MDA Defibrillators Now Available on Israel Railways Trains
Not waiting for legislative mandate: Israel Railways and Magen David Adom (MDA) have begun installing defibrillators on passenger trains while the relevant legislation is still being processed
Life-saving devices are already installed across all 67 active passenger stations, and thanks to specialized training of station staff, dozens of passengers experiencing cardiac events while waiting at stations have had their lives saved in recent years.
In recent months, anticipating proposed legislation, Israel Railways began installing automated external defibrillators (AEDs) on passenger trains. In partnership with Magen David Adom, approximately 150 defibrillators will be installed on trains in the coming weeks, enabling life-saving treatment in case of cardiac events during train journeys.
Israel Railways notes that each of its 67 stations nationwide is already equipped with defibrillators. The installation of these devices at stations has repeatedly proven effective, saving dozens of passengers who experienced cardiac events while waiting at stations. Station personnel—including managers, shift supervisors, attendants, security staff, and train inspectors—receive specialized training in using these life-saving devices.
The collaboration between Israel Railways and Magen David Adom continues a long-standing partnership that has included emergency drills for evacuating injured passengers from trains, installation of resuscitation equipment at stations, training for railway staff, blood donation campaigns, and numerous additional activities with a singular purpose: saving human lives.
Israel Railways reminds passengers that in life-threatening situations, they should contact staff members on the train or at stations, who are responsible for passenger safety and have received appropriate training. In addition to defibrillators, every train is equipped with a first aid kit that includes EpiPen auto-injectors for life-threatening allergic reactions.
Eli Bin, MDA Director-General:
"In cases of cardiac arrest, every second counts, and the availability of defibrillators is one of the most critical factors affecting successful resuscitation. Installing approximately 150 defibrillators on passenger trains that transport over a quarter million people daily represents a significant advancement that will help save lives in the event of cardiac arrest on a moving train. I commend this collaboration with Israel Railways and look forward to many more years of joint initiatives."
Israel Railways Board Chairman, Adv. Moshe Shimoni:
"Whoever saves one life, it is as if they have saved an entire world. As a public company transporting approximately 270,000 passengers daily, I am proud to say that our passengers' security and safety are our highest priorities. Alongside training our service providers to deliver life-saving assistance when needed, the installation of defibrillators on passenger trains is a commendable step that provides us with additional tools to ensure our passengers reach their destinations safely."
Israel Railways CEO, Shiko Zana:
"Saving lives is our paramount value. Thanks to excellent cooperation between MDA and Israel Railways, defibrillators will be installed on all trains, enabling us to provide life-saving treatment during emergency situations that occur during journeys. Many thanks to all involved in this initiative, and wishes for robust health to all the people of Israel and Israel Railways passengers."
