AEDs: Ready or Not?

Automatic External Defibrillators (AEDs) save lives—but only if they are ready to work when needed. For schools, churches, nursing facilities, and other institutions within the Archdiocese of Boston, AED maintenance is both a life-safety responsibility and a risk management obligation.

Massachusetts law does not require scheduled third-party servicing of AEDs. Instead, the law requires that any organization that owns an AED:

  • Maintains and tests the AED according to the manufacturer’s guidelines
  • Allows the AED to be used in an emergency
  • Documents reasonable maintenance and oversight

Institutions that place AEDs in public-access settings are also expected to notify local police and EMS of AED locations and to report AED use after an emergency.

In practice, AED maintenance can include the following:

  • Assigning responsibility: Designate an AED Coordinator (staff member, facilities lead, or safety committee member). Clear ownership prevents missed inspections or expired supplies.
  • Conducting routine visual inspections: follow the specific instructions of your devices’ manufacturer. Frequency of inspection will vary. Routine inspections may include confirming that:
    • The status indicator shows the AED is ready
    • Pads are sealed and not expired
    • Battery shows sufficient charge
    • Cabinet, device, and accessories are intact
    • Pediatric pads are present if your population includes children
  • Batteries and pads: Expired components are one of the most common—and preventable—AED failures. Follow manufacturer requirements for your particular device.
  • Maintaining accurate documentation: although not explicitly required, keeping a log per each device that records inspection dates, pad and battery expiration dates, and any post-use actions supports Good Samaritan protections. 

In Massachusetts, AED compliance is about readiness, not complexity. Assign responsibility, perform routine checks, replace consumables on time, and keep records. These simple steps protect lives—and your organization.

Sources

Massachussetts general law on AEDs: https://malegislature.gov/Laws/GeneralLaws/PartI/TitleXVI/Chapter112/Section12V%201~2

Summary of all laws pertaining to different entities regarding AEDs: https://www.aed.com/massachusetts-aed-statutes-regulations

 

View All Knowledgebase