Kentucky Workplace Safety & AED Compliance

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

Kentucky is a low‑mandate AED state. There is no statewide requirement for AEDs in schools, gyms, workplaces, or public venues. Instead, Kentucky relies on strong Good Samaritan protections, voluntary AED programs, and local district policies (especially in schools and athletics). General workplaces follow Federal OSHA, not a state plan.

AED Required?

No statewide mandate

Emergency Plan?

State OSHA Plan?

Federal OSHA (no separate state plan)

Good Samaritan?

Yes — KRS § 311.668

Regulated Industries

Last Updated

2014

*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

Schools:
- Even without a mandate, place AEDs near gyms, cafeterias, main corridors, and athletic fields.
- Implement a simple Cardiac Emergency Response Plan (CERP) with staff CPR/AED training.
General Workplaces:
- Adopt voluntary AED programs to reduce cardiac risk and align with OSHA best practices.
- Maintain AEDs per manufacturer guidelines and train key staff.
Public Venues:
- Consider AED placement due to high foot traffic and strong Good Samaritan protections.
All AED Owners:
- Notify local EMS of AED location (recommended).
- Maintain AEDs and document inspections.
- Train anticipated responders in CPR/AED.

Key Takeaways for Kentucky

Understanding Kentucky'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.

Kentucky has no AED mandates for schools, gyms, workplaces, or public venues.
Kentucky Revised Statutes § 311.668 provide broad immunity for AED users, owners, property owners, and trainers acting in good faith.
AED programs are voluntary, but once installed, organizations should follow national best practices for training, maintenance, and EMS coordination.
Many Kentucky school districts voluntarily adopt AEDs for athletics, but this is policy, not law.