In the fast-paced school environment, the safety of students and staff is paramount. A key aspect of school safety is the presence of defibrillators, or Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs), on school premises.
On November 15 2023, Department of Education Director General Lisa Rodgers released an official CEO instruction mandating Automated External Defibrillators in all WA public schools by 30 June 2024, effective from 15 November 2023.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll shed light on the critical importance of defibrillators in WA schools, the evolving updated legal mandates and requirements, and practical considerations for AED use, installation and maintenance.
Should schools have defibrillators? Updated requirements for 2023 and 2024
By June 30, 2024, it is compulsory for all WA public school grounds to have a minimum of one AED situated at the main Administration building. These AEDs must be purchased from reputable suppliers, adhering to Australian Standards and registered on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods. Their placement will be meticulously planned to maximise functionality, considering environmental factors that might influence performance. Additionally, efforts will be made to make AEDs accessible for community use whenever feasible.
Defibrillators in schools law: legal requirements and regulations
Recent updates to West Australian laws reinforce the importance of all WA public schools to have defibrillators.
- Mandatory Installation: The updated 2023/2024 laws mandate that all WA schools must have at least one AED on their premises by 30 June 2024. This requirement is not negotiable, as AEDs have proven to be life-saving devices in sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) situations.
- Accessible Placement: AEDs should be strategically placed to ensure easy access during emergencies. The law specifies that at least one AED should be installed on the outside wall of the main administration building. This placement ensures visibility and accessibility to all members of the school community.
- Clear Signage: AEDs should be clearly identified with signage. Proper signage ensures that anyone on the school premises can quickly locate the AED in a medical emergency. If your AED doesn’t come with signs, you’ll need to purchase them separately.
- Positioning Height: The law mandates that AEDs be positioned between 1.2 and 1.4 meters from the floor. This height range ensures that people of all heights and abilities can easily reach the device when needed.
- Protection from Environmental Factors: To maintain the functionality of AEDs, it’s crucial to protect them from dust, water, and condensation. Consider installing AEDs in weatherproof cabinets if they are located outdoors.
Selecting the right defibrillator model
Choosing the right defibrillator model is a critical decision. Here are some factors to consider in line with the mandate:
- Compliance with AS/NZS 3200.2.4:2006 Standards: Ensure the defibrillator meets Australian and New Zealand Standard AS/NZS 3200.2.4:2006 Particular requirements for safety – Cardiac defibrillators. Compliance with these standards is essential for the safety and efficacy of the device.
- Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods: Check if the AED is listed on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG). This registration ensures that the device has been rigorously tested and approved for use in Australia.
- Cabinet Requirement: If you plan to store the AED outdoors, you’ll need to purchase a cabinet to protect it from the elements. While cabinets are optional for indoor AEDs, they are highly recommended for outdoor installations.
- Signage: Some AEDs come with signage included, while others do not. Ensure that appropriate signage is in place to indicate the AED’s location.
- Spare Pads and Batteries: Many AEDs are supplied with spare pads and a battery. It’s vital to change the pads each time they are used, so having extras on hand is crucial for maintenance.
- Read the Instructions: Before finalising your AED purchase, carefully read the manufacturer or supplier instructions. These instructions will provide essential information on how to use and maintain the AED properly.
How to operate a AED in a medical emergency
Operating an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) in a medical emergency is a crucial skill that can save lives. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use an AED in an Australian school setting:
- Assess the Situation
- Ensure your safety and the safety of others in the area.
- Check if the person is unresponsive and not breathing normally.
- Call 000 or ask someone nearby to call for an ambulance immediately.
- Retrieve the AED
- Many schools have AEDs placed in visible and accessible locations. Locate the nearest AED and bring it to the victim.
- Power On the AED
- Turn on the AED by pressing the power button if it’s not already activated.
- Attach Electrode Pads
- Open the AED lid and retrieve the electrode pads.
- Remove the victim’s clothing from the chest area to expose the skin.
- Peel off the backing of the electrode pads and apply them to the bare chest as indicated on the pads. Typically, one pad goes on the upper right side of the chest, just below the collarbone, and the other pad on the left side, slightly below the armpit. Follow any diagrams or instructions on the pads.
- Analyse Heart Rhythm
- Ensure that no one is touching the victim while the AED analyses the heart rhythm.
- Let the AED analyse the victim’s heart rhythm. It will provide clear voice prompts and visual instructions.
- Follow AED Voice Prompts
- If the AED advises a shock, make sure no one is in contact with the victim and press the shock button as instructed.
- If the AED advises no shock, perform CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) immediately. Follow the AED’s voice prompts for the correct rhythm and depth of chest compressions (typically at least 2 inches deep at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute). Continue CPR until the AED reanalyses or emergency medical personnel arrive.
- Continue CPR and Follow AED Instructions
- Follow the AEDs voice prompts for the next steps, which may include additional shocks or continued CPR cycles.
- Wait for Emergency Services
- Continue to provide care and follow the AEDs instructions until emergency medical services arrive.
Remember that AEDs are designed to be user-friendly and provide clear voice prompts to guide you through the process. While waiting for EMS, ensure that someone has called 000, and if there is more than one person present, take turns performing CPR to minimise fatigue.
It’s essential to receive proper training in CPR and AED use from certified providers, such as the Australian Resuscitation Council, to ensure you can respond effectively in a medical emergency. Many schools offer first aid and CPR training to staff and students, so consider participating in these programs to gain the necessary skills and confidence.
Failure to comply to mandate
Failure to comply with this AED mandate by a school Principal may lead to disciplinary action, potentially culminating in termination of employment.
Protecting lives and ensuring compliance
In a time when safety is paramount, WA schools have a legal and moral obligation to ensure the well-being of their students and staff. Defibrillators play a vital role in saving lives during sudden cardiac arrest incidents, which can occur without warning.
The recent mandate has made it clear that defibrillators are not optional in schools; they are compulsory. By following the legal requirements and considering the factors mentioned in this article, schools can take proactive steps toward safeguarding their communities.
Ensuring the proper placement, maintenance, and use of defibrillators is not just a matter of compliance; it’s a matter of life and death. WA schools must embrace this responsibility to protect the lives of those within their care.
As school staff and decision-makers, your commitment to safety is a powerful tool in creating a secure and thriving learning environment. By prioritising defibrillators and adhering to updated laws, you are making a profound difference—one that could save lives when every second counts.
LFA First Response – Your partner in school AED compliance
With a range of compliant AED options, from Heartsine, CellAED, Lifepak and Zoll, as well as signage, cabinets and batteries, LFA ensures that your school is well-prepared to meet the legal requirements and, more importantly, to save lives in an emergency situation. Contact us today for more information or to source defibrillators for your school.
