Massachusetts Workplace Safety & AED Compliance

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

Massachusetts is a high‑mandate AED state. AEDs are required in schools, assisted living facilities, health clubs, long‑term care facilities, and dental offices that administer anesthesia. The state also regulates AED programs through strict requirements for maintenance, training, medical direction, EMS notification, AED placement reporting, and post‑event reporting. Good Samaritan protections apply broadly to AED owners, users, and medical directors.

AED Required?

Yes, Industry Specific

Emergency Plan?

Yes, for schools

State OSHA Plan?

Federal OSHA (no separate state plan)

Good Samaritan?

Yes — G.L. c.112 §12V and §12V½

Regulated Industries

Last Updated

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.

Recommendations

Schools: Maintain a written emergency response plan; ensure AEDs and trained providers are available at athletic events.
Health Clubs: Keep AEDs accessible and ensure at least one trained AED provider is present during staffed hours.
Assisted Living & Long‑Term Care: Integrate AEDs into emergency protocols and maintain devices per manufacturer guidelines.
Dental Offices: Ensure AED availability whenever anesthesia is administered.
General Workplaces: Voluntary AED programs should follow Massachusetts AED program best practices for defensible operations.

Key Takeaways for Massachusetts

Understanding Massachusetts'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.

AEDs are required in schools, health clubs, assisted living facilities, long‑term care facilities, and dental offices administering anesthesia.
AED programs must include maintenance, training, medical direction, EMS notification, AED placement reporting, and post‑event reporting.
Good Samaritan protections apply to AED owners, users, and medical directors, but not trainers.
Immunity is not contingent on meeting administrative AED program requirements.

Industry-Specific Requirements in Louisiana

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