SHAH ALAM, Aug 11 — Selangor is deciding on an enforcement date to mandate automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in all new buildings in the state, with an announcement expected soon.
State executive councillor for public health and environment Jamaliah Jamaluddin said for older premises, installation will be carried out in phases based on priority, once the policy takes effect.
“The state government strongly encourages building owners, management bodies, and non-governmental organisations to take the initiative and provide AEDs in their premises, including those that are mandated to do so.
“Management bodies should ensure their staff are trained in using AEDs and performing CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) at least once a year,” she told Media Selangor.
Jamaliah said enforcement will be carried out with agencies such as the Fire and Rescue Department and the Occupational Safety and Health Department, and building management bodies will be required to appoint an officer-in-charge and submit information on their AED facilities to local authorities for monitoring.
“These information include the AED’s location, photos, and maintenance status,” she said.
On August 6, Jamaliah said Selangor will require that new buildings be equipped with AEDs to strengthen emergency response and save lives.
She said the state government is gathering feedback from local councils to ensure effective implementation.
An AED is a portable, battery-operated device that delivers an electric shock to a patient in cardiac arrest to restore normal heart rhythm.
Since February, AEDs have been installed in state government buildings, local councils, and state-owned companies throughout Selangor.
