Workplace Lifesavers

A man saved at work by a fast thinking co-worker and an AED.   

David Lynn works at the Michelin plant in Spartanburg, one of many employers that train employees on how to use Automated External Defibrillators.

And with 10,000 sudden cardiac arrests in workplaces across the nation every year, health experts say these machines are a must-have.

AEDs cost anywhere from $1,200 to $3,000 each. The American Red Cross says the training to learn how to use one takes about six hours because you're taught CPR along with it.

For many employers these days, it's time and money well spent.

Just ask Lynn. He says his heart stopped Wednesday while he was at work.

“I remember getting dizzy and short of breath. And I remember waking up on a back board,” said Lynn.

His wife, Andrea, remembers getting the phone call.

“Oh, it scared me to death,” she said. “I thought he was gone.”

Doctors say two things saved Lynn’s life: his coworker and an AED.

“The good thing was that there was an external defibrillator immediately available in that workplace at Michelin. And that's a major,” said Dr. John Gallagher, a cardiologist at Spartanburg Regional Medical Center

And it's catching on.

The Red Cross says employers having AEDs on-hand is much more common than in years past.

“Many employers are beginning to realize the necessity and the importance of having an AED close at hand in case an employee experiences some kind of cardiac arrest,” said Brian Scoles, with the American Red Cross Western Carolinas Region.

The device makes it easy to use. It includes an automated voice that walks you through the process, step by step.

And if you're certified in CPR/AED training in South Carolina, there are laws in place to protect you against any liability issues.

The idea is so people won't be afraid to use one, in a life or death situation.

"Getting an AED involved in somebody's care within the first 10 minutes increases their survival from 5 to 7 percent all the way up to 50 to 60 percent,” said Scoles.

Lynn is living proof.

“It makes you feel good to know that they look out for you like that,” said Lynn. “And there are people to take care of you if you need it.”

Another important thing to remember in all of this is don't forget to call 911. Health experts say, while AEDs can save lives, it's important to make sure you also call 911 in one of these situations to ensure that emergency officials won't be too far behind.

The American Red Cross and the American Heart Association offer CPR/AED training classes throughout the Upstate.