AED Inspections – How to Inspect and Maintain an AED

Emergency readiness relies on a consistent AED inspection routine, as these devices are only effective if fully functional. This guide details essential maintenance protocols and demonstrates how InspectNTrack streamlines the management of your life safety equipment program to ensure compliance.

On January 2, 2023, NFL safety Damar Hamlin went into sudden cardiac arrest on the field during a Monday night football game. Millions of people watched in horror as first responders tried to revive him. CPR was performed, but ultimately it was the use of an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) that reset his heart rhythm and stabilized him until he could be transported to the hospital.

AEDs are things that people might have previously casually recognized hanging on the wall in public places or might have looked past altogether. Damar Hamlin’s tragic event had one positive outcome: over 23 million viewers witnessed his injury and then subsequently witnessed his miraculous lifesaving effort which included the use of an AED. This has brought AEDs into the spotlight as an invaluable lifesaving tool.

The use of an automated external defibrillator (AED) in the event of sudden cardiac arrest can significantly increase the chances of survival. According to studies, the survival rate for people who receive defibrillation within the first few minutes of cardiac arrest can be as high as 74%. The survival rate decreases by 7-10% for every minute that defibrillation is delayed. Survival rates are also influenced by the location of the cardiac arrest, with higher survival rates in places where AEDs are more likely to be immediately available.

In addition, the use of an AED in conjunction with CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) can further increase the chances of survival. According to the American Heart Association, the combination of CPR and AED use can increase the survival rate for cardiac arrest to as high as 45%. It’s important to note that these are averages from studies, and individual cases may vary. But in general, AEDs can play an important role in increasing the chances of survival for someone experiencing sudden cardiac arrest.

Clearly AEDs are an invaluable tool to have during a cardiac arrest event, but AEDs can only save lives if they work properly in the moment they are needed. Imagine if the AED used by Damar Hamlin’s first responders had a dead battery, or was missing the pads, or was damaged. Damar might have had a drastically different outcome.

OSHA standards do not specifically address AED usage and maintenance, but OSHA Publication 3185 (2003) encourages the installation of AEDs in workplaces and offers resources and guidance. There are also generally accepted inspection, testing, and maintenance guidelines that AED owners can follow to ensure that their devices are always ready for use.

The frequency at which an AED needs to be inspected can vary depending on the manufacturer’s recommendations and local regulations. In general, it is recommended to inspect an AED at least once a month to ensure it is functioning properly and ready for use in case of an emergency.

It’s also important to keep the AED in a secure and accessible location. Also, it’s recommended to do an annual inspection by a qualified professional, which includes a more thorough check of the device including all the electrical and mechanical components.

To inspect an AED (Automated External Defibrillator), follow these steps:

1. Check the expiration date of the AED pads and battery. If either has expired, replace them.
2. Turn on the AED and make sure it is functioning properly. Listen for a beep or check for a green indicator light.
3. Check the AED pads for any damage, such as tears or discoloration. If the pads are damaged, replace them.
4. Make sure the AED is clean and free of debris. Wipe it down with a damp cloth if necessary.
5. Check the AED’s case or carrying bag to ensure it is in good condition and properly secured.
6. Test the AED’s self-test function to make sure it is functioning properly.
7. Record the date and result of the inspection.

Note that these are general inspection guidelines and it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and recommendations for inspection and maintenance of the AED.

Yes, AEDs are subject to regulatory standards. In the United States, they fall under the oversight of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA categorizes AEDs as Class III medical devices, the classification reserved for products requiring the highest level of regulatory control.

To be marketed and used in the U.S., AEDs must receive FDA clearance or approval and comply with the requirements outlined in Title 21, Part 870.2250 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). These standards address elements such as electrical safety, device performance, labeling, and instructions for use.

Beyond federal rules, certain states also impose their own requirements, which may include device registration or training obligations.

In Canada, AEDs are regulated by Health Canada. Before they can be sold, they must be certified through review by Health Canada’s Medical Devices Bureau to ensure compliance with the Canadian Medical Devices Regulations.

Within the European Union, AEDs are regulated through the European Medicines Agency (EMA). Devices sold in the EU must carry the CE mark, demonstrating compliance with the Medical Device Directive (93/42/EEC) as well as the Medical Devices Regulation (2017/745).

Because these regulatory frameworks can change over time, it is essential to remain up to date and ensure ongoing compliance when purchasing or maintaining an AED.

Managing multiple AEDs across a workplace can quickly become difficult, especially when tracking locations, inspection schedules, and maintenance records. Without a centralized system, it’s easy for inspections to be missed or documentation to become inconsistent.

Life safety inspection software like InspectNTrack simplifies this process by centralizing AED management. Each device is assigned a unique barcode, allowing users to maintain a complete inventory with key details such as location, manufacturer, and model information. The software also automates inspection scheduling, ensuring nothing falls through the cracks.

When inspections are due, users receive notifications and can complete them by scanning the AED’s barcode and following guided prompts. Results are automatically recorded, and reports can be generated at any time, making compliance tracking straightforward and efficient.

If an AED fails inspection, customized workflows help ensure issues are resolved quickly. These workflows can trigger notifications, create work orders, log discrepancies, and generate reports—helping teams identify and fix problems without delay.