Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in Schools

1. Mandatory Installation

To ensure the safety and well-being of students and staff, all Western Australian public schools are mandated to install at least one Automated External Defibrillator (AED) on their premises by June 30, 2024. This aligns with the Department of Education’s commitment to proactive emergency preparedness.

2. AED Selection and Placement

AEDs will be sourced from reputable suppliers, ensuring compliance with Australian Standards and registration on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG). Placement will prioritise accessibility, with a strong preference for installation on the external wall of the administration building. This location maximises visibility and facilitates rapid response during emergencies.

3. Community Access and Maintenance

Schools will endeavour to make AEDs readily available for community use when feasible. All AEDs will be registered with the St John WA Community First Responder programme for enhanced emergency response coordination. Regular maintenance plans will be implemented to guarantee the optimal functionality of the AEDs.

4. Exemptions and Additional Resources

Exemptions for alternative placements of AEDs may be considered under specific circumstances. Further details and guidelines regarding exemptions can be found on the Department of Education’s Ikon portal (“Comply with requirements for defibrillators (staff only)”).

Does your school comply with the new WA mandate for AEDs?

The Western Australian Department of Education has made a vital decision: all public schools must now have Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) on-site by June 30, 2024. This initiative prioritises student and staff safety, and your school can be part of the solution.

Why AEDs Matter in Schools

Cardiac emergencies can strike anyone, anywhere. AEDs are portable devices that analyse heart rhythm and deliver an electric shock if needed. Studies show AEDs can double the chance of survival following sudden cardiac arrest. By having an AED readily available, your school can be prepared to act quickly in an emergency.

Benefits of Equipping Your School with an AED

• Peace of Mind: Knowing you have an AED on-site provides reassurance for parents, students, and staff.
• Comply with Regulations: Avoid potential penalties by meeting the 30th June 2024 deadline.
• Save Lives: An AED can be the difference between life and death in a cardiac emergency.

Next Steps: Get Your School Equipped

We offer a range of AEDs suitable for school environments. Our team can also assist with:

• AED Placement: Ensuring your AED is easily accessible and strategically located for emergencies.
• AED Signage: Providing clear visual cues to help people find the AED quickly.
• AED Maintenance: Offering ongoing maintenance plans to ensure your AED is always ready to use.

ZOLL AED Plus Defibrillator

About Response For Life

Sudden cardiac arrest can strike anyone, anywhere. Tragically, for most victims who experience it outside a hospital setting, survival odds are low. At Response For Life, our mission is to change that.

We offer a comprehensive solution for schools, providing Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs), along with essential training and ongoing support. By equipping your staff and students with the knowledge and resources to act in an emergency, you can significantly increase the chances of survival for someone experiencing cardiac arrest.

Imagine the difference you can make. With Response For Life, your school community can become part of the 10% who survive a cardiac event, ensuring students and staff can return home safely each day.