Having an AED on-site is meaningfully different from having one that's actually ready to use in a genuine emergency. Here are the placement mistakes we see most frequently when reviewing existing installations.
Mistake 1: Hiding It in an Office or Storage Room
An AED locked away in an HR office or storage cupboard for "safekeeping" defeats the purpose entirely. Devices need to be visible and reachable from common walkways, not tucked away.
Mistake 2: No Directional Signage
A sign directly above the cabinet helps only someone already standing in front of it. Larger buildings need directional signage — similar to fire extinguisher signs — pointing toward the nearest unit from a distance.
Mistake 3: One Unit for a Multi-Floor Building
Relying on elevators during an emergency is unreliable, and a single ground-floor AED provides poor coverage for staff working several floors up.
Mistake 4: Placing It Inside the Highest-Risk Area
Putting the only AED inside a gym or sports court, rather than just outside it, can mean the device becomes inaccessible during an evacuation of that exact space.
Mistake 5: No One Assigned to Check It
Without clear ownership, monthly status checks quietly stop happening — leaving batteries or pads to expire unnoticed.
Mistake 6: Forgetting Outdoor or Warehouse Areas
Facilities with outdoor yards, warehouses, or detached buildings often only equip the main office, leaving physically demanding work areas with the least coverage.
Get a Second Opinion on Your Current Setup
If your AED has been in the same spot since installation with no formal review, it's worth a fresh look. Our AED Installation team can assess your current placement and recommend improvements.
Get a Second Opinion on Your Current Setup
Heart First Response supplies, installs, maintains and trains organizations on AEDs across Dubai, United Arab Emirates and the wider Gulf region. Call us on +971 52 1746500 or visit heartfirstaed.com to get started.
