A Hidden Aspect of Laboratory Safety

A survey of Oregon State University Department of Chemistry personnel revealed that few of the faculty and graduate student respondents (only 6.7% and 8.3%, respectively) reported knowing the location of the automated external defibrillator (AED) nearest their workspace. Furthermore, a minority of both faculty and graduate student respondents indicated they felt confident they could use an AED if need be. The benefits of AED use during a cardiac arrest are discussed as well as steps being taken within the Department of Chemistry to increase AED awareness and competency with respect to chemistry teaching laboratories and beyond.

Automated summary

A survey conducted among personnel of the Department of Chemistry at Oregon State University revealed that a small percentage of faculty members and graduate students know the location of the nearest automated external defibrillator (AED) to their workspace and feel confident in using it if necessary. The article discusses the benefits of AED use during cardiac arrest and the steps being taken within the department to increase AED awareness and competency, particularly in chemistry teaching laboratories.