Page 90 - OHS, October 2021

DEFIBRILLATOR & CPR
requirements, notifying local EMS and placing and maintaining an AED.3
Designating a program coordinator. The first step in creating an effective program is choosing a point person who will manage the day-to-day activities and concerns of the program. This person will be responsible for communicating with key decision markers, facility employees and emergency responders about the program. Assigning a program coordinator can help to identify any potential barriers to the implementation of the process and can create overall advocacy for the program—which is highly needed to get the job done right.
State and Local Requirements. Before implementing an AED in your workplace, you will need to check the requirements at both the state and local level. Though each state has its own requirements, most specify what type of training is required, how to work with your state and local EMS services and how to maintain and renew your AED program.
Most state laws require:
■ A state licensed physician to act as a medical supervisor of the program
■ Notifying local EMS of AED programs or registering your AED program with EMS
■ Responders to complete a nationally recognized training CPR/AED course for lay responders
Notifying EMS. Most states require facilities to have an open conversation with local EMS when it comes to the implementation, management and development of procedures for an AED program. Think of EMS as your personal AED partner. Key issues to discuss with local EMS include:
■ The location of on-site AEDs.
■ Written policies and procedures for the transfer of workers who need defibrillation to local EMS.
■ Some states require employers to share data from their AEDs to their local EMS regardless of the type of AED used. Ask about EMS existing protocols to ensure this is done correctly.
Placing and Maintaining AEDs. While it is impossible to guess where a sudden cardiac arrest may happen, you can place AEDs in a spot that is most accessible to workers and responders. The most strategic way to place an AED is to identify the locations where incidents may be high, such as in a corporate health club, high traffic area, cafeteria or other meeting spaces. Additional locations could be at a security guard station, next to a first aid cabinet or at a main reception area.
As stated previously, preventative maintenance of AEDs is key to an effective AED program. The American Heart Association recommends the following checklist for maintenance of AEDs.
■ Verify placement of AEDs and ensure the device is highly visible.
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INTRODUCING ANTIMICROBIAL
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KLEENTM SAFETY CUTTERS
CUTTING EDGE
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SINCE 1950
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