Does OSHA require AEDs in the workplace? Understanding federal regulations and best practices for workplace automated external defibrillators.

The Short Answer

OSHA does not explicitly require AEDs in most workplaces. However, OSHA's General Duty Clause requires employers to provide a workplace "free from recognized hazards" that could cause death or serious physical harm. For many employers, this effectively means having an AED program.

When AEDs Are Strongly Recommended

OSHA recommends AEDs for workplaces with these characteristics:

• More than 50 employees
• Remote locations more than 3-4 minutes from emergency services
• High-risk work environments (physical labor, high stress)
• Employees with known heart conditions
• Public-facing facilities with high foot traffic

OSHA Guidelines for Workplace AED Programs

If you implement an AED program, OSHA recommends:

1. AED Placement

• Accessible within 3-4 minutes of any location
• Clearly marked with signage
• Stored in unlocked, visible locations
• Protected from tampering but easily accessed

2. Training Requirements

• Designate and train volunteer responders
• Provide CPR/AED training to responders
• Conduct annual refresher training
• Train enough people to ensure coverage on all shifts

3. Emergency Action Plan

• Document AED locations
• Establish response procedures
• Integrate with 911 activation
• Define roles and responsibilities
• Review and update annually

4. Maintenance and Inspection

• Check AED status indicators daily or weekly
• Track battery and pad expiration dates
• Keep maintenance logs
• Replace consumables before expiration

State-Specific Requirements

While OSHA doesn't mandate AEDs federally, many states have their own requirements. Some states require AEDs in:

• Fitness facilities and gyms
• Schools and universities
• Government buildings
• Health clubs and recreation centers
• Certain large employers

Check Your State's AED Laws

Liability Protection

All 50 states have Good Samaritan laws protecting those who use AEDs in good faith during emergencies. Having an AED program can actually reduce liability by demonstrating your commitment to employee safety.

Building Your Workplace AED Program

Step 1: Conduct a Risk Assessment

Evaluate your workplace for cardiac arrest risk factors. Consider employee demographics, physical demands of work, and proximity to emergency services.

Step 2: Determine AED Quantity and Placement

Map your facility and identify optimal AED locations based on the 3-4 minute accessibility rule.

Step 3: Select Appropriate AED Models

Choose AEDs that match your environment (indoor/outdoor, temperature range, user experience level).

Read Our AED Buying Guide

Step 4: Train Your Team

Designate volunteer responders and provide comprehensive CPR/AED training.

Step 5: Implement and Maintain

Install AEDs, post signage, establish maintenance procedures, and conduct drills.

Cost Considerations

Workplace AED programs are more affordable than you might think:

• AED units: $1,200 - $2,500 per unit
• Training: $50-150 per person
• Annual maintenance: $50-200 per unit
• Cabinets and signage: $100-400

Compare this to the potential cost of a workplace cardiac arrest without an AED program—both in human life and potential liability.

Get Expert Help

Not sure where to start with your workplace AED program? Our team can help you assess your needs, select equipment, and implement a comprehensive program that meets OSHA guidelines.

Contact Us for Workplace AED Solutions

Conclusion

While OSHA doesn't explicitly require AEDs in most workplaces, implementing an AED program is a smart business decision that protects your employees, demonstrates duty of care, and may be required by your state or local jurisdiction.

Remember: When sudden cardiac arrest occurs, every minute without defibrillation reduces survival chances by 10%. Having an AED on-site can mean the difference between life and death.