Sudden cardiac arrest is a leading cause of death in the UK and Palace Chemicals managing director  Charlie Clapham says its has affected the family and friends of a number of his team

South Liverpool chemical firm Palace Chemicals is introducing staff training and equipment that could one day save someone’s life.

Sudden cardiac arrest is a leading cause of death in the UK and Palace managing director  Charlie Clapham says its has affected the family and friends of a number of his team.

The Speke business employs 80 people so Mr Clapham has invested in a defibrillator to ensure it is prepared for a such an eventuality. He is also sending several members of staff on first aid training in 2018, including how to use the equipment.

He said: “We felt that it was vitally important to get a defibrillator on site at our offices in Speke. A number of our staff have friends and family members who have suffered a cardiac arrest, so this issue is close to our hearts.

The very best chance of survival for a person suffering a cardiac arrest is immediate access to a defibrillator, and studies have shown that the use of a defibrillator can increase survival rates by as much as 75%.

Palace Chemicals is now encouraging other businesses to do the same and purchase these lifesaving pieces of equipment to protect their workers.

Sales director Simon Clough added: “Palace Chemicals takes the well-being of its employees very seriously.”