KBzine: the original kitchen and bathroom industry e-news - since 2002
28th January 2021
We strongly recommend viewing KBzine full size in your web browser. Click our masthead above to visit our website version.
Wilsonart invests in life-saving defibrillator
The head office of Wilsonart laminates in Shildon, County Durham now has an automated external defibrillator (AED).
Whilst it is not compulsory for companies/employers to invest in these lifesaving machines, Wilsonart ,which employs over 150 people at its busy manufacturing, sales and marketing facility in Shildon, recognised that people are becoming familiar with the concept and use of the machines in all walks of life.
Training in the use of automated external defibrillators is not currently part of either the Emergency First Aid at Work and First Aid at Work courses but the Health & Safety Executive welcomes the presence of and any awareness of associated training as it instils greater confidence in the use of AEDs.
Holly Turnbull for Wilsonart explains: "The Resuscitation Council UK guidance on AEDs is that this equipment is safe to use and can be readily used by untrained bystanders. They are now commonplace in places of education, travel, hospitality and care. We are just one of many companies that have voluntarily invested in the equipment."
Evidence suggests that where AEDs have been used the outcomes are far more favourable for an individual who suffers from a heart attack than if it is delayed until the arrival of the emergency services.
Our picture shows Garry Applegarth (left), maintenance co-ordinator, and Scott Howdon, operations manager, with the new AED before its installation.
30th July 2019