For a CPAD which is open to the elements, it is important that it is fitted with an internal heater. This will be thermostatically controlled within the Cabinet. This heater is required to keep the AED at a temperature above freezing point (normally approx 5 degrees Celsius). This is required to both stop the temperature of the internal AED battery from falling below its optimal operating range and also ensuring the that AED Pads which are placed on the patient and which contain a water based gel, do not cool to an extent it degrades their performance.
A decision also needs to be made as to whether the Cabinet should be lockable or unlocked. The Resuscitation Council UK provides guidance.
This guidance is also shown at Appendix 1 to this document.
East Midlands Ambulance Service supports locked Cabinets where applicable provided that they have the code to inform persons requiring to retrieve the AED.
Leicestershire Police advise that the decision as to whether a Cabinet should be locked or not should be based on a Risk Assessment, covering such matters as the levels of local crime and vandalism, the Cabinet location, both in terms of its position in relation to the night time economy and its remoteness. If the installation is to be insured, this Risk Assessment may be of assistance in discussions with your insurer.
Many Cabinets incorporate an Observation window, making it possible to check that the AED is both in place and ready for operation without opening the Cabinet.
It will also be noted that Cabinets are now produced in a range of materials: mild steel, stainless steel, fibreglass, reinforced plastic.
Some manufacturers produce comparison data between their different types of Cabinet.
Companies which manufacture / supply Cabinets, including their web site details are numerous and can be found by googling Defibrillator Cabinets
