Workplace safety laws and AED regulations vary significantly across federal, state, and industry-specific regulators. Navigating which requirements apply to your facility is critical for maintaining compliance and ensuring the highest level of emergency preparedness. This resource hub is designed to help you identify the specific mandates for schools, churches, manufacturing plants, retail spaces, and corporate offices, providing a clear path to protecting your people and staying ahead of safety audits.
OSHA 1910.151: Medical Services & First Aid
Requires employers to ensure the ready availability of medical personnel for advice and consultation, and that adequately trained persons are available to render first aid when a hospital or infirmary is not in close proximity.
Who it applies to: All general industry employers under federal OSHA jurisdiction.
ANSI/ISEA Z308.1: Minimum Requirements for Workplace First Aid Kits
Sets the industry standard for the minimum content and performance requirements for first aid kits in the workplace, categorizing them into Class A (common workplace injuries) and Class B (high-risk environments).
Who it applies to: Manufacturing, construction, and office environments seeking OSHA compliance through industry standards.
AHA AED Placement Recommendations
Suggests that AEDs should be located such that a 'drop-to-shock' time of 3-5 minutes can be achieved. Placement should be highly visible, accessible, and near high-traffic areas or areas with higher risk of cardiac events.
Who it applies to: Corporate offices, large public venues, and any facility implementing a voluntary AED program.
Cardiac Arrest Survival Act (CASA) & Good Samaritan Protections
Provides federal liability protection for those who purchase or use AEDs in an emergency. These laws aim to encourage AED placement by reducing the fear of legal repercussions when acting in good faith.
Who it applies to: AED purchasers, facility managers, and lay-responders nationwide.
Federal Building AED Guidelines
HHS and GSA guidelines require federal agencies to implement public access defibrillation programs. This serves as a primary reference for best practices in large facility management.
Who it applies to: Federal agencies and contractors operating in federal buildings.
Department of Transportation (DOT) Requirements
Mandates specific first aid and emergency response capabilities for interstate transportation providers, ensuring safety protocols are maintained across varying state lines during transit.
Who it applies to: Transportation & Logistics providers, airlines, and interstate bus lines.
Federal School Safety Recommendations
Encourages schools to maintain an Emergency Response Plan that includes AED placement, bleeding control kits, and staff training. Federal funding often hinges on these preparedness standards.
Who it applies to: Public and private K-12 schools, universities, and federal educational institutions.
State-by-State AED & Workplace Safety Requirements
Select a state to view local AED placement rules, EMS registration, and training mandates:
Placement Requirements
Mandated locations including schools, health clubs, and large state-owned buildings based on occupancy.
Samaritan Protections
Liability immunity for non-medical responders who use an AED in good faith during a cardiac emergency.
EMS Registration
Required notification to local EMS agencies within 30 days of installation to support emergency dispatch.
Training Mandates
Facility staff must maintain current CPR/AED certification from approved providers (AHA/ARC).
Inspection frequency
Monthly functional checks and status indicator verification to maintain Good Samaritan immunity eligibility.
Program Oversight
State requirements for physician medical direction and post-event data reporting to local authorities.
Industry-Specific Safety Requirements
Different environments face unique emergencies. Select your industry to find specific AED placement recommendations and first aid requirements tailored to your sector.
Monthly AED Inspection Checklist
A step-by-step guide to ensure your AED is functional and rescue-ready every month.
Emergency Response Plan
A comprehensive template to document your facility's response procedures.
Compliance Checklists & Downloads
Downloadable resources and action lists to help businesses verify their current compliance status and maintain safety readiness.
First Aid Cabinet Restock Checklist
Ensure your workplace first aid supplies meet OSHA requirements and employee needs.
Bleeding Control Checklist
Verify that your trauma supplies are complete and accessible for critical incidents.
AED Pad & Battery Tracker
Keep track of critical expiration dates for all life-saving equipment components.
AED Placement Guide
Actionable tips for optimal AED placement based on response time goals.
Legal & Regulatory FAQs
Do AED laws differ by state?
Yes, significantly. While federal laws provide a baseline, each state sets its own requirements for AED placement, EMS registration, physician oversight, and Good Samaritan protections. Our state-specific guides can help you stay current with local mandates.
Are AEDs required in schools?
Many states now mandate AEDs in K-12 public schools and at athletic events. Requirements vary based on school type and funding, so checking your state’s specific education and safety codes is essential for compliance.
What inspections are required for AEDs?
Standard industry practice and most state laws require regular monthly inspections to verify the status indicator, ensure pads and batteries are not expired, and confirm the device is accessible and functioning correctly.
What does OSHA require for first aid?
OSHA Standard 1910.151 requires that employers ensure medical personnel are readily available or that persons are trained to render first aid. It also mandates adequate first aid supplies based on workplace hazards, often referring to ANSI/ISEA Z308.1 standards.
How often should first aid cabinets be restocked?
Cabinets should be restocked immediately after significant use and inspected at least monthly to ensure essential items are present, within expiration dates, and the cabinet meets current ANSI/ISEA standards for your industry.
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