AED Requirements in Wisconsin
We found no Wisconsin statute that requires businesses or schools to have an AED. Wisconsin requires for-profit fitness centers to have staff proficient in AED use, either on site whenever the center is open or by training every employee within 90 days of hire (Wis. Stat. § 100.178), and schools teaching grades 7-12 must teach students about AEDs (Wis. Stat. § 118.076).
Wisconsin AED Law Overview
We found no Wisconsin statute that requires businesses or schools to have an AED. Wisconsin requires for-profit fitness centers to have staff proficient in AED use, either on site whenever the center is open or by training every employee within 90 days of hire (Wis. Stat. § 100.178), and schools teaching grades 7-12 must teach students about AEDs (Wis. Stat. § 118.076).
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 Wisconsin 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
- For-profit fitness centers: at least one employee trained in first aid and CPR and at least one proficient in AED use on site whenever the center is open, or every employee trained within 90 days of hire, with a posted notice (Wis. Stat. § 100.178)
- Public, charter and private schools operating any of grades 7-12: CPR instruction and instruction about AEDs (Wis. Stat. § 118.076)
- Licensed child care centers, group homes and shelter care facilities: licensing rules must require caregiving staff to have current AED proficiency (Wis. Stat. § 48.67)
Sources
- Wis. Stat. ch. 100 (§§ 100.177 and 100.178)
- Wis. Stat. ch. 118 (§ 118.076)
- Wis. Stat. ch. 48 (§ 48.67)
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 Wisconsin?
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.
Wisconsin AED Compliance Checklist
Recommended AEDs for Wisconsin Compliance
Defibtech Lifeline
Budget-friendly reliability. Clear audio/visual prompts and rugged design for any environment.
View Details →Wisconsin AED FAQs
Is an AED required in Wisconsin?
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Where should I place an AED in my building?
Protect Your Wisconsin 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.
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