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Texas AED Laws, Regulations, and Legal Requirements
Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) play a critical role in saving lives during sudden cardiac arrest, and Texas has established clear laws and regulations to ensure their proper use. From schools and dental offices to nursing homes and public facilities, these requirements help guarantee that AEDs are accessible, properly maintained, and ready for emergencies.
Texas AED laws also include standards for CPR and AED training, device maintenance, and emergency protocols, while providing legal protection under the Good Samaritan Law for individuals acting in good faith. These measures aim to improve response times, increase survival rates, and give both trained staff and bystanders confidence during life-threatening situations.
This blog explains Texas AED program requirements, training, and placement rules for various facilities, emergency preparedness standards, and legal protections to help organizations and individuals stay compliant while saving lives.
What are the Current AED Program Requirements in Texas?
In Texas, automated external defibrillator (AED) programs are regulated under Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 779, which outlines several responsibilities for organizations or individuals that acquire and maintain an AED. Key AED program requirements include:
Medical supervision: An AED program should operate under the guidance of a licensed physician who provides medical oversight for the program.
CPR and AED training: Individuals expected to use the AED should receive proper training in CPR and AED operation from a nationally recognized organization.
Device maintenance: AED owners must maintain and test the device regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure it remains functional and ready for emergencies.
EMS notification: The owner or operator should notify the local emergency medical services (EMS) provider about the AED, including the device type and its location.
Emergency response activation: When an AED is used during a cardiac emergency, emergency services should be contacted immediately, typically by calling 911.
Program compliance: Organizations that properly follow AED program requirements may qualify for liability protection under Texas Good Samaritan provisions.
These requirements help ensure that AED devices are properly managed, accessible, and ready to support rapid response during sudden cardiac arrest emergencies.
What are the Requirements for CPR and AED Training for School Students in Texas?
In Texas, state education laws require schools to provide CPR and AED instruction to students as part of their curriculum. The requirements are outlined under 19 Texas Administrative Code §74.38 and related provisions of the Texas Education Code.
CPR training requirement: Public schools and open-enrollment charter schools must provide CPR instruction to students in grades 7 through 12.
Training before graduation: Each student must receive CPR instruction at least once before graduating from high school.
AED instruction included: CPR training must also include instruction on how to use an automated external defibrillator (AED). This requirement applies to students entering grade 7 starting in the 2024–2025 school year.
Evidence-based training programs: The training must follow nationally recognized emergency cardiovascular care guidelines, such as programs developed by the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross.
Hands-on skill component: CPR instruction must include practical skill practice, helping students learn basic life-saving techniques and AED operation.
Flexible course placement: Schools may provide CPR and AED training as part of any course, such as health, physical education, or other classes.
Certification not mandatory: The training does not have to result in CPR certification, although certification may be offered if the instructor is authorized by a recognized training organization.
These requirements aim to ensure that students graduate with basic life-saving knowledge and are prepared to respond to cardiac emergencies in schools, homes, or public places.
What are the AED Requirements in Schools in Texas?
In Texas, state education laws require public schools to maintain automated external defibrillators (AEDs) on campus and ensure they are accessible during emergencies. Key requirements include:
AED required on every campus: Under the Texas Education Code §38.017, each public school campus must have at least one automated external defibrillator available.
Accessible and visible placement: AEDs should be placed in clearly marked and easily accessible locations, especially near areas where large gatherings or athletic activities occur.
Availability during school activities: The AED must be available during school hours and during school-sponsored events, including athletic practices and competitions held on campus.
Unlocked and ready for use: AED devices should not be stored in locked cabinets or cases when staff or students are present, ensuring quick access during emergencies.
Maintenance and inspection: Schools are responsible for regular inspection and maintenance of AED units to confirm they are functioning properly and ready for use in a cardiac emergency.
Staff preparedness: Schools are encouraged to ensure that staff members such as coaches, nurses, and physical education instructors are trained in CPR and AED use, improving emergency response capability on campus.
These requirements help ensure that AED devices are available and functional in Texas schools, enabling a faster response to sudden cardiac arrest and improving survival outcomes for students, staff, and visitors.
What are the AED Requirements in Dental Offices and Facilities in Texas?
In Texas, dental offices that administer anesthesia must maintain appropriate emergency medical equipment, including an automated external defibrillator (AED). This requirement is established under Texas Occupations Code § 258.1556, which regulates anesthesia permits issued by the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners. The law requires dental practices providing anesthesia or sedation services to be prepared to manage medical emergencies with proper equipment and trained personnel. Additional standards for AED maintenance, training, and emergency response are addressed under Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 779.
Key requirements include:
AED availability: Dental offices that administer anesthesia or sedation must maintain an automated external defibrillator on site as part of the required emergency equipment.
Trained personnel: At least one staff member trained in CPR and AED use should be present when anesthesia or sedation procedures are performed.
Device maintenance: The AED must be inspected, tested, and maintained according to the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure it is functional.
