AED Signage Requirements: Complete Guide to Marking Your AED
Expert guidance from firefighter/paramedics
Learn more about our complete AED selection or read our AED buying guide.Proper AED signage ensures your device can be found quickly during an emergency. Here's what you need to know about marking your AED location.
Why AED Signage Matters
- Emergencies require split-second decisions
- Visible signage reduces response time by 30-50%
- Many states require AED signage by law
- Universal symbols overcome language barriers
Required vs Recommended Signage
State Requirements Vary:
Check your state's specific requirements, but most require:
- Signage visible from 50-100 feet
- Universal AED symbol (heart with lightning bolt)
- Indoor signage where AED is located
- Directional signs leading to AED
Types of AED Signs
1. Wall-Mounted Signs
At AED Location:
- Size: 6" x 6" minimum, 12" x 12" recommended
- Must include universal AED symbol
- Should be visible from main walkways
- Mounted at eye level (5-6 feet)
2. Directional Arrow Signs
In Hallways/Common Areas:
- Point toward AED location
- Include distance ("AED 50 feet →")
- Place at decision points (intersections, stairways)
3. Ceiling-Mounted Signs
For Large Open Spaces:
- Visible from multiple angles
- Two-sided for visibility
- Often used in warehouses, gyms, airports
4. Floor Decals
Additional Visibility:
- Supplement wall signs
- Guide people to exact location
- Useful in crowded areas
Signage Best Practices
Colors & Symbols
- Green & white: International standard (ISO)
- Heart + lightning bolt: Universal AED symbol
- High contrast: Ensures visibility
- Reflective: Visible in low light
Placement Strategy
- At AED location (primary sign)
- Building entrances (directory signs)
- Hallway intersections (directional signs)
- Stairwells on each floor
- Near elevators
Text Considerations
- Use large, bold fonts
- Simple language: "AED" or "Automated External Defibrillator"
- Include cabinet alarm information if applicable
- Consider multilingual signs for diverse populations
Special Environment Signs
Outdoor Locations
- Weather-resistant materials
- UV-protected to prevent fading
- Larger sizes for visibility from distance
Low-Light Areas
- Photoluminescent (glow-in-dark) signs
- Backlit signage options
- Reflective materials
Compliance Checklist
- ✅ Universal AED symbol present
- ✅ Signs visible from 50+ feet
- ✅ Directional signs at key locations
- ✅ Signs at AED location itself
- ✅ High contrast colors used
- ✅ Mounted at appropriate height
- ✅ Multiple signs for large facilities
Shop AED Signage
We offer complete AED signage packages including wall signs, directional arrows, and floor decals.