Heart attack and sudden cardiac arrest are not the same thing.
While people often use the terms interchangeably, they are different heart-related medical emergencies with different treatments, outcomes and survival rates.
Only 10 percent of people survive an out-of-hospital sudden cardiac arrest, compared with 76 percent of heart attack victims 3 years on.
Heat attack - a circulation issue
A heart attack occurs when blood flow to the heart is blocked.
Cause - Blood flow to the heart is blocked by plaque build-up, spasm or rupture of a coronary artery, leaving it deprived of oxygen.
Signs and symptoms - The patient may be alert but short of breath with chest tightness, feelings of indigestion, or pain spreading to the arm, neck, jaw or shoulder. Nausea, cold sweat and dizziness may also be present.
Duration - Symptoms may progress over minutes, hours or days.
First Aid - Call Triple Zero (000) for an ambulance. Give prescribed heart medication but no food or fluids. Send for a defibrillator (AED) and prepare for CPR.
Sudden cardiac arrest - a heartbeat malfunction
Sudden cardiac arrest occurs when the heart malfunctions and suddenly stops beating.
Cause - The heart suddenly stops pumping (arrests), starving it and other vital organs of oxygenated blood, which leads to unconsciousness and no breathing.
Signs and symptoms - There is usually no warning: the patient may suddenly collapse, lose of consciousness, or experience abnormal or no breathing, and no pulse.
Duration - Once unconscious, the condition is fatal within minutes if untreated.
First Aid - Call Triple Zero (000) for an ambulance. Begin CPR immediately and attach a defibrillator (AED) as soon as possible, following the prompts and continuing CPR.
Why have a defibrillator (AED) in the workplace?
In today’s fast-paced work environments, ensuring the safety and wellbeing of employees is paramount.
While many organisations focus on preventing accidents and injuries, an automated external defibrillator (AED) can mean the difference between life and death in a medical emergency.
CPR can significantly improve the chance of survival in both heart attack and cardiac arrest incidents. But using a defibrillator gives patients the best chance of survival while waiting for medical first responders to arrive on the scene.
Sudden cardiac arrest in the workplace
Sudden cardiac arrest is a leading cause of death worldwide and doesn’t discriminate based on location.
According to the Australian Resuscitation Council, approximately 30,000 Australians suffer from sudden cardiac arrest each year. It can strike anyone, anywhere – including the workplace.
It’s important to be prepared for such emergencies in any work setting, from office buildings to construction sites.
Critical window for survival
When it comes to sudden cardiac arrest, every second counts.
The chance of survival decreases by 7-10 percent for every minute that passes without defibrillation. This stark reality highlights the importance of having immediate access to a defibrillator in the workplace.
Traditional emergency response times, even in urban areas, can often exceed 8-10 minutes. By having a defibrillator on-site, workplaces can dramatically reduce the time between collapse and the first shock, potentially increasing the survival rate from less than 5 percent to more than 70 percent.
Psychological impact of a defibrillator in the workplace
While the primary purpose of a defibrillator is to save lives during cardiac emergencies, its presence in the workplace can have far-reaching psychological benefits for employees.
Research shows that the visible presence of safety equipment, including defibrillators, can contribute to a greater sense of security and wellbeing among workers.
This increased feeling of safety can lead to:
- Reduced stress and anxiety
- Enhanced perception of employer care and concern
- Increased willingness to learn and participate in emergency response training
- Improved job satisfaction
These psychological benefits can contribute to a more positive work environment and potentially even improve productivity and employee retention.
Defibrillators as a catalyst for overall health awareness
Introducing a defibrillator into the workplace can serve as a powerful catalyst for broader health and safety initiatives.
The presence of such a life-saving device often sparks conversations about heart health, leading to increased awareness of cardiovascular risks and preventive measures.
Many organisations find that after implementing a defibrillator program, employees become more interested in:
- Learning CPR and first aid skills
- Understanding heart health and risk factors
- Participating in workplace wellness programs
- Advocating for healthier workplace policies and practices
This ripple effect can contribute to a more health-conscious work culture, potentially reducing the overall incidence of heart-related issues among employees.
Growing expectation of workplace defibrillator access
While national legislation doesn’t currently mandate defibrillators in all workplaces, certain designated buildings, facilities and vehicles in South Australia are required by legislation to install a defibrillator (or two, depending on size) by 1 January 2026.
These sorts of positive steps motivate a growing expectation for all Australian organisations to provide a safe working environment, including being prepared for emergencies like sudden cardiac arrest.
In some sectors, such as fitness centres and aged care facilities, defibrillators are becoming an expected standard of care. Failure to have a defibrillator available in case of an emergency could potentially expose an organisation to legal liability.
Having a defibrillator and a well-implemented emergency response plan can serve as a strong defence in the event of a workplace incident, demonstrating the organisation’s commitment to employee safety.
Long-term value of a defibrillator in the workplace
While the initial cost of purchasing a defibrillator can seem significant, it’s important to consider the long-term value and potential return on investment.
When compared to the cost of workplace injuries, lost productivity and potential legal liabilities, the cost of a defibrillator is relatively modest.
Advances in technology have made defibrillators more affordable, user-friendly and effective than ever before. Most models now offer features such as:
- Voice and visual prompts for easy use by non-medical personnel
- Self-testing capabilities to ensure readiness
- Long battery life and low maintenance requirements
- Paediatric electrodes (pads) for use on children
These features make defibrillators a cost-effective addition to workplace safety measures, with the potential to save both lives and financial resources in the long run.
Making the most of a defibrillator investment
While having a defibrillator on-site is of great benefit, it’s important to follow through with a comprehensive defibrillator program to maximise its potential benefits. Key elements of an effective program include:
Strategic placement - A defibrillator should be easily accessible and clearly sign-posted in high-traffic areas.
Staff training - Regular training sessions on defibrillator use and CPR can help employees feel confident in responding to emergencies.
Maintenance schedule - Regular checks and maintenance ensure a defibrillator is always ready for use.
Emergency response plan - A clear plan outlining roles and responsibilities during a cardiac emergency can save precious time.
Awareness campaigns - Regular reminders about a defibrillator’s location and purpose keep it top of mind for all employees.
By implementing these strategies, organisations can create a robust culture of safety and preparedness.
Conclusion
The decision to install a defibrillator in the workplace is more than just a safety measure – it’s a statement about an organisation’s values and commitment to its employees’ wellbeing.
From the clear life-saving potential to the less obvious benefits of increased health awareness and improved workplace morale, defibrillators offer a multitude of advantages that far outweigh their cost.
As we spend a significant portion of our lives at work, our workplaces must be equipped to handle all types of emergencies, including heart attack and sudden cardiac arrest.
By embracing defibrillators, organisations not only protect their most valuable asset – their people – but also contribute to a broader culture of safety and preparedness in society.
References
Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute
Safe Work Australia - Work-related cardio-vascular disease
WorkSafe Victoria - Use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) in the workplace