Cardiac arrest is a matter of minutes
When someone is unconscious and not breathing normally, every minute counts. The response rests on three key actions: alert, compress, defibrillate. Dialling 112 triggers the emergency services and provides guidance over the phone.
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
CPR means performing regular chest compressions to maintain a minimal flow of oxygenated blood to the brain and heart while waiting for the emergency services. Anyone can learn it. At work, CPR is generally taught in basic first-aid training, together with the recovery position and how to alert 112 correctly.
The chain of survival
Survival depends on a chain of survival: recognising cardiac arrest and calling 112, starting chest compressions without delay, using a defibrillator as soon as one is available, and then handing over to the specialised emergency services. For compressions, you place your hands in the centre of the chest and push firmly and regularly until help arrives or the AED is in place. Doing something is better than doing nothing: the 112 services guide the caller step by step.
The automated external defibrillator (AED)
The AED analyses the heart rhythm and, if needed, delivers an electric shock. The user places the electrodes on the casualty's chest; the device decides and delivers the shock automatically. It is designed for use by the general public, as a complement to chest compressions.
A legal framework in Belgium
The Royal Decree of 21 April 2007 sets the safety standards for the automated external defibrillator used in the context of resuscitation. AEDs installed in public places or in a vehicle must be registered with the FPS Public Health, which lists them and assigns a registration number. A circular (ICM/DGH/2022/1) clarifies their integration into the urgent medical assistance chain.
At work: anticipate
Installing a visible, signposted AED, training staff in life-saving actions and including these in the organisation of first aid all strengthen a company's ability to respond. AEDs are now found in many public places (stations, shopping centres, public offices, companies), and clear signage with a known location saves precious seconds. The AED does not replace CPR: the two are complementary.
Informative content; in a real situation, follow the instructions of 112 and, where possible, certified training.