Defibrillators for the Maritime Sector

In the maritime sector, where quick access to help can save lives, a defibrillator is indispensable. Whether for marine, offshore or recreational, a defibrillator provides extra security in emergency situations. The devices on this page are ideal for ships and ideally suited for inland and maritime navigation.

The unique conditions on a ship have been taken into account during the selection of these defibrillators, including water resistance, multilingual support, user-friendliness and easy maintenance. In addition, these defibrillators include all specifications to withstand the challenging conditions at sea, such as moisture and vibration.

Would you like to request a quote for a maritime defibrillator? Fill in the form at the bottom of the page and receive a quick response. 

Why a defibrillator on board is indispensable

At sea, it can take hours for medical help to arrive. In the case of cardiac arrest, every second counts: without rapid resuscitation and defibrillation, the chance of survival decreases by 10% per minute. It is therefore crucial that crew members can act immediately. A defibrillator analyses the heart rhythm and, if necessary, administers an electric shock to restart the heart. This buys precious time until professional medical help is available.

Recommended defibrillators

Discover our extensive range of defibrillators, perfectly tailored to the maritime sector. The models below are available as semi-automatic or fully automatic versions. They have a high IP rating and are available in English and several other languages. At the bottom of this page, you can request a quote for a maritime defibrillator directly.

What does a maritime defibrillator need to meet?

Not every AED is suitable for the hash conditions at sea. A maritime defibrillator must meet certain requirements, such as:

• High water and dust resistance: A high IP rating (preferably IP55 or higher) ensures protection against moisture and dust.
• Robustness: Due to exposure to harsh weather conditions and ship movements, the defibrillator must be able to withstand shock and vibration.
• Simple operation and clear instructions: In emergency situations, the AED should be intuitive to use, even by those without medical experience. An AED with both spoken and visual instructions in multiple languages is ideal for international crews.

These specifications make the following defibrillators ideally suited for use on a ship:

Storage and accessories for marine defibrillators

To keep your AED in good condition, it is important to store it in a dry and well-ventilated place, preferably in a secure cabinet or suitable case. Defibrillators function best within a specific temperature range. Extreme cold or heat can affect battery performance and damage the electrodes. Therefore, store the defibrillator in an easily accessible but temperature-controlled location on board. 

For stationary installations on land, outdoor cabinets with heating and ventilation help regulate temperature fluctuations. On ships, this is more challenging, so it is advisable to store the defibrillator away from direct sunlight and areas prone to frost, for example, in a controlled indoor space that remains accessible in emergencies.

Clear signage is also essential, ensuring the crew can quickly locate the defibrillator on board.

Maintenance for defibrillators on ships

Besides buying a suitable defibrillator device and defibrillator accessories, regular maintenance is essential. To keep your defibrillator in good condition, it is important to:

• Regularly check the status indicator of the AED.
• Have spare batteries and electrodes on board.
• Have an annual inspection to ensure reliability, for example with Medisol's One-Time Maintenance.

Also download our (free) Maritime defibrillator checklist as a handy tool to check weekly or monthly whether your AED is still in good condition. 

Defibrillator quote request

A defibrillator on board a ship is essential. It can save lives in situations where medical help is not readily available. Invest in a reliable AED and make your ship safer for everyone on board.

Request a no-obligation quote today and receive expert advice tailored to your needs.

Frequently asked questions

Which type of AED is best for Maritime environments?

AEDs for use offshore or at sea should have a high IP (Ingress Protection) rating or be kept in a suitable safety case to resist water and dust. Recommended values are IP55 or higher.

Can an AED be used in wet conditions?

Yes, many AEDs are designed for use in wet environments. However, if you are able, ensure that the victim and the immediate surroundings are as dry as possible before using the device.

How do I maintain a maritime AED?

Regular maintenance includes checking the battery and electrodes, performing self-tests and storing the AED in a dry, safe and easily accessible place. Download our free Maritime AED checklist as a handy tool to regularly check that your AED is still in good working condition.

Are AEDs resistant to saltwater environments?

Many AEDs suitable for maritime use, are manufactured from robust materials that can resist the corrosion that can occur from longtime exposure to saltwater. The use of a protective case is recommended to prolong the service life of your device.

What accessories do I need for an AED on board a ship or offshore?

A waterproof case or a good AED case and a towel are essential to be prepared for maritime emergencies. The purchase of an AED from Medisol includes a free rescue kit as standard. This kit includes items such as clothing scissors, a cloth and a breathing mask. Make sure you keep the rescue kit with the AED at all times. Keep an eye on the shelf life of the electrodes and battery of your AED and order new ones in time when needed. 

How do I ensure the AED is accessible to all staff or crew members?

Place the AED in a clearly marked, central location and make sure all staff or crew members are trained in its use. To indicate where the AED is on board, you can use stickers and signs with the International AED icon.

Can AEDs be used on children or babies during maritime emergencies?

Yes, but special paediatric electrodes or a device with a paediatric mode may be needed. Check if your AED model supports this functionality. Paediatric electrodes are also for use on smaller adults weighing less than 25 kg.

How often should I train staff or crew members to use an AED?

Ideally, training should be conducted annually to ensure that everyone is familiar with how to use the AED.

What happens when an AED is exposed to extreme temperatures?

AEDs have specific temperature ranges for use and storage. Exposure to extreme heat or cold can damage the device. Check the manual for guidelines, especially in maritime environments where conditions can vary greatly.