Where Should You Place an AED in the Workplace?

Choosing the Right Location for an Automated External Defibrillator

When installing an Automated External Defibrillator (AED), visibility and accessibility are critical. The AED should be placed in a highly visible and central location so it can be quickly located in an emergency.

Indoor AED Placement

Popular indoor locations include behind reception desks or mounted on a visible wall using the built-in hook. Ensure there is clear and consistent signage throughout the premises — especially near kitchens, staircases, communal areas, and exits — to direct people to the nearest AED.

Using an Internal AED Cabinet

An indoor AED can also be stored inside a wall-mounted cabinet. These cabinets often have a transparent front and are easily recognisable. Many include the AED preparation kit, and their design makes it obvious if the unit is missing. Cabinets help protect the unit and make sure it is always ready for use.

External AED Cabinets

When placing an AED outdoors, it must be stored in a weatherproof, heated cabinet such as the DS3 model. These cabinets are designed to maintain a safe temperature range to prevent the battery or electrode pads from malfunctioning due to cold or extreme heat.

External AED cabinets can be locked or unlocked. If locked, a keypad system is used for secure access. To enhance emergency response, consider registering your AED on the national circuit database so that 999 call handlers can guide the public to your device and provide the cabinet access code if needed.

Key Placement Considerations

• Visibility: Place the AED in a prominent, signposted location.
• Accessibility: Ensure it is not locked away or hidden — speed is essential in a cardiac emergency.
• Indoor vs Outdoor Use: Use a heated cabinet for external environments to protect the AED's functionality.
• Public Access: Consider placing the unit where it can be accessed by the public during emergencies.
• Power Supply: Ensure outdoor cabinets are connected to power to maintain temperature control.

Conclusion

Proper AED placement can dramatically improve survival rates in cardiac emergencies. Whether stored indoors or outdoors, your AED should be accessible, secure, and clearly marked. Communicate its location to all staff and consider registering it on national databases to maximise its life-saving potential.