A defibrillator can mean the difference between life and death during a sudden cardiac arrest. This Defibrillator Guide explains where to find one quickly in public spaces or workplaces, when to act, and who is allowed to use it. Whether it's a semi-automatic defibrillator or a Fully Automatic Defibrillator, knowing how to respond could save a life. From understanding defib locations to choosing the right model, this buyer’s guide gives you clear, practical advice to make informed decisions in emergencies.
Accessing a Defibrillator
How can I recognise a Defibrillator?
There are different makes of defibrillator, and they come in different shapes and sizes. Defibrillator cabinets are usually labelled with a symbol showing a heart with a lightning bolt. Look for this sign:
Where can I find my nearest Defibrillator locations?
The Circuit, launched in 2021, is the national defibrillator network that maps defib locations across the UK, directly connecting them to each ambulance service. Always dial 999 immediately in an emergency, and they will direct you to your nearest defibrillator.
Defibrillators can often be found in or outside public places such as:
- Train stations
- Airports
- Supermarkets
- Shopping centres
- Gyms
- Village halls
What if the Defibrillator is in a locked cabinet?
Call 999/112 for an ambulance, and provide the emergency operator with the number of the defibrillator written on the cabinet. The ambulance service will have the code to open these cabinets
It’s useful to check how to access your local defibrillator before having to use it.
Is it a legal requirement to have a Defibrillator at my workplace?
There is no legal requirement to have a defibrillator in your workplace, but your risk assessment might identify the need for one. Defibrillators are especially important if your workplace is remote or if there could be a significant delay in ambulance service arrival.
Having an on-site defibrillator is also valuable if:
- You have an ageing workforce
- There has been a history of cardiac conditions
- Your workplace frequently hosts large numbers of the general public, such as in a supermarket.
Using a Defibrillator
Do you need to be trained to use a Defibrillator?
No – the defibrillator will guide you through the process with simple voice instructions and visual prompts. However, we recommend everyone take defibrillator training to ensure familiarity with the device and confidence in an emergency.
Anyone can safely use a defibrillator. Do not wait for the emergency services to arrive to start treating the casualty.
Are Defibrillators easy to use?
Yes, all makes of defibrillator provide voice instructions or visual prompts guiding you through each step, from performing CPR to attaching the defibrillator pads.
All defibrillators check the heart rhythm to determine if a shock is needed. If it’s an automatic defibrillator, it will deliver a shock automatically. If it’s a semi automatic model, the voice instructions will prompt you to press a button to deliver the shock.
Any defibrillator can be used by anyone, even without training. However, taking defibrillator training will boost your confidence in an emergency.
Do I still need to do CPR if I use a Defibrillator?
Yes, start CPR as soon as possible.
It’s best to learn CPR in advance, so you know exactly what to do. Learn from our CPR how-to guide or take a training course.
Bystander CPR and using an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) can increase survival chances by 2 to 4 times in the event of sudden cardiac arrest (Resuscitation Council UK).
The defibrillator will indicate when to start and stop CPR and guide you through the process.
Important: Do not touch the casualty while the defibrillator administers a shock.
Can you hurt someone by using a Defibrillator?
No. If a person isn't in cardiac arrest, the defibrillator will not deliver a shock, even if you press the button, as it detects a heartbeat.
By using an AED defib, you increase the person’s chances of survival.
Different casualty scenarios
Can a defibrillator be used on children?
Yes, standard defibrillator pads are suitable for children over the age of eight.
For children aged between one and eight years, use a paediatric defibrillator or standard defib pads with paediatric settings. In an emergency, if only an adult defibrillator is available, it can still be used.
There is limited data on using defibrillators on children under one, but if it’s the only option, it’s better than nothing at all.
Can a Defibrillator be used on pregnant women?
There is no indication that defibrillators should not be used during pregnancy.
What if the casualty has a pacemaker or implantable cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD)?
Still use the defibrillator. If you see or feel a device under the skin, avoid placing the pads directly over it.
What about medication patches?
Remove any patches on the chest before applying the defibrillator pads.
Can a Defibrillator be used if it’s wet or raining?
Yes, but ensure:
- The casualty’s chest is dry before use
- There is no direct contact between the rescuer and the casualty when the shock is delivered.
Things you may need to do as a rescuer
Will I need to remove the casualty’s clothes?
Remove any clothing or jewellery that could interfere with the defib pads. The pads must be attached to bare skin, including metal items like an underwired bra.
Do I have to shave the casualty’s chest?
If chest hair prevents good contact with the pads, shave it off. Some defibrillators come with razors, so ensure one is available if you’re responsible for maintaining the defibrillator.
Technical questions
What’s the difference between an automatic and semi-automatic Defibrillator?
An automatic defibrillator delivers a shock automatically. A semi-automatic defibrillator requires the rescuer to push a button to deliver the shock.
Some defibrillators feature a manual override, allowing emergency responders to initiate a charge and shock, often used by paramedics and advanced life support professionals.
Does the Defibrillator have a memory chip?
Yes, defibrillators record when they’re used. The memory chip logs:
- The heart rhythm at the time the pads were applied
- Whether a shock was delivered, and its outcome
- This data may be downloaded later for research or statistical purposes.
