AED Requirements in Virginia
Virginia requires each local school board to place an AED in every public elementary and secondary school (Va. Code § 22.1-274.4), and each public school to keep a cardiac emergency response plan or athletic emergency action plan (Va. Code § 22.1-271.9). Every health club location must have a working AED (Va. Code § 59.1-296.2:2).
Virginia AED Law Overview
Virginia requires each local school board to place an AED in every public elementary and secondary school (Va. Code § 22.1-274.4), and each public school to keep a cardiac emergency response plan or athletic emergency action plan (Va. Code § 22.1-271.9). Every health club location must have a working AED (Va. Code § 59.1-296.2:2).
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 Virginia 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 elementary and secondary schools: an AED in every school, under a school board plan for its placement, care and use (Va. Code § 22.1-274.4)
- Public schools: a cardiac emergency response plan or athletic emergency action plan with AEDs at school athletic venues, yearly drills and a yearly review (Va. Code § 22.1-271.9)
- School buildings: at least three employees with current first aid, CPR and AED certification or training, or two in buildings with fewer than 10 instructional and administrative staff (Va. Code § 22.1-274)
- Health clubs, as defined in Va. Code § 59.1-296: a working AED at each location (Va. Code § 59.1-296.2:2)
Sources
- Code of Virginia § 22.1-274.4
- Code of Virginia § 22.1-271.9
- Code of Virginia § 22.1-274
- Code of Virginia § 59.1-296.2:2
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 Virginia?
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.
Virginia AED Compliance Checklist
Recommended AEDs for Virginia Compliance
Defibtech Lifeline
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View Details →Virginia AED FAQs
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Protect Your Virginia Business Today
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