Find the Best AED for Small Business

Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is unpredictable and can happen to anyone, even at work. If you’re wondering how to get an AED for your business, you’re taking a crucial step to protect the lives of your employees, customers, or visitors. As a small business owner, having an AED readily available can be a lifesaver. Given the multitude of AED options in the market, making a choice can be overwhelming. Fear not! In this blog post, we will walk you through the top 5 AEDs ideal for small businesses and what to consider when selecting the best fit for your business needs. At AEDUSA we will be with you every step of the way when making your lifesaving AED decision.

Top 5 AEDs for Small Businesses

Choosing the right AED machine for business purposes is a critical decision because it can be the difference between life and death during cardiac arrest incidents. Based on their features, ease of use, and affordability, the top 5 AEDs recommended for small businesses are:

1. Philips HeartStart OnSite AED

2. ZOLL AED Plus

3. Defibtech Lifeline VIEW AED

4. Cardiac Science Powerheart G5 AED

5. HeartSine Samaritan PAD 350P

We will now examine some of our most popular AEDs in detail to understand why they are the top choices for your business based on our extensive database of AED reviews.

Philips Onsite AED Features

• User-centric Design: The Philips Onsite HS1 AED is intuitively crafted, ensuring users, even if they’re first-timers, can efficiently operate it during emergencies.

• Voice Guidance: The device offers clear voice prompts that guide individuals step by step through the defibrillation procedure, significantly reducing the chances of user error.

• Consistent Self-testing: To guarantee reliability, the Onsite HS1 conducts regular automatic checks, ensuring it’s always ready for emergencies.

• SMART Biphasic Technology: This unique technology by Philips customizes the defibrillation shock based on the individual’s needs, enhancing the chances of a successful resuscitation.

• Quick Shock Capability: Recognizing the importance of time in cardiac emergencies, the Quick Shock feature swiftly transitions from CPR to shock delivery, improving the possibility of rhythm conversion.

• Compact Design: The Philips Onsite HS1 is not just portable but also lightweight, making it suitable for various environments, from offices to public spaces.

• Integrated SMART Pads: These pads can detect their own application to the patient, allowing the AED to adapt its voice instructions based on the user’s progress.

Given these features, the Philips Onsite HS1 AED stands out as an ideal choice for those seeking a dependable and user-friendly automated external defibrillator.

Zoll Plus AED Features

• Real CPR Help: The Zoll Plus AED is equipped with real-time feedback capabilities on the quality of CPR being delivered, ensuring that rescuers can provide optimal chest compressions to the patient.

• Clear Voice Prompts: The device offers step-by-step voice guidance, making it user-friendly and ensuring even those with minimal training can operate it confidently during emergencies.

• Visual Icons: Alongside its voice instructions, the Zoll Plus AED features graphic icons that provide visual cues, further simplifying the rescue process for users.

• One-Piece Electrode Pad: The unique CPR-D padz design facilitates correct pad placement on the patient, reducing potential confusion and saving critical time.

• Regular Self-checks: The device conducts continuous self-tests to ensure its internal circuitry, battery, and pads are always in optimal condition, and ready for use.

• Extended Battery Life: Designed with longevity in mind, the Zoll Plus AED ensures that the device remains ready for emergencies with its durable battery.

• Rugged and Portable: Built to endure various conditions, the Zoll Plus AED is robust yet easily transportable, making it versatile for different environments.

Given its combination of user-friendly features and reliability, the Zoll Plus AED is a top pick for those in search of an effective and dependable automated external defibrillator.

Cardiac Science G5 AED Features

• Dual Language Capability: Unique to the Cardiac Science G5, this feature allows users to toggle between two preset languages, accommodating diverse user groups and environments.

• Clear User Interface: The G5 offers both comprehensive voice prompts and visual indicators, making the rescue process straightforward and user-friendly, even for those with limited training.

• Real-time CPR Feedback: This AED provides instant feedback on the quality of CPR being delivered, helping rescuers to achieve the correct compression depth and rate, enhancing the chances of successful resuscitation.

• Consistent Self-checks: The G5 performs regular self-assessments, including checks of its internal components, battery, and pads, ensuring that it’s always ready for emergencies and signaling any maintenance needs.

