An automated external defibrillator (AED) is a portable and easy-to-operate medical device that analyses an unconscious victim's heart rhythm and determines if a shock is required if they are having a sudden cardiac arrest (SCA).

An AED will not deliver a shock unless its built-in computer detects a shockable heart rhythm.

Semi-automatic AEDs will prompt the rescuer to administer a shock.

AEDs are provided for use by UWA and UWA-affiliated first aid trained personnel to assist in the resuscitation of staff, students, contractors and visitors as necessary. In the absence of trained personnel a witness of a sudden cardiac arrest could act in the first instance by opening the lid of the AED and pushing it back till it locks and follow the voice and text prompts.

For Life Threatening Emergencies dial 000 (if phoning from UWA dial 0 for outside line) also dial UWA Security (+61 8) 6488 2222.

All uses of the AEDs must be reported to UWA Security and Parking (+61 8 6488 3020) and UWA Safety and Health (+61 8 6488 3938).

There is a twice-yearly maintenance and service contract on all defibrillators.

The AED sign is intended to indicate the presence of an AED or the direction to follow to reach the AED.

The University has a number of AEDs at the following locations: