Should defibrillator cabinets be locked or unlocked? Everything you need to know

Buying a defibrillator is just the first step when it comes to protecting your workplace or community from sudden cardiac arrest. Ensuring that it’s accessible, visible and easy to find in an emergency is as important as having one in the first place. When installing your defibrillator, one of the most important decisions to make is whether your cabinet should be locked or unlocked. Depending on where your defibrillator is going to be located, security can be an issue but accessibility during a cardiac emergency is just as critical and the cabinet you choose can have a direct impact on response times and patient outcomes.

This decision becomes even more difficult when considering how your defibrillator will stay protected particularly during the winter months that can bring additional challenges for access, maintenance and reliability of your device.

In this guide, we’ll explore the advantages and disadvantages of locked and unlocked defibrillator cabinets to help you make an informed decision when it comes to protecting your defibrillator.

Why is cabinet accessibility so important?

Automated external defibrillators (AEDs) are designed to be used by anyone, whether trained or untrained. When sudden cardiac arrest occurs, early CPR and defibrillation before emergency services arrive is critical to survival.

Any barrier to defibrillator access can delay treatment. So, choosing between a locked and unlocked cabinet plays an important role in how quickly the equipment can be retrieved in an emergency.

Advantages of locked defibrillator cabinets

There are a number of advantages when it comes to locked defibrillator cabinets including:

1. Security and theft deterrence

If your defibrillator is going to be in a public place or community setting, a locked cabinet can deter theft and vandalism, protecting your device and ensuring that it remains in its dedicated location. Not only are defibrillators a significant investment, it’s also essential that, when emergency services direct a responder to your defibrillator, that it’s still there. Arriving at a cabinet to find the defibrillator is no longer there can waste precious time in an emergency.

2. Controlled access

A locked cabinet allows control over who has access to a defibrillator, particularly in public or semi-public spaces where unauthorised use by untrained individuals could lead to misuse or damage, or accidental removal of accessories such as pads and batteries.

When registered with The Circuit, emergency services can provide responders with the code to your cabinet for access.

3. Maintenance and equipment protection

While AEDs perform their own automatic self-checks, physical checks are also essential. Locked cabinets protect the device from tampering or unauthorised handling, ensuring they remain rescue ready at all times.

4. Liability reduction

Securing AEDs in locked cabinets can reduce the legal risks associated with tampering or unauthorised use. Demonstrating a structured and responsible AED management system supports liability protection and compliance with safety standards.

Disadvantages of locked defibrillator cabinets

While locked cabinets provide a range of benefits, there are also a few drawbacks to be considered.

1. Delayed access during emergencies

The biggest disadvantage of locked cabinets is the potential delay in accessing the defibrillator in an emergency. When sudden cardiac arrest strikes, seconds matter and, any obstacle such as retrieving a key, remembering a code or waiting for instructions can reduce the chances of survival.

2. User intimidation or hesitation

Locked cabinets can deter bystanders who are unfamiliar with defibrillators and how they’re used. In a high-stress situation, uncertainty about how to access the device can discourage some from attempting to retrieve the device at all.

3. Costs

Installing and maintaining locking mechanisms can add to the overall cost of AED deployment. Expenses include purchasing a secure cabinet, maintaining locks and training staff on access protocols.

4. Maintenance challenges

Locks are mechanical systems that are subject to wear and tear. If the locking mechanism malfunctions, the defibrillator can become completely inaccessible when it’s really needed in an emergency.

Cold weather and moisture can increase the likelihood of failure, making regular inspection and testing essential, particularly during the winter.

5. Access management complexity

Managing keys or access codes can introduce additional logistical challenges. Codes can be forgotten or incorrectly communicated, and keys can be misplaced or unavailable. Poor access management can delay retrieval or result in keys falling into the wrong hands.

6. Community confidence and perception

Locked cabinets can be perceived as a lack of trust in the community’s ability to act responsibly. This can discourage public engagement or willingness to assist during an emergency.

Should you choose an unlocked defibrillator cabinet?

Unlocked cabinets can remove many of the barriers associated with delayed access.

Key advantages include:

• Immediate access during emergencies
• Reduced hesitation for untrained bystanders
• No risk of lock failure
• Faster retrieval and response times

While vandalism and theft are relatively rare, delays caused by locked cabinets can pose a far greater risk to survival than the risks of leaving a cabinet unlocked.

How to decide between locked and unlocked defibrillator cabinets

There is no right answer when it comes to choosing a defibrillator cabinet. When installing a defibrillator in a public or community space, carry out a local risk assessment which takes the following into consideration:

• Location and footfall
• Level of public access required
• Risk of vandalism or theft
• Maintenance capacity
• Community confidence and training

The choice between a locked and unlocked cabinet is usually a balance between security and speed of access during an emergency. Locking cabinets can offer reassurance in some places, delayed access can pose a risk to patient survival.

When choosing a cabinet, it’s essential to prioritise accessibility, clear communication and regular maintenance to ensure your defibrillator stays rescue ready.

If you'd like further advice on choosing the right product for your needs, please contact our expert customer service team.