NEWS UPDATE | DEFIBRILLATORS NOW MANDATORY IN SA PUBLIC BUILDINGS

A groundbreaking Australian first law has been introduced in South Australia, making it mandatory for defibrillators to be publicly accessible in a range of public and private buildings. The Automated External Defibrillators (Public Access) Bill 2022 was introduced into the Legislative Council on 7 September 2022 and passed both Houses of Parliament on 30 November 2023.

In South Australia, defibrillators are now compulsory fixtures in all public buildings, including educational institutions, libraries, sports facilities, correctional facilities, municipal offices, theatres, and swimming pools. Additionally, privately owned establishments such as shopping centres, aged care facilities, commercial properties exceeding 600 square metres, and specific residential complexes are required to have publicly accessible defibs.

Legislation Overview

The bill, originally proposed by Frank Pangallo in 2019 and subsequently reintroduced in 2022, successfully passed, marking a significant advancement in the safety and well-being of South Australians. It mandates the installation of defibs in all emergency service vehicles, encompassing SAPOL, the Metropolitan Fire Service, the Country Fire Service, and the State Emergency Service.

Impact and Benefits

Australia witnesses over 30,000 cases of cardiac arrest annually, with only one in ten individuals surviving. The implementation of this legislation marks a pivotal stride in reducing the mortality rate associated with Sudden Cardiac Arrest in the country. It follows the lead of the Victorian Government, which has rolled out more than 1500 new defibrillators to community organisations in recent years. It is believed that at least 2 lives per week are saved by the use of AEDs in public locations.

Frank Pangallo emphasizes the urgency of the situation, stating, “The statistics not only speak for themselves but also paint a very disturbing, very deadly picture.” Violators of the new legislation face a maximum fine of $20,000.

Full article here

USS’s Response

At USS, we recognise the importance of this legislation and are committed to supporting organisations in South Australia to comply with these new requirements. We offer a range of HeartSine defibrillators, ensuring that businesses and public venues have access to reliable life-saving equipment.

Get Your Defibrillator Today!

Ensure your organisation is compliant with the new legislation. Visit USS today to explore our range of HeartSine defibrillators and accessories. Contact us to learn more and order your defibrillator today.