Accessible placement: The device should be kept in a clearly identifiable and easily accessible location for rapid use during an emergency.
Emergency preparedness: Dental facilities must maintain emergency response equipment and protocols to manage cardiac or anesthesia-related emergencies.
These requirements help ensure that dental practices providing anesthesia services in Texas are prepared to respond quickly to sudden cardiac arrest and other medical emergencies.
What are the AED Requirements in Nursing Homes / Convalescent Facilities in Texas?
In Texas, nursing homes and convalescent care facilities are required to maintain automated external defibrillators (AEDs) as part of their emergency medical preparedness. This requirement is established under Texas Health and Safety Code § 242.159 and implemented through 26 Texas Administrative Code § 554.1935, which set standards for AED availability, staff preparedness, and device maintenance in long-term care facilities.
Key requirements include:
AED availability: Facilities must maintain at least one AED per floor or building, ensuring coverage throughout the facility.
Trained staff: Personnel should be trained in CPR and AED use to ensure a timely response during cardiac emergencies.
Emergency response planning: Facilities must include AED use in their emergency preparedness and response procedures.
Device maintenance: AEDs must be inspected, tested, and maintained according to the manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure proper operation.
Accessible placement: The device should be kept in a clearly marked and easily accessible location within the facility.
- Regulatory compliance: Facilities must follow applicable Texas health and safety regulations related to emergency medical equipment and resident safety.
What are the AED Requirements in Swimming Pools and Lagoons in Texas?
In Texas, certain aquatic facilities, including lifeguarded public swimming pools and artificial swimming lagoons, may provide access to automated external defibrillators (AEDs) as part of their emergency preparedness measures. Safety and operational standards for these facilities are established under 25 Texas Administrative Code Chapter 265, with rulemaking authority derived from Texas Health and Safety Code § 341.0645, which allows the state to adopt regulations to protect public health at recreational water facilities.
Key requirements include:
Emergency safety equipment: Aquatic facilities should maintain appropriate emergency response equipment, which may include an automated external defibrillator, depending on facility policies or local regulations.
Availability during operations: Emergency equipment should be accessible whenever the pool or lagoon is open to the public.
Trained personnel: Lifeguards, operators, or designated staff should have CPR and AED training to respond to medical emergencies.
Accessible placement: Emergency equipment should be kept in a clearly visible and easily accessible location, such as near lifeguard stations or first aid areas.
Routine maintenance: Devices must be inspected and maintained according to the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure they remain functional.
Emergency response planning: Aquatic facilities should incorporate AED use into their emergency action plans and coordinate response procedures with local emergency medical services (EMS).
These measures support emergency preparedness at aquatic facilities and help improve response times during cardiac emergencies involving swimmers, staff, or visitors.
What are the AED Requirements in Pediatric Extended Care Facilities in Texas?
In Texas, pediatric extended care facilities (PECFs) serving children with complex medical needs are required to maintain automated external defibrillators (AEDs) as part of their emergency medical equipment standards. This requirement is established under Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 248A and implemented through 26 Texas Administrative Code Chapter 702, which sets standards for licensing, safety, and emergency preparedness.
Key requirements include:
AED availability: Facilities must maintain at least one automated external defibrillator on site as part of emergency medical equipment.
Trained healthcare staff: Staff should have training in CPR and AED use to respond quickly to cardiac or respiratory emergencies.
Emergency response planning: AED use must be incorporated into the facility’s emergency preparedness protocols, including coordination with emergency medical services (EMS).
Routine inspection and maintenance: AEDs must be regularly inspected, tested, and maintained according to manufacturer guidelines.
Accessible placement: Devices should be in clearly marked, easily accessible locations to ensure rapid use during emergencies.
Regulatory compliance: Facilities must follow Texas health and safety regulations for medical equipment and patient safety, supporting the availability of life-saving emergency tools.
These measures ensure pediatric extended care facilities are equipped to respond effectively to cardiac emergencies and other life-threatening situations involving medically vulnerable children.
Texas AED Good Samaritan Law and Liability Protection
In Texas, the Good Samaritan protections for using automated external defibrillators (AEDs) are established under Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 74.153. This law provides legal protection to individuals who use an AED in an emergency to help someone experiencing sudden cardiac arrest, encouraging timely intervention without fear of civil liability.
Key points include:
Good Faith Use: Protection applies to anyone who uses an AED responsibly and with the intent to save a life. The law covers both trained and untrained responders, though trained individuals are expected to follow recognized guidelines.
Training Considerations: While prior training in CPR and AED use is highly recommended, legal protection is generally available even for volunteers or bystanders acting in an emergency.
Proper Use of AED: The device must be used according to manufacturer instructions and recognized emergency protocols. Misuse or gross negligence may limit legal protection.
Scope of Protection: The law protects the responder from civil liability for damages resulting from the use or attempted use of an AED in good faith. This includes both private individuals and staff at regulated facilities such as schools, nursing homes, or workplaces.
