Illinois Workplace Safety & AED Compliance

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

Illinois has some of the strongest AED mandates in the U.S., especially for schools, fitness facilities, physical fitness centers, dental offices using sedation, and public buildings. The state also has detailed AED program requirements and broad Good Samaritan protections. General workplaces fall under Federal OSHA, but many industries in Illinois have AED obligations written directly into state statute.

AED Required?

Yes, Industry Specific

Emergency Plan?

Yes

State OSHA Plan?

Federal OSHA (no separate state plan)

Good Samaritan?

Yes — 745 ILCS 49/10 & 49/12

Regulated Industries

Last Updated

January 2024

*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.

Schools:
- Implement a full Cardiac Emergency Response Plan (CERP) with annual drills and staff CPR/AED certification.
- Place AEDs near gyms, cafeterias, main corridors, and athletic fields.
Fitness Facilities:
- Maintain AEDs with strict manufacturer-aligned schedules and ensure staff certification.
- Integrate AEDs into emergency response protocols.
Dental Sedation Offices:
- Ensure AEDs are present, maintained, and supported by staff CPR/AED training.
General Workplaces:
- Adopt voluntary AED programs with CPR/AED training and written emergency plans to align with Illinois’s strong AED readiness culture.

Key Takeaways for Illinois

Understanding Illinois'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.

Illinois requires AEDs in:
- Physical fitness facilities (Health Clubs)
- Schools (K–12 and higher education athletic programs)
- Dental offices using sedation
- Certain public buildings
AED programs must include:
- CPR/AED training
- EMS notification
- Maintenance/testing
- Written emergency procedures
- Post‑use reporting
Good Samaritan protections cover AED users, owners, trainers, and medical directors.

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Industry-Specific Requirements in Illinois

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