The state of Maryland has AED requirements that affect schools, swimming pools, dental offices, and any facility that wishes to acquire an AED. Understanding Maryland’s automated external defibrillation requirements will help you stay in compliance with the law and be prepared to save a life.
Good Samaritan Protection
According to MD Cts & Jud Pro Code § 5-603 (2013), a rescuer who uses an AED in good faith, without compensation, relinquishing care of the victim to the emergency medical services personnel when they arrive is protected from civil liability for the consequences of rendering automated external defibrillation.
According to MD Educ Code § 13-517 (2013), the following people are also immune from civil liability except in the case of gross negligence or willful or wanton misconduct:
- The AED acquirer
- The owner of the facility in which the AED is located
- The person who retrieves the AED
- The supervising physician
- The instructor in an approved AED training program or educational training course
- People involved in designing, managing, or operating an AED program
A facility that acquires an AED must satisfy the EMS Board’s requirements in order to enjoy immunity against civil liability.
AEDs in Schools
According to MD Educ Code § 7-425 (2013), every high school in each county in Maryland must have an automated external defibrillator on-site. Furthermore, there should be an individual trained in the use of AEDs present at school-sponsored athletic events. Students entering 9th grade must receive AED training before graduation.
Recommended AED for Schools
The HeartSine Samaritan PAD 350P, Samaritan PAD 360P, and Samaritan PAD 450P are ideal for fulfilling Maryland AED requirements. These portable defibrillators are the lightest in the industry at only 2.4 lbs. A simple two-button operation makes it easy for anyone to use the device, and easy-to-use pediatric pads are available (sold separately).
AEDs at Swimming Pools
Each county or municipality that operates a swimming pool must develop an automated external defibrillator program according to the requirements in MD Educ Code § 13-517 (2013), COMAR 30.06.02, and § 1-1310 LOCAL GOV’T. The program must include facility registration with the emergency medical services system, AED educational and training programs, refresher training, medical oversight from a physician or regional council AED committee, quality assurance, AED maintenance, and reporting.
Recommended AED for Swimming Pools
TheZOLL AED Plus is an excellent choice for swimming pools thanks to its high dust and water rating, shock resistance, and compact design. Fully automatic and semi-automatic automated external defibrillators are available.
AEDs in Dental Offices
As per Maryland Code of Regulations – 10.44.12.01, .02, .11, dentists must have a defibrillator or automated external defibrillator on-site in order to qualify for a permit to administer outpatient anesthesia and sedation.
Recommended AED for Dental Offices
The Philips HeartStart FRx is recommended for dental offices because:
- The optional CPR coaching can be turned off if not required.
- The child/infant key attenuates the energy of the shock without the need to purchase pediatric electrode pads.
- The pads are compatible with many EMS defibrillators, allowing for seamless continuity of care.
Know the Law and Be Ready to Save a Life
Maryland AED requirements are designed to ensure that AEDs are available and ready to use in places where a sudden cardiac arrest is statistically most likely to occur (schools, athletic events, swimming pools, and dental offices using outpatient sedation). Moreover, the training, registration, and certification requirements help to ensure the most rapid possible response in coordination with emergency medical services systems.
AED program management can help you make sure you comply with AED laws in Maryland and around the United States in a coordinated and systematic way. Know your obligations, and prepare your team and facility to be ready to save a life in an emergency.