AED Requirements in Missouri
Starting with the 2026-2027 school year, each Missouri public school must develop and carry out a cardiac emergency response plan that covers AED placement, maintenance and registration and staff CPR and AED training (RSMo 160.482). The law does not require schools to buy AEDs unless the General Assembly appropriates funds.
Missouri AED Law Overview
Starting with the 2026-2027 school year, each Missouri public school must develop and carry out a cardiac emergency response plan that covers AED placement, maintenance and registration and staff CPR and AED training (RSMo 160.482). The law does not require schools to buy AEDs unless the General Assembly appropriates funds.
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 Missouri 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
- Public schools, including charter schools: a cardiac emergency response plan from the 2026-2027 school year, coordinated with local emergency services (RSMo 160.482)
- Schools with athletic programs: a clearly marked, unlocked, easily accessible AED at each athletic venue and event under the plan; buying AEDs is not required unless the General Assembly appropriates funds (RSMo 160.482)
- School AEDs registered with the Missouri 911 service board registry as part of the plan (RSMo 160.482)
- Anyone who acquires an AED: maintain and test it, test it at least every two years and after each use, and inspect it at least every 90 days (RSMo 190.092)
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 Missouri?
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.
Missouri AED Compliance Checklist
Recommended AEDs for Missouri Compliance
Defibtech Lifeline
Budget-friendly reliability. Clear audio/visual prompts and rugged design for any environment.
View Details →Missouri AED FAQs
Is an AED required in Missouri?
What are the penalties for not having an AED in Missouri?
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Does Missouri have Good Samaritan protection for AED users?
Where should I place an AED in my building?
Protect Your Missouri Business Today
Every second counts during a cardiac emergency. Equip your facility with an FDA-approved AED, then register it with us to keep it rescue-ready.
Free AED program management for every AED you register. We track your pads and battery expiration dates automatically.