The standards applicable to rescue equipment
Choosing rescue equipment relies on compliance with several European and international standards, guaranteeing product safety and performance. These standards structure the selection according to use and the professional environment:
- EN 1865: covers stretchers and medical transport equipment, ensuring their reliability and adaptability.
- EN ISO 13485: sets out the requirements for medical devices, including manufacturing and traceability.
- EN 1789: governs ambulances and their provision of rescue equipment.
- EN ISO 7010: standardises safety signage for first-aid and evacuation points.
Meeting these standards helps optimise the effectiveness of interventions and the protection of teams.
The main types of rescue equipment and their uses
The rescue equipment category includes different sub-types according to the professional environment:
- Folding stretchers for heavy handling or emergency transport, suited to industrial sites and construction sites.
- Automated defibrillators for public spaces, workshops or logistics areas, enabling a rapid response in the event of cardiac arrest.
- Specific first aid kits for chemicals, food processing or transport, to address the hazards specific to every sector.
- Survival blankets used during accidents or evacuations, to protect victims against cold or thermal shock.
To complete your equipment, see our selection of first aid products for professionals as well as our page dedicated to lockout/tagout equipment for intervention safety.
Maintenance advice for rescue equipment
Maintaining rescue equipment in a professional setting is essential to guarantee its effectiveness and compliance. It is recommended to:
- Regularly clean each device according to the manufacturer's instructions, favouring suitable products.
- Store equipment in dry, easily accessible places, away from dust or moisture.
- Check the expiry date of consumables (dressings, gels, defibrillator electrodes) and replace them if necessary.
- Visually inspect equipment to detect any sign of wear, corrosion or deterioration.
- Immediately replace any equipment showing a defect or after intensive use.
Regular maintenance helps preserve the reliability of rescue equipment and ensure team safety in all circumstances.
Technical specifics and selection criteria for rescue equipment
To select suitable rescue equipment or professional first aid equipment, several essential criteria should be taken into account:
- The lifespan of devices, particularly for defibrillators and single-use consumables.
- Compatibility with other PPE to guarantee a safe, effective response, even in demanding environments.
- Environmental constraints: exposure to moisture, extreme temperatures or dust.
- Suitability for the professional activity (industry, transport, public sector, construction, food processing).
- Ease of implementation and speed of access during an emergency.
Taking these specifics into account helps ensure the performance of rescue equipment and optimal protection for staff on site.