Portable toilet hire company Site Equip has installed a publicly accessible defibrillator at its Site Build workshop in Lasham.

The defibrillator is available around the clock to support staff and the surrounding community in emergency situations.

It is on the front wall of the workshop, facing a road and adjacent to a busy garden centre, ensuring easy access in the event of a cardiac arrest, when every second counts.

Each year in the UK approximately 30,000 people suffer a cardiac arrest outside of hospital. The chances of survival significantly increase when a defibrillator is used within the first few minutes.

Site Equip director Adam Lockyer said: "We hope it’s never needed, but we’re proud to make this essential equipment available to help protect lives in our community.

“Being based in a rural location, we understand the importance of fast action before emergency services arrive."

Without immediate treatment, fewer than one in ten people survive a cardiac arrest. With cardiopulmonary resuscitation and defibrillation within three to five minutes, survival rates can rise to 70 per cent. For every minute without defibrillation, survival chances drop by ten per cent.

The defibrillator is housed in a bright yellow cabinet on the building’s front wall, clearly signposted and visible from the road. Visitors should avoid parking in front of it to ensure quick and unobstructed access.

To use it in an emergency, call 999. The operator will give guidance and provide the cabinet access code. Then follow the clear spoken instructions provided by the defibrillator. It is fully automatic and safe, only delivering a shock if necessary.

A spokesperson added: “Site Equip is committed to the health and safety of its employees, customers and the local area, and this defibrillator is just one more way the business is contributing to community well-being.”