AED Laws & Requirements in Kentucky
Reviewed against Kentucky law on
Kentucky AED requirements at a glance
| AED checks and maintenance |
Required Maintain and test to manufacturer guidelines (KRS 311.667). |
|---|---|
| CPR and AED training |
Required Expected users need AHA, Red Cross, or equivalent CPR and AED training. |
| Medical direction (physician oversight) |
Required A Kentucky-licensed physician must oversee the program and review each use. |
| EMS registration of the AED |
Required Notify local EMS and the dispatch center of AED existence, location, and type. |
| School cardiac emergency response plan |
Required Every school needs an AED and a written cardiac emergency response plan rehearsed before each season (KRS 158.162). |
Official sources:law.justia.com, apps.legislature.ky.gov
Kentucky is one of the states that still requires physician oversight for every AED program (KRS 311.665 through 311.669), and since 2024 it has required an AED and a written cardiac emergency response plan in every school.
Medical Oversight:
A Kentucky-licensed physician must oversee the AED program, help set deployment protocols, make sure training, maintenance, and notification duties are met, and review each use (KRS 311.667). Readiness and compliance packages include physician oversight.
Training:
Expected users must complete CPR and AED training from the American Heart Association, the American Red Cross, or an equivalent nationally recognized course. Our CPR and AED certification classes qualify.
EMS Notification:
Owners must notify the local EMS system and the local emergency communications or dispatch center of the AED's existence, location, and type. AED365 program management keeps location records current.
Maintenance:
AEDs must be maintained and tested to the manufacturer's operating guidelines. Our pad and battery guide lists replacement intervals by model.
Use Protocol:
Anyone who uses an AED on a person in cardiac arrest must activate EMS as soon as possible, and programs must report each clinical use to the overseeing physician.
Good Samaritan Protection:
Kentucky protects the physician involved in AED placement, CPR and AED trainers, and whoever is responsible for the site, except for gross negligence or willful or wanton misconduct.
Schools (KRS 158.162, updated by HB 169 in 2024):
Every school must keep a portable AED in a public, readily accessible, well-marked location, with at least three employees trained to use it. AEDs at athletic practices and competitions are required as funds become available. Each school's emergency plan must include a written cardiac emergency response plan and a diagram showing every AED location, shared with first responders and staff, reviewed each year, and rehearsed before every athletic season. All interscholastic coaches must be trained in AED use and keep current CPR certification. Off-campus school events need an event-specific emergency action plan. Principals report AED locations and trained staff to the state each November 1, and a state School AED Fund offers needs-based grants. Browse AEDs for schools.
Where does your Kentucky AED program stand?
Run the free readiness review. A specialist will walk you through what Kentucky asks of your organization.
AED.US does not provide legal advice. AED laws change and vary by facility type. Confirm your requirements with your counsel or the appropriate Kentucky agency.