AED LAWS & REQUIREMENTS IN KENTUCKY

In Kentucky, the deployment and use of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are governed by specific statutes designed to promote public health and safety. Key requirements include:

Medical Oversight:

Entities or individuals acquiring an AED must ensure that there is medical oversight of the AED program by a physician licensed in Kentucky. The physician is responsible for ensuring compliance with training, maintenance, notification, and communication with the local emergency medical services system.

Training:

Expected AED users are required to receive training in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and AED use from the American Heart Association, the American Red Cross, or an equivalent nationally recognized course.

Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Notification:

AED owners must notify an agent of the local emergency medical services system and the local emergency communications or vehicle dispatch center of the existence, location, and type of AED acquired.

Maintenance Program:

The AED must be maintained and tested according to the manufacturer’s operational guidelines to ensure its readiness for use during emergencies.

Use Protocol:

Any person who uses an AED to render emergency care must activate the local emergency medical services system as soon as possible and report any clinical use of the AED to the licensed physician overseeing the AED program.

Good Samaritan Protection:

Kentucky law provides immunity from civil liability for individuals and entities who, in good faith and without compensation, render emergency care using an AED. This protection extends to:

• The licensed physician involved with AED site placement.
• The person or entity providing CPR and AED training.
• The person or entity responsible for the site where the AED is located.

This immunity does not cover acts of gross negligence or willful or wanton misconduct.

Placement in Schools:

As of 2022, Kentucky law requires schools throughout the state to have AEDs readily available. Coaches and school staff must receive training on cardiac arrest, AEDs, and CPR, and emergency preparedness plans must be established and rehearsed prior to each athletic season.

These regulations aim to encourage the availability and proper use of AEDs, thereby enhancing emergency response efforts across the state.