SRL’s Aberdeen depot has joined forces with a group of local companies and individuals to provide a defibrillator at Broomhill Road, Spurryhillock Industrial Estate in Stonehaven.

This brilliant initiative was inspired by a conversation between Ian Thompson of Kincardine Manufacturing Services Limited and local first responder Campbell McLuckie. Campbell had commented on the lack of local defibrillators in the area in light of several recent incidents - one local worker had suffered a heart attack, another a stroke.

According to the British Heart Foundation, less than 1 in 10 people survive a sudden cardiac arrest and only 40% of bystanders who witness a cardiac arrest would be confident performing CPR.[1]

What is a defibrillator?

A defibrillator is a device that gives a high energy electric shock to the heart of someone who is in cardiac arrest and can be instrumental in saving their life.

Simple and easy to use, anyone can help using a defibrillator. They are provided with clear instructions on how to attach the pads to the person and will only instruct the operator to deliver a shock if it’s needed. You can’t shock someone by accident!

Lasting legacy

Unfortunately, Campbell McLuckie passed away before the defibrillator was installed but the group of companies who contributed to it were unanimous in wanting to dedicate it to his memory. Campbell had been a first responder, a voluntary role, for 12 years.

His wife Eleanor described the dedication as an honour, saying:

“He would be thrilled to know that it was up and running and that lives may be saved as a result. Unfortunately Campbell’s life was too short but it is comforting to know that he made an impact and left a legacy and that makes me very proud.”

The defibrillator is now registered with The Circuit (The National Defibrillator Network) and connected to the Scottish Ambulance Service, providing peace of mind to the workers at the industrial estate and the wider community.

SRL would like to thank everyone who was involved in this initiative which we hope will help save lives in future.

[1] https://risk-assessment-products.co.uk/blog/how-many-lives-are-saved-by-defibrillators-in-the-uk/