Continual developments in defibrillators allows both trained and untrained responders to use these devices, with confidence.

Location is a factor that requires serious consideration when choosing your defibrillator. We explore what high-risk environments need to consider prior to purchasing.

Design Importance

Manufacturers understand the importance of keeping defibrillators in the best condition possible to ensure it has sufficient protection against hazards and environmental elements.

Effective CPR and defibrillation is the only treatment combination for victims of cardiac arrest. Providing this treatment increases the survival chance from 6% to 74%. For every minute that treatment is delayed, the survival chance decreases 10%.

Some defibrillator models are self-contained and are covered with a lid. This small, but important feature protects the electrode pads which are crucial for defibrillation treatment. The main feature investors need to be concerned with for high-risk environments is IP ratings.

IP Rating

‘IP’ stands for Ingress Protection and are defined in international standard EN 60529, British BS EN 60529:1992 and European IEC 60509:1989. They define the levels of sealing effectiveness on electrical closures against intrusion from foreign bodies and moisture.

Ensuring your choice of defibrillator has a high enough IP rating to withstand the hazards of the environment is essential. Examples of defibrillator IP ratings are:

• IPX4:a defibrillator with this IP rating is not protected against solids but is protected against water spray from any direction.
• IP54: A defibrillator that has achieved this IP rating would be protected from limited dust ingress and water spray.
• IP56: This rating means the defibrillator is protected against limited dust ingress and high-pressure water jets from any direction.

For high-risk environments, choosing a defibrillator equipped with a higher IP rating ensures the device is capable of withstanding the risks.

High-Risk Ready

To explore which defibrillator is suited to your high-risk environment, download our Buyer’s Guide.

Alternatively, explore all our defibrillator options to create a heart safe environment.

defibshop are committed to equipping everyone with the skills and knowledge to save a life. Speak to one of our Product Specialists on 0161 776 7422 or fill out our Contact Form.  

Photo by Keith Dodrill on Unsplash