• Rapid Shock Times: Designed to minimize interruptions during the critical CPR phase, the G5 boasts one of the industry’s quickest shock delivery times after stopping CPR.

• Non-Polarized Pads: The G5’s defibrillation pads are interchangeable, meaning there’s no specified “up” or “down” orientation, simplifying the application process and saving precious seconds in an emergency.

• Durable Build: Meeting strict durability standards, the Cardiac Science G5 AED is constructed to handle tough environments, ensuring dependable performance when it matters most.

Given these standout features, the Cardiac Science G5 AED emerges as a prime choice for those seeking a reliable and user-centric automated external defibrillator.

Heartsine 350P AED Features

• Compact Design: The Heartsine 350P is renowned for its lightweight and compact build, making it one of the most portable AEDs available, perfect for various settings and transportation needs.

• Simplified Operation: With a straightforward two-button interface and clear voice prompts, the 350P is designed for ease of use, allowing even those with minimal training to operate the device effectively during emergencies.

• Durability: Designed for resilience, the Heartsine 350P is rugged with a high IP56 rating, showcasing its robustness against dust and water, ensuring its reliability across diverse scenarios.

• Integrated PAD-PAK™ System: A unique feature of Heartsine AEDs, the 350P combines the battery and electrode pads into a single cartridge. This system streamlines maintenance by consolidating components and ensuring users only have one expiration date to monitor.

• Visual Status Indicator: Continuous self-monitoring ensures the AED is always in operational readiness. A visible status indicator allows users to instantly verify their readiness status without powering on the device.

• SCOPE Biphasic Technology: The 350P employs proprietary SCOPE (Self-Compensating Output Pulse Envelope) technology, adjusting the defibrillation waveform based on the patient’s impedance, thus optimizing the chance for successful defibrillation.

• Data Recording: In the aftermath of its use, the 350P captures essential data. This information can be later transferred and reviewed by medical professionals, providing invaluable insights for post-event analysis and care.

Given its combination of user-friendly features and durable design, the Heartsine 350P AED stands out as a top choice for those seeking an efficient and reliable automated external defibrillator.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an AED for Your Small Business

Factors to consider when selecting an AED for your small business include:

• Usability

• Cost and maintenance

• Availability

• Visibility

By taking these factors into account, you can ensure that you select the best AED for your business and are prepared in the event of a sudden cardiac arrest.

Ease of Use

Ease of use is a key factor when choosing an AED for a small business, as employees should be able to operate the device efficiently in an emergency. An AED is user-friendly when it incorporates features such as:

• Remote monitoring

• Wi-Fi or cellular connectivity

• Voice prompts

• Lights

• Text messages to guide the user through the steps

• Compact and portable design

Selecting a user-friendly AED ensures your employees are well-equipped to respond swiftly during a cardiac emergency.

Cost and Maintenance

For small businesses, cost is a significant factor when choosing an AED. It is important to balance affordability with quality and reliability, as investing in a lower-cost AED may not always provide the best value in the long run. The typical cost of an AED for small businesses is approximately $1,715.00, with the Zoll AED Plus and the HeartSine Samaritan PAD 350P being the most cost-efficient options.

In addition to the initial cost, it is also important to consider the maintenance requirements of the AED. Regular servicing is recommended, with most AEDs requiring servicing at least once a month. Regular maintenance of your AED ensures its readiness for use during emergencies.

Accessibility and Visibility

To ensure quick identification and utilization of the AED during an emergency, it should be placed in a location that is both visible and easily accessible. Concealing the AED or placing it behind locked doors can delay retrieval and reduce its effectiveness. It is suggested to place AEDs in:

• targeted public areas

• sports arenas

• gated communities

• other easily accessible locations.

In addition to proper placement, it is also important to consider signage for the AED. Proper signage can help employees and visitors quickly locate the device in an emergency, minimizing any potential delays or confusion. Maximize the life-saving potential of your AED by making sure it is easily accessible and highly visible within the workplace.

AED Training and Compliance for Small Businesses

For small businesses, it’s critical that employees are trained and well-informed about AED usage and compliance. By providing proper training and staying up-to-date on local regulations and Good Samaritan laws, you can ensure that your personnel are equipped to utilize an AED in an urgent situation and protect your business from potential legal issues.

