AED LAWS & REQUIREMENTS IN MARYLAND

In Maryland, the deployment and use of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are governed by comprehensive legislation aimed at enhancing public health and safety. Key requirements include:

Placement Requirements:

Educational Institutions: Maryland mandates that every school in the state have an AED on the premises and at all school-sponsored athletic events.

Grocery Stores and Restaurants: Beginning January 1, 2025, specified grocery stores and restaurants are required to place an AED in a prominent, accessible area for employees and customers. This requirement applies to:

Grocery Stores: Stores with all major food departments (produce, meat, seafood, dairy, and packaged goods) or at least one major food department and a minimum of 12,000 square feet of floor space. Stores with annual gross incomes of $10 million or less are exempt.

Restaurants: Establishments with annual gross incomes exceeding $1 million (excluding off-premises sales) and a seating capacity of 100 or more individuals. Restaurants with annual gross incomes of $1 million or less or a seating capacity of less than 100 individuals are exempt.

Training:

Expected AED users should receive appropriate training in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and AED use from nationally recognized courses, such as those offered by the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross.

Maintenance Program:

AEDs must be maintained and tested according to the manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure proper functionality. Owners are also required to keep written records of all maintenance and testing activities.

Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Notification:

AED owners are required to notify local EMS providers, such as 911 services, local ambulance services, or fire departments, about the acquisition, location, and type of AED.

Use Protocol:

Upon using an AED, the user must activate the EMS system as soon as possible and report any clinical use of the AED to the appropriate medical authority.

Good Samaritan Protection:

Maryland 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:

• Individuals who use an AED in an emergency.
• Owners or operators of premises where an AED is located.
• Physicians or other medical professionals involved in AED programs.
• Individuals providing training in the use of AEDs.

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

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