Top 5 AED FAQs

1. What is an AED and how does it work?

An AED (Automated External Defibrillator) is a portable device that analyses a person's heart rhythm and delivers an electric shock if it detects a life threatening arrhythmia, restoring a normal rhythm during sudden cardiac arrest. Once switched on, the AED uses voice and visual prompts to guide the rescuer step by step, from attaching the pads to the patient's chest, through rhythm analysis, to delivering a shock if one is needed. The device will only advise a shock if it detects a shockable rhythm, so it cannot be used incorrectly on someone who doesn't need one.

2. Do I need training to use a defibrillator?

No. AEDs are specifically designed to be used by untrained bystanders in an emergency. Once switched on, the device talks you through every step with clear voice and visual prompts, and it will only deliver a shock if it detects a rhythm that needs one. That said, familiarity helps: taking a short CPR and AED awareness course means you'll react faster and with more confidence if the moment comes. Every minute defibrillation is delayed reduces the casualty's chances of survival by roughly 10%, so time matters more than training.

3. Is having a defibrillator a legal requirement in Ireland?

There's no blanket legal requirement for Irish workplaces or schools to have an AED on site. The HSE and the Health and Safety Authority both work on a risk-assessment basis: under the HSA's Guide to the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Application) Regulations 2007, employers are expected to consider providing an AED as part of their first aid risk assessment, based on factors like footfall, workforce age profile, and how far away emergency services are. In practice, many workplaces, schools, GAA clubs and construction sites choose to install one anyway, both as good practice and because insurers and governing bodies increasingly expect it.

4. How much does a defibrillator cost?

In Ireland, AEDs typically range from around €900 to €2,500+, depending on the brand, whether it's semi automatic or fully automatic, warranty length, and included accessories. When comparing prices, check exactly what's included: some listings are the AED unit only, while others bundle in pads, a battery, a carry case and a cabinet. It's also worth budgeting for replacement pads and batteries over the AED's lifespan (see below), plus a wall cabinet if you don't already have somewhere secure and visible to store it.

5. How much maintenance does an AED need, and how often should it be serviced?

Most modern AEDs run automatic self-checks daily, weekly or monthly and show a simple status light or indicator confirming the device is ready to use, so day-to-day maintenance is minimal. However, batteries and pads have a fixed shelf life, typically 2–5 years depending on the model and pads must always be replaced after use since they're single use. We'd recommend a periodic professional check on top of the AED's own self-tests, since a self-test can't catch everything, such as confirming the actual energy output. We test the energy output and service any AED, regardless of brand, as part of our AED testing & servicing offer.