While modern AED defibrillators are designed to be used by anyone, formal training dramatically increases the speed, confidence, and effectiveness of a bystander’s response to cardiac arrest. In Ireland, accessible, accredited CPR and AED training is available to individuals, workplaces, and community groups, and it could be the most valuable investment you ever make.

Why Training Matters

Research from the Irish OHCAR registry shows that bystander CPR was performed in 84% of cardiac arrests in 2022 — a figure that has improved steadily thanks to national awareness campaigns and increased training provision. More importantly, where members of the public used a defibrillator before ambulance crews arrived, the survival rate was 31%, compared to the overall rate of just 7.3%. Training transforms hesitant bystanders into confident first responders.

What Does AED Training Cover?

A typical accredited first aid training course from Heartsafety Solutions covers how to recognise the signs of cardiac arrest, how to call for help effectively, correct CPR technique including compression depth and rate, how to use an AED safely and effectively, how to manage the situation until emergency services arrive, and special considerations such as using an AED on children or in wet environments.

Courses are available as in-person sessions, blended learning (combining online theory with practical skills sessions), and refresher courses for those who have previously completed training. Heartsafety Solutions trains over 12,500 people every year, and courses are PHECC-recognised.

Who Should Be Trained?

While having designated first aiders is essential, the ideal scenario is that as many people as possible in your workplace or community are trained in CPR and AED use. The more people who know how to respond, the greater the chance that someone with the right skills will be present when an emergency occurs.

Employers should consider including AED training as part of their health and safety induction for new staff, and scheduling regular refresher courses for existing employees. Sports clubs should train coaches, committee members, and volunteers. Schools should train teachers, administrative staff, and caretakers. Contact Heartsafety Solutions to arrange training for your organisation.

Combining Training with the Right Equipment

Training is most effective when people can practise on the same type of AED they’ll encounter in a real emergency. When you purchase or rent an AED from Heartsafety Solutions, training can be tailored to the specific model in your workplace or community space. Our consulting services can also help you develop a comprehensive cardiac emergency response plan that integrates your equipment, training, and procedures into a cohesive, effective system.

Explore our full range of AED defibrillators, accessories, and storage solutions, or get in touch to start planning your AED programme today.