiders and refresh their skills every 2 years.
- Include AED handling in the first-aid refresher course.
- Run short practice drills on your own AED model.
- Rehearse the emergency call, fetching the AED and team CPR.
Frequently asked questions
Is a workplace AED mandatory?
There is generally no blanket legal requirement to provide an AED. However, a risk assessment and recognised first-aid guidance may identify an AED as a sensible or necessary measure, especially with many staff or remote locations.
Can an AED harm a healthy person?
No. The AED analyses the heart rhythm and only enables a shock for a shockable rhythm such as ventricular fibrillation. With a normal heartbeat the shock stays locked out.
How often does an AED need servicing?
The unit runs daily self-tests. On top of that you need regular visual and status checks, timely replacement of pads and battery, and a safety inspection per the manufacturer's schedule.
Semi-automatic or fully automatic for the workplace?
For trained first-aiders the semi-automatic unit is common because the rescuer triggers the shock. A fully automatic unit lowers the hesitation barrier for rare users and delivers the shock itself after a voice warning.
Looking for the right workplace AED?
We supply AEDs in semi-automatic and fully automatic versions with wall cabinets, spare pads and signage - matched to your risk assessment.
Ready in seconds
Units with self-test and a clear status indicator.
Guidance-led
Selection and training to recognised first-aid guidance.
Fully equipped
Wall cabinet, spare pads and signage included.
Expert advice
We help with siting and choosing the unit type.