AED Requirements in Delaware
Delaware law requires the Delaware Interscholastic Athletic Association board to adopt regulations requiring a clearly marked AED in an unlocked location at each school athletic venue and event during school-sponsored athletic events and team practices, along with athletic emergency action plans (14 Del. C. § 303). Any entity that receives an AED must train expected users, maintain and test the device and report each use (16 Del. C. § 3003C).
Delaware AED Law Overview
Delaware law requires the Delaware Interscholastic Athletic Association board to adopt regulations requiring a clearly marked AED in an unlocked location at each school athletic venue and event during school-sponsored athletic events and team practices, along with athletic emergency action plans (14 Del. C. § 303). Any entity that receives an AED must train expected users, maintain and test the device and report each use (16 Del. C. § 3003C).
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 Delaware 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
- Middle and high school athletics: regulations requiring a clearly marked, easily accessible AED in an unlocked location at each school athletic venue and event during school-sponsored athletic events and team practices (14 Del. C. § 303)
- Schools with athletic programs: a venue-specific emergency action plan, AEDs tested and maintained, and the Office of Emergency Medical Services told each AED's type and location (14 Del. C. § 303)
- Coaches: CPR, first aid and AED certification (14 Del. C. § 303)
- Entities that receive an AED: training approved by the State EMS Medical Director, maintenance and testing to the manufacturer's guidelines, and EMS notice after each use (16 Del. C. § 3003C)
- Law enforcement patrol vehicles: an AED in each vehicle, subject to appropriations (16 Del. C. § 9705)
Sources
- 14 Del. C. § 303 (Delaware Code Title 14)
- 85 Del. Laws, c. 108 (House Bill 71)
- 16 Del. C. §§ 3003C and 9705 (Delaware Code Title 16)
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 Delaware?
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.
Delaware AED Compliance Checklist
Recommended AEDs for Delaware Compliance
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View Details →Delaware AED FAQs
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