Running a small business means juggling many responsibilities, often with limited resources. While you may have insurance, safety protocols, and even a fire extinguisher, one life-saving tool often gets overlooked: the automated external defibrillator.
Automated external defibrillators deliver a shock to someone suffering from sudden cardiac arrest. These devices are simple enough to be used by anyone, including those with no medical training.
Why a Small Business Needs an AED
A friendly and safe work environment is at the heart of many small-owned businesses. Having a community-supported company can mean your shoppers are friends, maybe even family, that you care about. You never know when an emergency may arise, and having an AED on hand can help ensure the safety of your customers and your valued employees.
Legal Compliance
If you are a small business owner, you might be legally obliged to have an AED in your business. Many states require AEDs in certain public places and even need designated individuals to be trained. Public places that have a high traffic flow are typically required, such as:
- Airports
- Sports stadiums
- Grocery stores
- Fitness clubs
- Shopping centers
While your small business may not be located in an international airport, it’s still important to note how much traffic comes in and out. Some states require by law that high-traffic areas or certain building occupancies give AED access to customers.
The law also often requires or highly recommends a designated employee or team member to be trained in AED use, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and CPR performance. Training individuals in your business can help speed up the rescue process to provide help to a victim in need as quickly as possible.
Choosing the Right AED for Your Small Business
Selecting the right AED for your small business can be daunting if you are unfamiliar with all of the AED features you must consider, like the weight and portability of the device, the durability, or even CPR coaching capabilities. Also, factors like how much you can spend, the type of business you have, and the maintenance and upkeep of the AED are all important to acknowledge before choosing the perfect fit for you!
AED Budget
You may be wondering, can my small business even afford an AED? Your budget plays a significant role in determining which AED is the best fit for your business. AEDs come in a wide range of prices, and while you may be tempted to opt for the most affordable option, be sure to balance between the cost and functionality.
Does a more expensive AED have the features that would make sense for your business, such as WIFI capabilities or higher quality visuals? If so, can you afford an AED of that price point and the maintenance that comes with it?
Employee Training and Support
Once you have a budget, consider whether you have the resources and willingness to support employees in becoming trained in AED and CPR use. If some employees are already trained, it can improve response times and outcomes during an emergency. Expanding the number of trained responders can enhance your business’s readiness even more. Multiple CPR/AED Training courses are available, so choosing which type of course works best for your employees is simple.
AED Maintenance
With everything that goes into owning an AED, you can’t forget that these devices need to be maintained. When considering an AED for your business, you must understand if you can support these maintenance requirements financially and logistically.
AED upkeep includes:
- AED battery checks – An AED battery typically lasts 2-5 years.
- AED electrode pads check – AED pads can expire just like batteries and must be replaced after each use. We recommend keeping backups of both pads and batteries.
- Cleaning your device – Dirt, dust, and debris can build up and affect the functioning of your device.
- Inspection tag– Each device has an inspection tag to help you stay on track with maintenance. These tags need to be filled out for maintenance documentation in case they need to be referenced.
For a more detailed checklist on AED maintenance, read Spring Cleaning Guide: How to Check Your AED Devices.
Type of Business
The nature of your business can influence your AED selection. Is your small business growing and in need of AEDs at multiple locations? Or does your business often have events outdoors that may need a carrying case for on-the-go access? How about if your company has an upstairs – would you need an AED with a handle for easy transportation?
Once you understand the features that would benefit your business, you can research the AEDs that align with your needs. Heartsmart.com’s AED buyer’s guide is a comprehensive list of AEDs we offer. This guide breaks down AED features and benefits by industry so you can quickly sort through what each machine offers and find the best for your small business.
Heartsmart.com makes it a step simpler with our AED Business Value Packages. These value packages typically include:
- AED device of your choice
- AED electrode pads set (2-pads per pack)
- AED battery
- Premium carrying case
- AED wall cabinet
- Medical prescription
- CPR/AED rescue kit
- Inspection/maintenance tag
- “AED Equipped Facility” decal
These packages save your business money and help you get everything you need in one purchase to get your business’s AED program started. Scroll to choose from our wide selection of manufacturers.
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Having an AED in your business shows that your taking a step to help ensure the safety of your employees, customers, and visitors, and may ultimately reduce the risk of legal liability in the event of an emergency.
If you still have questions, please fill out our Contact Us form or call 800-422-8129. Choose Heartsmart to be your ally in creating a heart-safe environment for your community.