Loss Prevention Hot Topics

AED Reliability

There has been some concern raised regarding the reliability of Automated External Defibrillators (AED). Reports to the FDA showed 1,150 failed attempts during a time period from January 1993-October 2008. This number increased simply because the use of AEDs has increased. Meanwhile, the actual rate of AED failure has improved and AEDs are now more reliable than ever. According to Cam Pollock, vice president of global marketing for Physio-Control, 99.9 percent of the time AEDs work as intended.

As we now know, Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) does not discriminate against race or age, resulting in about 300,000 deaths every year in the U.S. alone. Many of these deaths happen because an AED was not readily available. In most cases, a nearby AED used appropriately is the only chance that some victims have at surviving an attack.

Taking these simple measures will help reduce the risk that your AED will not operate properly in the event of a medical emergency:

• Complete regular weekly checks to ensure your AED is in proper working condition.
• Confirm AED consumables such as disposable adult/child chest pads have not gone past their expiration dates.
• Review the maintenance information and the owner’s manual or refer to the manufacturer’s web site, which provides the most up-to-date information.
• Provide the proper training on using the AED in conjunction with CPR classes.

If you have any questions about this Loss Prevention Hot Topic, contact your Loss Prevention consultant.