AED Procurement and Placement Strategy: From “We’ve Got One” to “We’re Ready'' First Aid Training
Installing a defibrillator (AED) is a commendable step, but placement, maintenance and practice are what make it lifesaving. HR and operations leaders should approach AED adoption as a strategy, not a purchase.
Start by modelling response time. Your aim is to achieve a collapse-to-shock interval of around three minutes. Map walking routes, lift waits and likely incident areas, and test the path to and from the AED with a stopwatch. In large, multi-storey or complex sites, one device rarely covers the entire footprint. Place additional units to ensure consistent reach, and add clear signage with directional arrows and distances.
Next, assign ownership. Each AED should have a named custodian responsible for weekly visual checks, monthly pad/battery checks, logging, and post-use reset. Store spare pads and a rescue kit (razor, towel, scissors, CPR face shield) with the device. Include AED locations and checks in your health and safety tours and induction.
Integrate training. While AEDs are designed for layperson use, familiarity reduces hesitation. Embed AED practice into Emergency First Aid at Work and First Aid at Work sessions so your responders know how to switch on, place pads, follow prompts, and continue CPR. Our employer-ready courses include AED modules as standard: AED-ready EFAW/FAW for employers. To plan site-specific training and drills, start here: on-site training aligned to AED placement. For multi-site standardisation, coordinate via our nationwide service: employer-wide delivery and renewals. If you need help building the inspection and incident download process, we can advise through: speak to our team about AED governance. For a complete overview of manager responsibilities around first aid and AEDs, read: First Aid Training for Employers – EFAW/FAW Nationwide.
Don’t forget community impact. Where feasible, register your AED with local schemes to support public access out of hours. Ensure your security or reception teams know how to release the device and reset building access after an incident. Run drills that include wayfinding and crowd management — in real events, onlookers and furniture often slow responders more than the AED itself.
An AED strategy backed by placement modelling, ownership, training and drills transforms a plastic box on a wall into a genuine lifesaving capability. Make the investment count by treating it as part of your first aid system — and keep leadership informed with a simple KPI: percentage of floor area within a three-minute round-trip to an AED.
Next Steps for Employers and HR Managers
✅ Book a consultation to assess training needs.
✅ Get a free risk assessment to ensure compliance.
✅ Claim free staff training to improve workplace safety.
