AED Requirements in Louisiana
Louisiana requires every physical fitness facility with more than 50 members to keep an AED on its premises (La. R.S. 40:1137.3). The same law requires each elementary, middle and high school and each postsecondary institution to have an AED and a cardiac emergency response plan; under Act 234 of 2023, these school and college rules take effect only when a law appropriating money to carry them out takes effect.
Louisiana AED Law Overview
Louisiana requires every physical fitness facility with more than 50 members to keep an AED on its premises (La. R.S. 40:1137.3). The same law requires each elementary, middle and high school and each postsecondary institution to have an AED and a cardiac emergency response plan; under Act 234 of 2023, these school and college rules take effect only when a law appropriating money to carry them out takes effect.
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 Louisiana 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, for profit or nonprofit, with more than 50 members: an AED on the premises (La. R.S. 40:1137.3)
- Elementary, middle and high schools: an AED in an easily accessible location, an AED and a trained AED user at each interscholastic athletic event the school sponsors, and a cardiac emergency response plan; subject to the Act 234 funding condition (La. R.S. 40:1137.3)
- Postsecondary institutions: an AED in the athletic department, an AED and a trained AED user at intercollegiate athletic events, and a cardiac emergency response plan; subject to the same funding condition (La. R.S. 40:1137.3)
- Anyone who possesses an AED: maintain and test it, involve a licensed physician or APRN, train expected users in CPR and AED use, and notify local EMS of its location and type (La. R.S. 40:1137.3)
Sources
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 Louisiana?
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.
Louisiana AED Compliance Checklist
Recommended AEDs for Louisiana Compliance
Defibtech Lifeline
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View Details →Louisiana AED FAQs
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