Many body corporate developments include health & lifestyle facilities including:

  • Swimming pool
  • Gym
  • Tennis court
  • Sauna
  • Running track
  • Yoga/outdoor exercise area

As body corporate complexes offer more facilities, more Queenslanders are choosing strata complexes as their preferred home (including older residents and downsizers).

Proactive body corporate committees are increasingly considering installing AED (Automated external defibrillators) in their common property areas where cardio exercise occurs, and the risk of a heart issue may be increased.

What is an AED – Automated external defibrillator

A defibrillator is an electrical device that is applied to the chest and is used to restore normal heartbeat through an electrical pulse. You might have seen this on TV when a doctor yells “clear” and then applies metal plates to a patient’s chest to deliver an electrical charge.

These devices exist in hospitals and ambulances, however as technology improves – it is now possible to have a defibrillator at home.

An AED is an automated version of this device – it is designed to be used by a normal person without any special training. This device can greatly increase the effectiveness of CPR, while an ambulance is on its way to the location.

If an emergency occurs in the common area of your complex, or within one of the lots – a neighbour or relative could run down to the AED location in the common area, and then use the AED with the guidance of the 000 emergency operator. The device is portable so can be removed from the wall and brought to the scene of the emergency.

Why would we consider an AED?

AED are now reasonably inexpensive, battery powered and are attached to the wall (just like a fire extinguisher) waiting to be used if an emergency happens. You may start seeing AED in public places like shopping centres, commercial gyms, and schools.

If your body corporate has a demographic that may be at a higher risk of heart issues, this might be a life saving device.

What is the cost?

AED range in price, but generally start at around $3,000. They can be purchased online from the St John Ambulance website, along with other first aid kit supplies. Most AED devices have a removable battery that may require replacement in future, so there is a minor maintenance cost associated with having this preventative device.

This device would generally be within the committee’s spending limit, however feel free to check this with your BCsystems strata manager.

Check your first aid kit

It is advisable that all body corporate schemes have a stocked first aid kit, and that the location of the kit is clearly signed so that it can be found if necessary.

Resources

Defibrillators (AED) and Cabinets | St John Ambulance Australia First Aid Kits & Supplies

The First Aid Shop

*BCsystems is not affiliated any business mentioned in this article. We receive NO benefit, kickbacks or commission for mentioning or displaying links on our website

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