State transportation leaders announced the availability of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) on the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) commuter rail fleet.

The installation of 84 AEDs, one per train, represents a significant investment of resources into this vital safety system by the MBTA and Massachusetts Bay Commuter Railroad (MBCR). To date, more than thirty AEDs have been installed on trains to protect passenger safety. The entire fleet will be equipped by the end of spring.

In addition to installing AEDs throughout the system, MBCR will provide their conductors and assistant conductors with four hours of training in CPR and AED use on adults and children.

“MBCR has worked closely with the MBTA to provide this important life safety equipment, which will improve safety for commuter rail customers,” said Richard A. Davey, MBCR’s general manager. “AEDs are a proven technology that can save somebody’s life in the event of sudden cardiac arrest.”