Monday, 16 October, 2023
Commercial Occupational Health Services Limited (COHS) has donated lifesaving equipment to its local business association in Honley.
The doctor-led company has provided essential pads for four defibrillators located within the village.
The pads are specifically designed for administering electrical shocks to the heart in cases of sudden cardiac arrest (SCA).
The Heart of Occupational Health Care
COHS sponsors Honley Junior Football Club (Under 16s) and is a Honley Business Association (HBA) member.
HBA, supported by their members – The Allied pub and Taylors Foodstore – as well as the Honley branch of Yorkshire Building Society, supplied the lifesaving defibrillators in Honley. They can be found in Jagger Lane Recreational Ground, outside Taylors and The Allied, and in Queens Square Business Park, near Magdale.
COHS Director Richard Dean, who is an assistant coach of the local football team, said: “Sport plays a crucial role in child development. It teaches teamwork, discipline and resilience while promoting physical fitness and a healthy lifestyle.
“Defibrillators can be lifesaving devices in cases of sudden cardiac arrest and having them readily available in public spaces can make all the difference.
“We believe in ensuring our young players receive the best care, should they or their families need it on or off the pitch. We hope our donation will help our community to respond effectively in an emergency.”
Championing Community Health
HBA recognises the long-term commitment required to maintain the accessibility and effectiveness of the defibrillators, which includes funding for costly replacement batteries and updating the defibrillator pads.
HBA Secretary June McLean, owner of Zebra Jewellery and Gifts, said: “Our collective efforts to secure funding for replacement batteries, which typically last only five years (less if faulty), and defibrillator pads that expire after two years, are a testament to our unwavering commitment to the safety and wellbeing of our community, both young and old.”
HBA is keen to receive ongoing funding from local businesses and organisations that can help sponsor the defibrillators within the village. Anyone who can help is asked to contact HBA by email.
Richard said: “We encourage other businesses to join us in making a positive impact on their communities. Whether it’s through contributing to local charities or investing in essential safety equipment every effort counts.
“Together we can create a network of care and support that can only benefit our community. We believe that by giving back we can make a lasting difference in the lives of those around us. It’s not just good for business, it’s good for the heart and soul of our community.”
Lifesaving Tips from COHS
Dr Nicola Dann, director of COHS, said defibrillator pads are designed to ensure proper electrical contact with a patient’s chest. They allow the defibrillator to deliver the necessary electrical shock to restore a normal heart rhythm.
“Using a defibrillator is a critical step in saving a life during a sudden cardiac arrest. You don’t need prior training as the defibrillator will guide you through the process with clear audio instructions and images. Remember, it’s always better to use one than not.
“While a paramedic can provide cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) guidance, having some training in CPR is beneficial, but don’t hesitate to use a defibrillator even if you haven’t had formal training – it can make all the difference in those crucial moments,” said Dr Dann.