Page 55 - OHS, July/August 2024

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ily available to trained personnel.13 Accessibility can be a matter of life and death. So placing AEDs in high-traffic and easily reachable areas is essential.
Equipment maintenance. According to the American Heart Association, routine checks and maintenance of AEDs are neces- sary to ensure functionality, including battery life and the condi- tion of pads.14 Regular maintenance checks should be document- ed, and any issues should be addressed immediately to ensure readiness.
Emergency response plan. Integrating CPR and defibrillation protocols into the workplace emergency response plan is vital. All employees should be informed about the plan and their roles in an emergency. A well-structured plan includes clear procedures for responding to SCA, roles and responsibilities, and contact infor- mation for emergency services.15
Regular drills and refreshers. Conducting periodic emergency drills ensures familiarity with CPR and AED procedures. Regular refreshers help maintain employees’ skills and confidence.16 Drills also help identify potential issues in the emergency response plan, allowing for timely adjustments and improvements.
Training and certification. Regular training and certification in CPR and AED use are essential for employees, particularly those designated as first responders. Comprehensive training programs are often available to meet workplace needs.17 Training should cover the basics of recognizing SCA, performing CPR and using an AED effectively.
The Psychological Impact of SCA Response
Responding to an SCA can be a highly stressful experience for employees. The psychological impact on those involved in the re- sponse can be significant, and it’s important to provide support.18 This can include debriefing sessions after an incident, access to counseling services and creating a culture where employees feel supported and valued for their efforts.
The Role of Technology
in CPR and Defibrillation Training
Advancements in technology have significantly improved CPR and defibrillation training. Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) training programs offer immersive and interactive learning experiences. These technologies can simulate real-life scenarios, providing trainees with hands-on experience in a controlled en- vironment.19 Additionally, mobile apps and online platforms offer resources and tools for continuous learning and skill reinforce- ment.
Legal and Ethical Considerations
Workplace safety and health professionals must also be aware of the legal and ethical considerations associated with CPR and de- fibrillation. Understanding the legal protections for those who perform CPR and use AEDs, often referred to as Good Samaritan laws, is crucial.20 These laws typically protect individuals from li-
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multiple locations within the workplace, clearly marked and read-
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Case Studies and Real-Life Applications
Examining real-life applications and case studies can provide valu- able insights into the effectiveness of CPR and defibrillation in the workplace. Case studies from various industries where these techniques have successfully saved lives can be used as educational tools to emphasize the importance of preparedness and proper training. These examples can help illustrate the critical impact of immediate and effective response.
One notable case involved a manufacturing plant where an employee collapsed due to SCA.22 Thanks to the quick response of trained coworkers who performed CPR and used an AED, the employee was revived before emergency medical services arrived. This incident underscores the importance of having trained per- sonnel and accessible equipment in the workplace.
Another case study from a corporate office demonstrated the psychological impact of SCA response.23 Following the incident, the company provided counseling and support for the employees involved, highlighting the need for comprehensive post-incident care.
Boosting Survival Outcomes
through Effective CPR and Defibrillation
CPR and defibrillation are essential components of emergency response that can significantly improve survival outcomes follow- ing sudden cardiac arrest. For workplace safety and health profes- sionals, understanding the importance of these techniques and integrating them into workplace safety protocols is crucial. Regu- lar training, accessible AEDs and a well-structured emergency response plan are key elements in ensuring a safe and prepared workplace. By prioritizing these life-saving measures, workplaces can enhance their emergency preparedness and contribute to sav- ing lives.
Ian Durrant is the Sr. Manager, Global Public Safety Marketing for ZOLL Medical Corporation and has been in the industry for nearly 20 years.
www.ohsonline.com
JULY/AUGUST 2024 | Occupational Health & Safety 53
REFERENCES
1. tinyurl.com/yknspe9s 2. tinyurl.com/ycjm48m7 3. tinyurl.com/mskm9cw3 4. tinyurl.com/3e7x5r2k 5. tinyurl.com/3bhv4wmb 6. tinyurl.com/4a9deb5r 7. tinyurl.com/4ccrpr4h 8. tinyurl.com/3w5shnsh 9. tinyurl.com/js5863yc 10. tinyurl.com/mr2j83xc 11. tinyurl.com/3d5zst44
12. tinyurl.com/6jc7f6sk 13. tinyurl.com/4r7zf262 14. tinyurl.com/3rrdyydy 15. tinyurl.com/3r2ssu94 16. tinyurl.com/ab4byzzp 17. tinyurl.com/bdz7sx9c 18. tinyurl.com/4yecwbsd 19. tinyurl.com/2nwz6mh6 20. tinyurl.com/ycx4swtb 21. tinyurl.com/4jnwrcea 22. tinyurl.com/5aadyz8v 23. tinyurl.com/n8mmjmda