The Auto-Cycle Union’s ongoing efforts to enhance event safety have received a boost with the governing body of motorcycle sport partly subsidising the purchase of 50 automated external defibrillators (AEDs) that will be distributed to event organisers across the UK.
The new and potentially life-saving devices – supplied through a partnership with WEL Medical – will bolster the medical service provision already in place at ACU-permitted events. Each AED is weatherproof, easy to use and suitable for adult and youth patients. Having defibrillators on-site will provide extra reassurance in the event of a competitor or spectator medical emergency.
ACU Secretary General, Matthew Edwards-Wear, said: “If someone suffers a cardiac event, having the right equipment to hand can make a critical difference. Defibrillators are designed to be simple to operate and can save lives when used quickly.
“We’re proud to support this initiative and grateful to WEL Medical for their involvement in helping us offer this equipment to event organisers.”
The ACU has a longstanding focus on maintaining high standards in medical planning and safety, and AEDs are increasingly seen as best-practice provision across a wide range of public venues and sporting environments. By making these devices more accessible, the ACU is giving clubs and organisers another useful tool in their safety planning armoury.
WEL Medical – a leading UK supplier of emergency medical equipment – has provided the devices and worked closely with the ACU to ensure organisers benefit from proven, high-quality units that are built to perform in real-world conditions.
In addition to the event-based rollout of these devices, the ACU has installed an AED at its headquarters in Rugby, adding peace of mind for visitors and staff.
This initiative is one of many ways the ACU continues to support the motorcycle sport community – not just through event permitting and governance, but by providing practical support that helps organisers deliver well-run, inclusive events.
Matthew Edwards-Wear added: “This defibrillator initiative reflects a shared commitment across the sport to stay up to date with equipment and best practice, while also offering an extra layer of reassurance to riders, volunteers and spectators.”