New life-saving equipment and training has been introduced in four offices across Scotland by Capital Document Solutions.
Automatic external defibrillators (AED) will be placed at the receptions of offices in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen and Inverness with training on how to properly use the technology in the event of an emergency provided to 215 members of staff nationwide.
The firm, which specialises in office equipment and document solutions, implemented these measures in response to recommendations from the company’s health and safety committee that the machines could save lives in the event of a cardiac arrest on the premises.
Without CPR and a defibrillator being utilised following a cardiac arrest, an individual’s survival rate is reduced by 10 per cent every minute.
The £4,000 investment was made to ensure the working environment is as safe as possible for both staff and visitors.
The defibrillators are held at office receptions in case of emergency with each machine stored in a cabinet, clearly identified by a green sign.
Staff members across the country will be trained on how and when to use the automatic defibrillators through short 10-minute lessons.
Andy Wood, Environment and Facilities Officer, said: “Although I hope we will never have to use the defibrillators, if required, they could save the life of someone in cardiac arrest; whether it’s a customer, member of staff or even a member of the public outside or in a neighbouring business.
“These machines are a great step forward to improving safety within any company. Of course, it’s vital that all staff members receive the proper guidance to know how and when to use the equipment safely and effectively, as well having the confidence to do so.
“This significant move is not only an investment in our staff but also highlights Capital’s ongoing commitment to the wellbeing of the local community as part of our continued corporate social responsibility drive.”
The locations of Capital’s AEDs are registered on the Heartsafe website http://www.aedlocator.org - the UK’s leading Public Access Defibrillator website.
Scotland’s largest independent supplier of office equipment and document solutions, Capital employs 215 people at operations in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Dundee, Aberdeen, Inverness and Shetland.
The company works closely with clients in the private, public and voluntary sectors. It also provides service and support devices onshore and offshore installations including North Sea assets and vessels.
Working alongside leading brands including Ricoh, Konica Minolta, HP and Fujitsu, Capital provides copiers, printers, scanners and print management software with comprehensive national maintenance and training support.
For further information visit www.capital-solutions.co.uk