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Pennsylvania

Various facilities in Pennsylvania are required to have AEDs on site in case of an emergency, and gracious Good Samaritan protections are extended to those who use AEDs. 

Below is a full list of AED requirements in Pennsylvania. Check out who is required to have an AED in Pennsylvania and see who stands to benefit from Good Samaritan laws.

Summary of Requirements

Physician
When a person purchases an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) they must first receive physician approval in order to obtain it. It’s recommended that they receive approval from a physician medical director.
CPR/AED Training
If a user expects to be the direct user of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED), they need to have completed training in the use of an AED that is provided by the American National Red Cross, the American Heart Association, or an equivalent training program that is approved by the department of health in consultation with a technical committee of the Pennsylvania Emergency Health Services Council.
EMS Notification
It is recommended by the Pennsylvania State EMS office that the regional EMS council, local EMS providers, and/or 911 centers should be notified when an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is or has been used.
Maintenance Program
When an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is purchased, it must always be maintained and tested according to the manufacturer’s operating instructions.
Notification of Use
When a person has used an Automated External Defibrillator (AED), they must immediately contact emergency medical services. Any information that is vital to the help of the patient must be made available to emergency medical services personnel and/or other healthcare providers.

Good Samaritan Protection

Rescuer
Purchaser
Property owner
Physician
Trainer

42 PA.C.S.A. § 8331.2

Provides Good Samaritan protection for use of an AED and establishes guidelines for AED programs.

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Laws / Legislation

24 P.S. § 14-1423

Sets guidelines for AED programs in schools. Including the fund receiving policies for schools with the intent on acquiring and maintaining an AED.

73 P.S. § 2174

Sets guidelines for AED programs in health clubs.

SB 351

Extends Good Samaritan law and requires entities acquiring AEDs to properly maintain them.

HB 1525

Requires that health clubs with services offered during nonstaffed hours be equipped with an AED, panic button, emergency phone, and personal security device.

55 PA. Code § 2800.96

Outlines AED requirements for assisted living facilities.

HB 2778

Requires hotels to provide and maintain AEDs.

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