Without question, the number one way to save lives is through safety education and annual refresher training in specific topics.  This can be achieved by conducting a training blitz once a year or by conducting monthly safety meetings, each on different topics during the year.  Once we move away from safety training and education, we must depend upon devices (things made by man).

Devices can be divided into four categories:

    installed safety devices,

    personal protective equipment devices,

    job specific safety devices,

    and emergency safety devices.

If we had to identify one emergency safety device with the potential to "save more lives" than any other device that the public has access to, without a doubt, I would identify the automated external defibrillators (AED).   The AED is the latest technology in lifesaving and emergency first aid.

It is a requirement of OSHA that employees be given a safe and healthy workplace that is reasonably free of occupational hazards. However, it is unrealistic to expect accidents not to happen. Therefore, employers are required to provide medical and first aid personnel and supplies commensurate with the hazards of the workplace.

The details of a workplace medical and first aid program are dependent on the circumstances of each workplace and employer.