Access rental company installs defibrillators in every depot

Andy Smith (centre, yard manager at the Summit Platforms Birmingham depot), shows off the new defibrillator alongside director Andy Parker (right) and Birmingham depot manager Wayne Moult

SUMMIT Platforms has installed automated external defibrillators (AED) at all its depots.

The powered access and telehandler rental specialist is ramping up first aid protection for colleagues and customers by adding the devices, which can potentially save the life of a person having a sudden cardiac arrest by automatically analysing the disrupted rhythm of the heart and delivering a controlled electric shock to restore it.

The defibrillators have been installed in all 10 Summit Platforms depots, including in Glasgow.

Summit Platforms’ Steve Williams said, “The health, safety and wellbeing of our teams and customers has always been a priority. More than 60,000 people a year suffer a sudden cardiac arrest, most without realising they were at risk of such an event.

“That’s why we’re pleased to have these simple and easy-to-use AEDs in all our depots. Put simply, if someone working at, or visiting, one of our sites has a cardiac arrest, these devices are likely to make the difference between life and death.”

The AEDs will be installed in a highly visible area at each depot where they can be accessed easily by anyone. Colleagues are also being asked to view a training video showing how the devices work.

Steve Williams added, “Our depot managers and first aiders lead the process of ensuring everyone across the company is aware of the defibrillators, so they can be used quickly and effectively in case of an emergency. We will also be informing neighbouring businesses at each of our depot locations that the devices are available, so we can support others nearby if necessary.”