Written Reply by Minister for Transport Khaw Boon Wan to Parliamentary Question on AED Kits on Trains and Buses

Mr Melvin Yong Yik Chye asked the Minister for Transport

a.     whether there are plans to equip all train stations and bus interchanges with AED kits that are easily accessible; and

b.     whether LTA will consider working with the public transport operators to equip all public buses, trains and taxis with AED kits for use during emergencies.

Reply by Minister for Transport Khaw Boon Wan:

1.     There is at least one Automated External Defibrillator (AED) at all our bus interchanges and MRT stations. These are situated near the Passenger Service Office as the staff there are trained to use them.

2.     We do not have AED kits on all public buses, trains and taxis. We would have to consider the practicality of equipping every bus, train and taxi with one. Instead, the personnel have been trained to respond to emergencies by seeking immediate medical help. For instance, bus captains would immediately request for an ambulance through their Operation Control Centre. When the train pulls into the station, the staff at the station, who would have access to the AED at the station, would attend to the passenger requiring medical assistance.