Facility Responsibility: Organizations that maintain AEDs must ensure devices are regularly inspected, maintained, and accessible, and staff are trained. Compliance with these standards further strengthens liability protection under the law.
By providing these legal safeguards, Texas encourages rapid and confident intervention during cardiac emergencies, ultimately improving survival outcomes.
AED Laws In Texas Improve the Cardiac Emergencies Response
AED programs in Texas are governed by clear regulations that ensure facilities are prepared to respond to cardiac emergencies. From schools and dental offices to nursing homes, aquatic centers, and pediatric extended care facilities, these standards cover AED placement, staff training, device maintenance, and emergency planning. Following these requirements helps protect students, residents, patients, and the public while ensuring rapid response in life-threatening situations.
CPR VAM offers CPR, BLS, ACLS, and PALS courses in Texas to help individuals and staff gain the practical skills needed for emergency response. With hands-on training and expert instructors, our courses prepare participants to act confidently during cardiac emergencies, meet compliance standards, and improve safety in any setting.
FAQs
Private businesses are not universally required by Texas law to have AEDs, but workplaces with higher risk or that choose to provide AEDs must follow Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 779 guidelines. This includes maintaining the device, ensuring trained staff are available, and keeping it accessible for emergencies. Liability protections under the Good Samaritan provisions apply if requirements are met.
Texas law does not penalize employees for failing to use an AED in emergencies. However, employees who are trained and choose to intervene are protected under the Texas Good Samaritan Act, provided the device is used in good faith.
Certain facilities, such as nursing homes or large organizations, must notify local emergency medical services (EMS) when an AED is acquired. Notification typically includes the location and type of AED. There is no statewide centralized registration requirement for private businesses outside of regulated facilities.
Texas regulations do not set a minimum age for operating an AED, but staff must have completed a CPR and AED training program from a recognized organization, such as the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross. The ability to respond safely is the primary requirement.
Mobile or temporary event locations are not specifically required to have AEDs under Texas law, but if a facility chooses to provide an AED, staff must be trained, the device must be maintained, and it should be accessible during operating hours. Liability protections apply if used properly.
Texas law does not mandate specific AED brands or models. AEDs must be approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and meet the functional requirements of recognizing cardiac arrhythmias and delivering shocks safely. Compliance with manufacturer guidelines for maintenance and operation is required.
References:
- Texas Legislature. Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 779. 2026. Accessed 13 Mar. 2026. https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/?tab=1&code=HS&chapter=HS.779&artSec=.
- Texas Education Agency. Texas Administrative Code §74.38. 2026. Accessed 13 Mar. 2026. https://tea.texas.gov/about-tea/laws-and-rules/sboe-rules-tac/sboe-adopted/24-06-74-38.pdf.
- Texas Legislature. Texas Education Code §38.017. 2026. Accessed 13 Mar. 2026. https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/?tab=1&code=ED&chapter=ED.38&artSec=.
- Texas Secretary of State. Texas Administrative Code 40 TAC 19.1935. 2026. Accessed 13 Mar. 2026. https://www.sos.texas.gov/texreg/transfers/202005058-1.pdf.
- Texas Legislature. Health and Safety Code Chapter 242. 2026. Accessed 13 Mar. 2026. https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/?tab=1&code=HS&chapter=HS.242&artSec=.
- Cornell Law School. 26 Texas Administrative Code §554.1935. 2026. Accessed 13 Mar. 2026. https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/texas/26-Tex-Admin-Code-SS-554-1935.
- Texas Legislature. Texas Occupations Code §258.1556. 2026. Accessed 13 Mar. 2026. https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/?tab=1&code=OC&chapter=OC.258&artSec=258.1556.
- FindLaw. Texas Health and Safety Code §242.159. 2026. Accessed 13 Mar. 2026. https://codes.findlaw.com/tx/health-and-safety-code/health-safety-sect-242-159/.
- Cornell Law School. 25 Texas Administrative Code §265.170. 2026. Accessed 13 Mar. 2026. https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/texas/25-Tex-Admin-Code-SS-265-170.
- Texas Public Law. Health & Safety Code §341.0645 – Pool Safety. 2026. Accessed 13 Mar. 2026. https://texas.public.law/statutes/tex._health_and_safety_code_section_341.0645.
- Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 74.153. Texas Statutes Online, Texas Legislature, https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/?tab=1&code=CP&chapter=CP.74&artSec=74.153. Accessed 13 Mar. 2026.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for general educational and informational purposes only and is intended to summarize key aspects of Texas AED laws, regulations, and CPR training requirements. While efforts are made to keep the content accurate and up to date, laws and administrative rules may change, and specific compliance obligations can vary depending on the type of facility or organization. CPR VAM does not guarantee the completeness or legal accuracy of this information, and the content should not be considered legal advice. For guidance regarding AED compliance, liability protection, or regulatory requirements in Texas, consult a qualified legal professional or the appropriate state regulatory authority.