AED Requirements in Tennessee
Tennessee's Smart Heart Act (Public Chapter 625 of 2024, effective July 1, 2024) requires every public school to have at least one AED and each school board and public charter school governing body to adopt a cardiac emergency response plan (T.C.A. § 49-2-122). Public and nonpublic schools serving grades 9-12 must keep an AED accessible during the school day and school athletic activities.
Tennessee AED Law Overview
Tennessee's Smart Heart Act (Public Chapter 625 of 2024, effective July 1, 2024) requires every public school to have at least one AED and each school board and public charter school governing body to adopt a cardiac emergency response plan (T.C.A. § 49-2-122). Public and nonpublic schools serving grades 9-12 must keep an AED accessible during the school day and school athletic activities.
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 Tennessee 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: at least one AED placed within the school, with more placed under the school's plan (T.C.A. § 49-2-122)
- School boards and public charter school governing bodies: a cardiac emergency response plan that sets the number of AEDs, creates a response team at each school and is reviewed every year (T.C.A. § 49-2-122)
- School AEDs: not kept in an inaccessible office or a locked location (T.C.A. § 49-2-122)
- Public and nonpublic schools serving any of grades 9-12: an AED with signage that is accessible during the school day and all school youth athletic activities (Public Chapter 625 of 2024, Section 4)
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 Tennessee?
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.
Tennessee AED Compliance Checklist
Recommended AEDs for Tennessee Compliance
Defibtech Lifeline
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View Details →Tennessee AED FAQs
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Protect Your Tennessee Business Today
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