Overview

This bill mandates the installation of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in various public places across the UK to improve survival rates from cardiac arrest. It also requires training programs and public awareness campaigns related to AED use.

Description

The bill defines an AED as a device that automatically detects and treats life-threatening heart rhythms. It requires owners of qualifying public buildings and facilities to install and maintain AEDs, with a density of at least one AED per 1200 square meters of internal floor space.

Qualifying Buildings

Qualifying buildings include local government offices, town halls, libraries, sporting facilities, educational institutions, prisons, retirement villages, caravan parks, gambling venues, theatres, and other publicly accessible buildings or facilities as defined by the Secretary of State. Exemptions exist for smaller buildings and specific property types.

Training and Awareness

The Secretary of State is tasked with creating a national training strategy and public awareness campaign on AED use, consulting with relevant bodies across the UK. This includes establishing a training scheme and certifying instructors.

Government Spending

The bill states that all expenditure incurred by ministers, government officials, or departments in implementing the Act will be funded from money provided by Parliament. Specific figures are not provided in the bill itself.

Groups Affected

• Owners of qualifying buildings and facilities: They will be responsible for purchasing, installing, maintaining, and ensuring public access to AEDs, potentially incurring costs.
• The Public: Will benefit from increased access to life-saving equipment in case of cardiac arrest.
• Training providers: May see increased demand for their services.
• Government Departments (across UK): Will be responsible for strategy implementation, regulation, and potentially providing funding.

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