Automatic External Defibrillators (AEDs)

The University of Otago provides Automatic External Defibrillators (AEDs) on campus as a part of their comprehensive emergency management plan. The aim is to provide AEDs within the recommended 3 minute period as initial first aid response following a potential cardiac event.

What is an AED?

An automated external defibrillator (AED) is used to treat victims who experience sudden cardiac arrest. It is only to be applied to victims who are unconscious, not breathing normally and showing no signs of circulation, such as normal breathing, coughing and movement.

The AED will analyze the heart rhythm and advise the operator if a shockable rhythm is detected. If a shockable rhythm is detected, the AED will charge to the appropriate energy level and advise the operator to deliver a shock.

AEDs could significantly improve the chance of survival for a victim of sudden cardiac arrest. A victim's chance of survival is reduced by ten percent with every minute that passes without CPR and defibrillation. Few attempts at resuscitation succeed after ten minutes.

If the AED in your area starts to beep at any stage please contact the Health and Safety Office and we will arrange for the unit to be checked and serviced.

AEDs on campus map

Contact the Health, Safety and Wellbeing team with any questions regarding AED maintenance or use.
Email hsa@otago.ac.nz