California AED Laws
California
Primary statute: Civil Code § 1714.21; Health & Safety Code § 1797.196
| Good Samaritan Protection | Broad immunity for lay rescuers, acquirers, trainers, owners, and physicians, provided maintenance and training conditions are met. |
|---|---|
| Medical Direction | Not required, though program oversight is recommended. |
| Training | Required. At least one employee per AED-equipped building must be trained in CPR/AED use; training must be renewed every two years. |
| Maintenance & Testing | Required. AEDs must be tested at least once every 30 days and after each use, with records maintained. |
| EMS Notification | Required. Local EMS must be notified of the AED's existence and location. |
| Placement Mandates | Mandatory in health clubs (AB 2196), state-owned and leased buildings constructed after 2017, K-12 schools (specific districts), and many public-occupancy buildings. |
Practical note: California has one of the most prescriptive AED regulatory frameworks in the country. Programs operating in multiple states should treat California as the high-water mark for documentation and compliance practices.
Legal Disclaimer
This guide is provided for general educational purposes only. It is not legal advice, and it does not create an attorney-client relationship. State AED laws change, and statutory citations evolve through amendment and case law. AED Professionals makes no warranty, express or implied, that the information contained in this guide is current, complete, or accurate for any particular jurisdiction or compliance question. Before relying on this material for any decision affecting compliance, liability, or program operations, verify current requirements with primary sources (state statutes, regulations, and EMS authority guidance) or with qualified legal counsel licensed in the relevant jurisdiction.
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