The Importance of Defibrillators in Automotive Workshops Handling Electric & Hybrid Vehicles

​In recent years, electric and hybrid vehicles have become a common sight on our roads, revolutionising the automotive industry. However, with the rise of these vehicles comes a heightened need for specific safety measures in workshops where they are serviced and repaired. One critical safety tool that is often overlooked in many automotive workshops is the automated external defibrillator (AED).

While defibrillators are already a staple in many workplaces, they are becoming increasingly vital in automotive workshops that specialise in electric and hybrid vehicles.

As stated in the Australian Standard 5732:2022, it is now recommended to have an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) within 200 m of the designated working area of electric vehicle repairs.

This new standard provides additional guidance on safety and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), particularly regarding electrical hazards and the availability of an automated external defibrillator (AED).

Under section 4.2.5, immediate availability (within 200m of the competent person) of an AED is recommended in a workshop environment where any electric vehicle is undergoing repairs to its electrical systems.
An AED should be applied as quickly as possible (ideally within 3 mins).

The Unique Risks of Electric & Hybrid Vehicles

Electric and hybrid vehicles are powered by high-voltage battery systems, which present specific hazards not found in traditional internal combustion engine vehicles. These systems can carry voltages of up to 400-800 volts or more, and if mishandled, they can lead to electric shock, fire, or even explosions. In addition to electrical risks, other potential dangers include:

• Battery fires: High-voltage battery packs are susceptible to fire, especially if damaged during maintenance or repair.
• Thermal Runaway: In rare cases, the battery can overheat and result in a thermal runaway event, where the temperature continues to rise uncontrollably.
• Electrocution: Technicians working on these vehicles are at risk of severe electrical shock if proper precautions are not taken, especially when working on high-voltage systems.

These specific risks highlight the need for automotive workshops to be equipped with the proper safety gear, training, and response tools.

The Critical Role of AEDs in Workshops

In the event of an electrical shock, the human body’s response can be immediate and severe. An electric shock from a high-voltage source can cause the heart to go into ventricular fibrillation—a chaotic, ineffective rhythm that prevents the heart from pumping blood effectively. Without immediate treatment, this can lead to cardiac arrest and, if not addressed within minutes, can be fatal.

This is where an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) becomes crucial. AEDs are portable, easy-to-use devices designed to deliver an electric shock to the heart to restore a normal rhythm in the event of cardiac arrest. The quick administration of defibrillation within the first few minutes of a shock can increase a victim’s chance of survival significantly.

Given the dangers associated with electric and hybrid vehicles, automotive workshops are at an increased risk for incidents of electrical shock and other accidents. It is essential for every workshop that works on these vehicles to have an AED on hand, along with trained personnel who know how to use it effectively.

 Legal and Insurance Considerations

In Australia, safety regulations are becoming stricter when it comes to workplace health and safety, especially in environments where there are elevated risks. While the specific requirement for AEDs in automotive workshops varies depending on location and workshop size, businesses should not underestimate the potential liabilities of not having one available.

Having an AED in place can:

• Mitigate risk: In the event of a medical emergency, having an AED on site reduces the time between cardiac arrest and treatment, which can be the difference between life and death.
• Ensure compliance: Some industry guidelines or insurance policies may require AEDs in specific work environments, especially in those where electrical hazards are prevalent.
• Improve response times: The faster a cardiac arrest victim receives defibrillation, the better their chances of survival. AEDs are designed for quick use by non-medical personnel, making them an invaluable tool in an emergency.

 Staff Training and Preparedness

Having an AED is only part of the solution. Workshop staff, especially those working directly with electric and hybrid vehicles, should be trained not only in how to use the AED but also in basic first aid and CPR. Understanding the risks involved with high-voltage systems is equally important, and staff should receive regular safety training on how to safely handle electric and hybrid vehicles.

Many AED devices are designed to guide users through the process step-by-step with clear audio and visual prompts, making them accessible even to those with no prior medical experience. This ensures that in an emergency, there’s no confusion about how to act quickly and effectively.

A Smart and Life-Saving Investment

As electric and hybrid vehicles continue to dominate the automotive industry, the safety standards in workshops must evolve to meet new challenges. By equipping automotive workshops with AEDs, along with comprehensive safety training, you’re not only protecting your staff and customers but also ensuring your business is ready for any emergency situation. Investing in an AED could be the difference between life and death—and it’s a simple, cost-effective step every automotive workshop should take to safeguard their workforce.

For businesses that care about the health and safety of their team, having an AED in place is not just a smart decision, it’s an essential one.