Employee Training

Employee training is vital for ensuring that staff members are prepared to use an AED in an emergency situation. AED training for employees should involve:

• Employee training

• Regular refresher training

• AED certification

• Promotion of the program

• Maintenance and management of AEDs

It is recommended that AED training for employees in small businesses be conducted at least every two years.

Generally, it takes approximately 3 to 4 hours of instruction to equip an employee with the necessary skills to use an AED. Proper employee training can enhance survival chances for individuals who experience sudden cardiac arrest in the workplace.

Local Regulations and Good Samaritan Laws

Small businesses should be aware of local regulations and Good Samaritan laws related to AED use and compliance. The Cardiac Arrest Survival Act is a model designed to be adopted by states to promote the use of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) and other life-saving devices, as well as provide immunity for those who provide emergency care.

The Good Samaritan law offers legal liability protection for individuals administering CPR or using an AED, thereby encouraging members of the public to perform these life-saving actions without fear of legal repercussions. Staying abreast of local regulations and Good Samaritan laws can help small businesses safeguard against potential legal problems, while also ensuring everyone’s safety on-site.

AED Accessories and Additional Equipment for Small Businesses

Beyond choosing the right AED device for your small business, you should also consider accessories and additional equipment that can boost the device’s functionality and effectiveness in an AED-equipped facility.

AED storage, signage, and pediatric pads are all essential elements to consider when setting up your AED system.

AED Storage and Signage

Adequate AED storage and clear signage are vital to ensure the device is both easily accessible and visible in the workplace. There are various storage solutions available for AEDs, such as standard AED cabinets with alarm and strobe, compact AED wall cabinets, and AED defibrillator wall mount storage cabinets. By selecting the right storage solution for your AED, you can ensure that it is readily accessible in the event of an emergency.

Signs indicating the AED location should be placed where they are easily visible and accessible. To ensure that employees and guests can easily see and read the sign, consider using AED wall signs that are printed on both sides or V-shaped signs. Flexible wall signs that can be mounted flat or adjusted to mount in three dimensions are also available.

Pediatric Pads and CPR Kits

Small businesses should consider essential accessories such as pediatric pads and CPR kits, which can be life-saving during emergencies involving children or adults who require CPR. Pediatric pads for AEDs adjust the energy level to deliver a lower energy level appropriate for younger children. Small businesses might need pediatric pads for AEDs in order to be prepared to respond to cardiac emergencies involving children under the age of eight or infants.

CPR kits, which typically include a CPR mask, gloves, and a face shield, can be invaluable in emergency situations. By equipping your workplace with the necessary AED accessories and additional equipment, you can ensure that your employees are prepared to respond effectively in the event of a cardiac emergency, such as performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

Summary

In summary, selecting the right AED for your small business is a crucial decision that can save lives in the event of sudden cardiac arrest. By considering factors such as ease of use, cost, accessibility, and training, you can choose the best AED for your needs and ensure that your employees are prepared to respond in an emergency. In addition to the top 5 AEDs recommended for small businesses, it is important to invest in proper accessories, storage, and signage to maximize the effectiveness of your chosen AED.

Remember, when it comes to sudden cardiac arrest, every second counts. By investing in an AED, providing proper training, and ensuring accessibility and visibility, you can create a safer workplace environment and potentially save lives.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best AED for a small business?

For small businesses, the Philips HeartStart OnSite is an ideal choice. It is compact, easily transported, and user-friendly, making it a great AED for indoor use.

How much is an AED for a business?

AEDs range in price from $900 to $3,000 depending on the features required, making them an affordable option for any business looking to implement an AED program.

How do I choose an AED for my office?

When selecting an AED for your office, look at its size, weight, battery life, and features. Additionally, evaluate the cost and maintenance requirements to determine which AED best fits your needs.

Do you need an AED for a business?

Organizations and business owners should prepare AED equipment in the building to save lives once a sudden cardiac arrest occurs, as the AHA encourages AED programs for increased chances of survival and the benefits of an AED greatly outweigh its cost. OSHA does not require businesses to have AEDs on site.

What are the top 5 AEDs recommended for small businesses?

The top five AEDs recommended for small businesses are Philips HeartStart OnSite AED, ZOLL AED Plus, Defibtech Lifeline VIEW AED, Cardiac Science Powerheart G5 AED, and HeartSine Samaritan PAD 350P.