AED Requirements in Illinois
Illinois requires AEDs at physical fitness facilities (210 ILCS 74/15) and at every school attendance center during the school day and school-sponsored extracurricular activities on school grounds (105 ILCS 5/10-20.87). Schools must also have a cardiac emergency response plan (105 ILCS 128/60), and nursing homes must have an AED by January 1, 2030 (210 ILCS 45/2-213.5).
Illinois AED Law Overview
Illinois requires AEDs at physical fitness facilities (210 ILCS 74/15) and at every school attendance center during the school day and school-sponsored extracurricular activities on school grounds (105 ILCS 5/10-20.87). Schools must also have a cardiac emergency response plan (105 ILCS 128/60), and nursing homes must have an AED by January 1, 2030 (210 ILCS 45/2-213.5).
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 Illinois 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
- Physical fitness facilities (with the Act's exclusions, such as facilities serving fewer than 100 people): at least one AED and a trained AED user on staff during staffed hours (210 ILCS 74/15)
- School attendance centers: at least one AED present during the school day and school-sponsored extracurricular activities on school grounds (105 ILCS 5/10-20.87; Chicago: 105 ILCS 5/34-18.87)
- School districts and private schools: a cardiac emergency response plan that lists every AED (105 ILCS 128/60)
- Nursing homes: an AED and AED policies by January 1, 2030 (210 ILCS 45/2-213.5)
- Anyone who acquires an AED: maintain and test it, train anticipated rescuers and notify the local emergency dispatch center of its location and type (410 ILCS 4/20)
Sources
- 210 ILCS 74/15 (Physical Fitness Facility Medical Emergency Preparedness Act)
- 105 ILCS 5/10-20.87
- 105 ILCS 5/34-18.87
- 105 ILCS 128/60
- 210 ILCS 45/2-213.5
- 410 ILCS 4/20
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 Illinois?
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.
Illinois AED Compliance Checklist
Recommended AEDs for Illinois Compliance
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View Details →Illinois AED FAQs
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Protect Your Illinois Business Today
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