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 June 30 2024, it is compulsory for all WA public school grounds to have a minimum of one AED situated outside 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.
Defibrillators in schools rules & regulations
Recent updates to West Australian laws reinforce the importance of all WA public schools to have defibrillators.
Mandatory Installation: The updated 2023/2024 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 double the chance of survival in a cardiac arrest.
Accessible Placement: AEDs should be placed to ensure easy access during emergencies. The Mandate requires 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. Clear signage ensures that anyone on the school premises can quickly locate the AED in a medical emergency.
Storage: It is crucial to ensure the AED is stored in a dust and water free environment in a shaded area, so it doesn’t exceed the storage temperatures. We recommend using a sealed outdoor cabinet and mounted in a shady environment.
Choosing the right Defibrillator for your School.
When choosing a Defibrillator, you want to look at several variants.
- Cost & On-going cost
- IP Rating
- Service and maintenance
- Does it do Children and Adults?
- Joules shock range
- Defibrillator Features (CPR Coaching/Feedback)
