Tennessee Workplace Safety & AED Compliance

Your quick guide to AED, workplace safety, and emergency preparedness laws in Tennessee.

ED programs must include maintenance, CPR/AED training, medical oversight, AED placement reporting, EMS activation, post‑event reporting, and written AED program documentation. Good Samaritan protections apply to AED owners, users, and CPR/AED trainers, but AED program physicians are not included, and immunity is not dependent on compliance with AED program requirements. Tennessee requires AEDs in all public high schools, while private schools and lower‑grade public schools are encouraged but not required to have AEDs.

AED Required?

Industry-Specific

Emergency Plan?

Yes

State OSHA Plan?

Federal OSHA (no separate state plan)

Good Samaritan?

Yes (with conditions)

Regulated Industries

Last Updated

2021

*This summary is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. State laws change regularly, and requirements may vary by industry or circumstance. Always consult official state statutes or a qualified attorney before making compliance decisions.This summary is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. State laws change regularly, and requirements may vary by industry or circumstance. Always consult official state statutes or a qualified attorney before making compliance decisions.

Recommendations

Public High Schools:
- Place AEDs in central, accessible locations.
- Train all expected responders and ensure CPR/AED instruction for students.
- Maintain AEDs per manufacturer guidelines and keep written records.
- Adopt a cardiac emergency response plan consistent with AHA guidelines.
AED Acquirers:
- Establish a written AED program with placement, authorized users, EMS coordination, maintenance records, and post‑use reporting.
- Notify EMS of AED location.
- Ensure medical oversight from an in‑state licensed physician.
Dental Offices:
- Maintain AEDs on-site when using conscious sedation, deep sedation, or general anesthesia.
- Train staff for defensible operations.

Key Takeaways for Tennessee

Understanding Tennessee's specific safety mandates is the first step toward total workplace readiness. Here is a high-level summary of the critical requirements for employers in the state.

Tennessee requires AED programs to include maintenance, training, medical oversight, EMS activation, AED placement reporting, post‑event reporting, and written AED program documentation.
Good Samaritan protections apply to AED owners, users, and CPR/AED trainers, but not AED program physicians.
AEDs are required in public high schools, and CPR/AED training is encouraged in junior and senior high schools.

Industry-Specific Requirements in Tennessee

Explore the specific safety and AED mandates tailored to Tennessee's diverse industries, ensuring local compliance and enhanced emergency preparedness.