AED Requirements in Arkansas
Arkansas requires every health spa, a term that covers gyms, fitness centers and similar facilities, to have at least one AED on the premises (Act 1199 of 2005, as amended by Act 1606 of 2007). State Board of Education rules must require an AED on each school campus and at each school-sponsored sporting event for grades 7-12 (Act 737 of 2023), and each school must have a cardiac emergency response plan with an AED on site (Act 352 of 2025).
Arkansas AED Law Overview
Arkansas requires every health spa, a term that covers gyms, fitness centers and similar facilities, to have at least one AED on the premises (Act 1199 of 2005, as amended by Act 1606 of 2007). State Board of Education rules must require an AED on each school campus and at each school-sponsored sporting event for grades 7-12 (Act 737 of 2023), and each school must have a cardiac emergency response plan with an AED on site (Act 352 of 2025).
Every year, over 350,000 cardiac arrests occur outside of hospitals in the United States. For every minute that passes without defibrillation, the chance of survival drops by 7-10%. Having an AED on-site and trained staff ready to use it can mean the difference between life and death.
Whether Arkansas mandates AED placement for your organization or not, the investment in an AED program protects your employees, customers, and community — and can significantly reduce liability exposure.
Specific Requirements
- Health spas: at least one AED on the premises, with an employee trained in CPR and AED use on duty during staffed hours (Act 1199 of 2005; Act 1606 of 2007)
- School campuses: State Board of Education rules must require an AED on each campus, trained school personnel and an AED at each school-sponsored sporting event for grades 7-12 (Act 737 of 2023, amending Ark. Code § 6-10-122)
- Schools: a cardiac emergency response plan beginning in the 2025-2026 school year, with an AED placed on site, marked with signs and kept in an unlocked location (Act 352 of 2025)
- Public universities and community colleges: rules must require AEDs in appropriate campus locations, trained personnel and an AED at each institution-sponsored sporting event (Act 737 of 2023)
Sources
- Arkansas Act 1199 of 2005 (health spas)
- Arkansas Act 1606 of 2007 (health spas)
- Arkansas Act 737 of 2023 (schools and colleges)
- Arkansas Act 352 of 2025 (school cardiac emergency response plans)
These summaries were last checked against the official sources above in October 2026. This page is general information, not legal advice. Other state or local rules may also apply; check the current law or ask an attorney about your organization.
Who Needs an AED in Arkansas?
Offices & Workplaces
Corporate offices, coworking spaces, and business parks
The American Heart Association reports that 10,000 cardiac arrests occur in the workplace each year. Having an AED can increase survival rates by up to 70%.
Schools & Universities
K-12 schools, colleges, and educational institutions
Student athletes and staff are at risk of sudden cardiac arrest. Many states now mandate AEDs in schools.
Gyms & Fitness Centers
Health clubs, yoga studios, CrossFit boxes, and recreation centers
Intense physical activity can trigger cardiac events. Most states require AEDs in fitness facilities.
Churches & Places of Worship
Churches, synagogues, mosques, and community halls
Large gatherings of all ages, often with elderly congregants, make AEDs essential for community safety.
Restaurants & Hotels
Restaurants, hotels, resorts, and hospitality venues
High foot traffic and diverse demographics make AEDs critical for guest safety and liability protection.
Construction & Industrial Sites
Construction sites, warehouses, manufacturing plants
Physical labor, heat stress, and remote locations make rapid cardiac response critical.
Sports Facilities
Stadiums, arenas, sports complexes, and athletic fields
Athletes of all ages face cardiac risks during high-intensity activity.
Medical & Dental Offices
Doctor offices, dental practices, outpatient clinics
Even in medical settings, an AED provides immediate response before advanced care arrives.
Arkansas AED Compliance Checklist
Recommended AEDs for Arkansas Compliance
Defibtech Lifeline
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View Details →Arkansas AED FAQs
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Protect Your Arkansas Business Today
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