The business also provided CPR and defibrillator training to ensure local people are equipped to use the unit when emergency medical assistance is required.  

Defibrillators are used to treat cardiac arrest by providing a high energy electric shock to the heart. The chances of surviving cardiac arrest increase to 50-70% if a defibrillator is deployed within the first three to five minutes compared with less than 10% without a defibrillator.  

There have been increasing calls for defibrillators to be located in all schools. Across the UK Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) kills more than 60,000 people annually including 270 children in schools.  

Union Technical supplied the Duror Primary School defibrillator as part of a wider community benefits initiative. Last year the business was appointed to deliver Highland Council’s Energy Efficient Scotland: Area Based Scheme (EES:ABS) which offers eligible Highland residents Scottish Government grant funding for energy efficiency measures.

Under the EES:ABS contract, the business is currently undertaking a significant retrofit project in Caol, where its team is installing a range of energy efficiency measures in Swedish timber homes on behalf of Highland Council utilising EES:ABS and private sector funding.

The works will make homes warmer, cheaper to heat and more environmentally friendly, contributing to the local authority’s net zero ambitions. Some properties are expected to see substantial increases in their Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating, potentially increasing ratings from E to B.

Suzanne Coyle, director of operations at Union Technical, said: “It is extremely rewarding to secure a new defibrillator for the Appin community.

“As a business, we take great pride in giving back to the communities where we operate by employing local suppliers and making meaningful contributions through donations and voluntary work. Our essential energy services have a transformative effect on housing, making properties happier and healthier, and we are committed to having the same positive impact on people’s lives as we have on their homes.”

Union Technical is implementing a wide-ranging community benefits programme across the Highlands and is currently planning its future contributions in partnership with Highland Council.

The business previously distributed 50 £40 vouchers to families in need to purchase winter coats and other warm clothing and footwear for children, as well as more than 100 warm home packs incorporating blankets, thermal socks, hats, gloves, scarfs, mugs, and room thermometers.