AED Requirements in Pennsylvania
Under Act 17 of 2026, Pennsylvania school entities and nonpublic schools that take part in interscholastic athletics must keep an AED readily accessible for athletics and practices, and every school building must have an AED- and CPR-trained person present each school day (Public School Code §§ 1423.1, 1423.3). Schools have three years from the act's May 13, 2026 effective date to comply.
Pennsylvania AED Law Overview
Under Act 17 of 2026, Pennsylvania school entities and nonpublic schools that take part in interscholastic athletics must keep an AED readily accessible for athletics and practices, and every school building must have an AED- and CPR-trained person present each school day (Public School Code §§ 1423.1, 1423.3). Schools have three years from the act's May 13, 2026 effective date to comply.
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 Pennsylvania 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
- Schools with interscholastic athletics: an AED readily accessible for athletics and practices, tested and maintained to the manufacturer's guidelines (§ 1423.3; compliance due within three years of May 13, 2026)
- Each school building: at least one person trained and certified in AED use and CPR present every school day (§ 1423.1; same compliance period)
- Schools with interscholastic athletics: a cardiac emergency response plan, reviewed each year, with annual drills (§ 1423.1; same compliance period)
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 Pennsylvania?
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.
Pennsylvania AED Compliance Checklist
Recommended AEDs for Pennsylvania Compliance
Defibtech Lifeline
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View Details →Pennsylvania AED FAQs
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Protect Your Pennsylvania Business Today
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