CPR, AED & First Aid Training

The EH&S Office is an accredited ASHI (American Safety and Health Institute) training center for CPR, AED and Basic First Aid. A small cost is associated with each class to cover supplies and a certification card; the employee's department covers this.

• Job-Required Training: For University & Classified employees who require CPR or Basic First Aid for their employment at William & Mary, please reach out to [[safety]] with your request.
• Staff, Student & Student Employee Training: Students and staff can sign up for a class at any time on the Red Cross website. The Philips Heartstart OnSite AED Demonstration Video demonstrates CPR and the use of the Philips Heartstart AED.

Table of Contents

• Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Program
• Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Program
• First Aid

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Program

CPR is a hands-on skills training that prepares you to respond to breathing and cardiac emergencies. It is taught in conjunction with the use of an AED. The class can certify individuals to perform CPR on adults, children, and infants.

Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Program

AEDs are portable defibrillators that deliver an electrical shock in an effort to revive a person who has suffered a sudden cardiac arrest. These devices are rapidly gaining recognition as lifesaving tools because they are easy to use and deliver an electrical shock only when appropriate.

Federal laws have been established that provide "Good Samaritan" protections for anyone who uses an AED to try to revive a person in cardiac arrest. AEDs do not replace CPR or otherwise appropriate training in emergency situations, but delivering an electrical shock to a person in cardiac arrest quickly is the most important part of the CPR process.

The EH&S Department acts as the program administrator for William & Mary’s Automatic External Defibrillator Program and is responsible for:

• Overseeing the installation of AEDs at selected locations throughout the campus.
• Serves as the point of contact for Site Coordinators and Authorized Users.
• Assists building coordinators with monthly inspections of units and associated equipment.

AED Resources

• AED Program 
• Campus Map with AED locations

AED Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of medical oversight is there for William & Mary’s AED Program? The AED Program has a Medical Director who is responsible for reviewing and approving the training program, as well as the protocols for AED use and the certification process. The Medical Director reviews every event in which an AED is used and is available to conduct post-incident sessions for university employees involved in AED use. AED units at William & Mary are used under the direction of Virginia Wells, MD.

Who coordinates the AED Program? The EH&S office staff coordinates the AED program on campus. They serve as the point of contact for William & Mary. They are available in person, by phone, or by email to answer any questions from individuals interested in the program.

What training is required before I can use an AED? There are two options for AED training. Option one is a general knowledge training that takes about 30 to 45 minutes. This training does not provide certification, but rather serves as a familiarization training for the AED. The second and best option for using an AED to the fullest is to complete the CPR and AED certification. This training, which lasts approximately four hours, provides a two-year certification in CPR and AED.  William & Mary faculty and staff interested in being trained in the use of an AED should contact the EH&S office at [[safety]].

How can I get an AED in my building? If you are interested in having an AED unit installed in your building, please email [[safety]] requesting an AED purchase and assistance with site placement. The email must include a banner index number for the purchase, as each department is responsible for the purchase, maintenance, and training costs associated with the AED unit.

How much does an AED unit cost? The list price for an AED unit is approximately $1,500, which includes the fast-response kit, cabinet, and signage for the unit. There are two types of ongoing costs to support your AED unit. The batteries must be replaced approximately every four years, and the pads for the AED unit have a two-year shelf life. Also, if the AED unit is used, you will need to replace the unit’s battery and pads before it can be put back into service.

First Aid

Students and staff can sign up for a First Aid class at any time on the Red Cross website. The purpose of the First Aid training program is to help individuals identify and eliminate potentially hazardous conditions in their environment, recognize emergencies, and make appropriate care decisions. 

It teaches skills participants need to provide immediate care for a suddenly ill or injured person until more advanced medical care arrives to take over. The course includes hands-on skills practice for students and a two-year certification. Please contact [[safety]] for more details or assistance with registration.