AED Requirements in California
California has some of the strongest AED requirements in the nation. Health Studios Act requires AEDs in all health studios/gyms. AB 1719 requires AEDs in certain buildings.
California AED Law Overview
California has some of the strongest AED requirements in the nation. Health Studios Act requires AEDs in all health studios/gyms. AB 1719 requires AEDs in certain buildings.
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 California 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
- Health studios and gyms (mandatory)
- Buildings with specific occupancy levels
- Schools encouraged
- Staff training required
- Annual inspection required
Who Needs an AED in California?
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.
California AED Compliance Checklist
Recommended AEDs for California Compliance
ZOLL AED 3
Real-time CPR feedback, WiFi-enabled monitoring, and the longest pad/battery life in the industry.
View Details →Philips HeartStart
Trusted by millions worldwide. Simple voice instructions guide any user through a rescue.
View Details →Defibtech Lifeline
Budget-friendly reliability. Clear audio/visual prompts and rugged design for any environment.
View Details →California AED FAQs
Is an AED required in California?
What are the penalties for not having an AED in California?
Do I need training to use an AED?
How often do AED pads and batteries need replacing?
Does California have Good Samaritan protection for AED users?
Where should I place an AED in my building?
Protect Your California Business Today
Every second counts during a cardiac emergency. Equip your facility with an FDA-approved AED and join thousands of organizations keeping their people safe.
Free AED program management included with every purchase. We track your pads and battery expiration dates automatically.