What Every Organization Should Know

In an emergency, every second counts. When someone experiences sudden cardiac arrest, the difference between life and death often comes down to immediate access to an Automated External Defibrillator (AED). Yet many Canadian workplaces, community centers, public spaces, and homes still do not have this critical lifesaving device on-site.

Understanding the Critical Role of AEDs

An AED is a portable, user-friendly device designed to deliver an electric shock to restore normal heart rhythm during cardiac arrest. Unlike manual defibrillators used by medical professionals, AEDs are specifically created for use by bystanders with minimal or no medical training.

While CPR is an essential first response technique, the reality is that AED vs. CPR isn't an either/or proposition—they work together. CPR helps maintain blood flow to vital organs, but an AED is often necessary to restart the heart. Studies show that using an AED before emergency services arrive can increase survival rates by up to 75%.

Side view of a HeartSine Samaritan AED Pad case that includes a window to still see the device

https://aed.ca/products/stryker-heartsine

The Real Consequences of AED Absence

Without an AED near me mentality, organizations face sobering realities:

Survival rates for cardiac arrest victims drop 7-10% for every minute without defibrillation
After 10 minutes without an AED, survival chances are less than 5%
Some provincial regulations now recommend or require AEDs in certain facilities

AED Requirements in Canada

Across AED Canada jurisdictions, regulations are evolving. While requirements vary by province, many public spaces now face mandates or strong recommendations to install AEDs, including:

Schools and educational facilities
Recreation centers and gyms
Government buildings
Workplaces and industrial sites
Retail buildings
Public transit hubs

Organizations should research specific provincial guidelines to ensure compliance with local AED requirements.

Cost vs. Value: Understanding AED Investment

Many decision-makers hesitate due to perceived high AED cost. The reality is that modern AEDs have become increasingly affordable. The typical AED price in Canada ranges from $1,595 to $2,500 for standard models, with portable AED options sometimes available at lower price points.

When evaluating cost, consider:

Potential lives saved
Liability protection
Employee and customer peace of mind
Extended warranty options
Training packages often included with purchase

AED suppliers such as AED.ca offer different options to make this lifesaving equipment accessible even for organizations with tight budgets.

Zoll 3 AED

https://aed.ca/products/zoll-aed-3

Preparation Beyond Purchase

Training and Certification

AED training ensures that staff know how to use an AED correctly during an emergency. Many providers offer combination courses covering both CPR and AED usage, reinforcing that both skills complement each other.

Certification typically:

Takes only 3-4 hours to complete
Remains valid for 2-3 years
Can be conducted on-site at your facility
Builds confidence for emergency response

Maintenance and Accessibility

A properly maintained AED should be:

Visible and accessible, not locked away
Checked regularly for battery life and pad expiration
Registered with local emergency services
Part of your organization's emergency response plan

LifePak CR2 Defibrillator in a AED Wall Bracket

https://aed.ca/products/stryker-physio-cr2-semi-auto-english-wifi

Taking Action Today

The decision to install an AED isn't just about regulatory compliance or risk management—it's about creating a safer environment for everyone who enters your facility.

If your organization hasn't yet invested in an AED, consider these next steps: