AED Inspection, Readiness Checks, and Documentation
What an AED readiness check actually covers, how often AEDs are typically checked, and what a defensible AED record looks like when a surveyor, licensing body, or insurer asks for it.
ImportantThis resource provides general information about AED readiness and documentation practices. It is not legal, medical, or regulatory guidance. AED requirements vary by state law, facility type, accreditation program, and manufacturer instructions for use (IFU). Always follow the manufacturer's IFU and confirm the requirements that apply to your facility.
Overview
An AED is only useful if it works the moment someone needs it. Because AEDs sit unused for months or years at a time, readiness depends less on repair and more on a short, repeatable check: is the battery good, are the pads in date, is the self-test indicator showing ready, and can someone actually reach the device.
The manufacturer's instructions for use are the governing authority for any specific AED. Beyond that, requirements can come from state AED statutes, facility licensure, accreditation programs, and the organization's own policy. Those layers differ, so cadence and record-keeping should be confirmed for your facility rather than assumed from a general schedule.
PBES supports facilities on the operational side of that program — performing readiness checks on serviced devices, tracking pad and battery expiration dates, and producing consistent documentation that administrators can retrieve later. PBES is a service and documentation partner, not a regulator or accrediting body.
Requirements checklist
What an AED readiness check covers.
The items commonly reviewed during a routine AED readiness check. Specific steps depend on the model and its IFU.
Status indicator / self-test
Most modern AEDs run automatic self-tests and display a ready indicator or audible alert. The check confirms the indicator shows ready and no service or error prompt is active.
An audible chirp almost always means battery or pads — check both before assuming a device fault.
Battery status and expiration
Confirm the installed battery is within its service or expiration date and that a spare is stocked where facility policy calls for one.
Electrode pad expiration and spares
Pads are consumables with printed expiration dates. Confirm the installed set is in date, the package seal is intact, and pediatric pads or a pediatric mode are available if the facility serves children.
Physical condition
Inspect the case, connectors, cabling, and any visible damage, moisture intrusion, or contamination that could affect use.
Accessories and response kit
Verify the rescue kit contents the facility has designated — gloves, razor, shears, barrier mask, towel — are present and usable.
Location, signage, and access
Confirm the device is in its designated location, clearly signed, unlocked or accessible per policy, and not blocked by storage or furniture.
Cabinet and alarm
Where a wall cabinet is used, confirm the cabinet is intact and any alarm or tamper indicator is functioning.
Documentation of the check
Record the date, who performed the check, the device identity, the items verified, expiration dates observed, and any corrective action taken.
Reference
Typical check items and intervals.
Illustrative only. The manufacturer's IFU, applicable state law, facility licensure, accreditation requirements, and facility policy govern the actual cadence and method for your devices.
FAQ
Common questions.
How often should an AED be inspected?
Follow the manufacturer's instructions for use first. Many facilities perform a brief visual readiness check monthly, alongside a more detailed periodic review, but the required interval can also be set by state law, licensure, accreditation requirements, or facility policy. Confirm what applies to your facility.
Do I need an AED in my building?
It depends. Some states and facility types require AEDs by statute or licensure, and some accreditation programs address them; many settings adopt them voluntarily. Whether an AED is required for your building should be confirmed against your state's AED law and any applicable licensure or accreditation requirements.
What happens if AED pads expire?
Expired pads should be replaced per the manufacturer's instructions. Adhesive gel can dry over time, which can affect adhesion and performance. Most facilities also treat an expired-pad finding as a documented corrective action so the record shows when the device was returned to a ready state.
Does an AED self-test replace a manual check?
No. Self-tests verify internal electronics and battery status, but they cannot confirm pad expiration, physical damage, missing accessories, blocked access, or a device that has been moved. A brief human check covers what the self-test cannot.
What should an AED record show?
At a minimum: the device identity and location, the date of the check, who performed it, what was verified, battery and pad expiration dates, and any corrective action with the date the device returned to ready status.
Does PBES determine whether my facility complies with AED requirements?
No. PBES performs and documents readiness checks and service on equipment within its scope of service. Determinations about statutory, licensure, or accreditation compliance should be made with your own qualified legal, licensure, and accreditation resources.
Sources and applicability
Where this information comes from.
- American Heart Association — CPR & AED resources
- FDA — Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs)
- FDA — Medical device recalls and safety communications
The manufacturer's instructions for use govern maintenance and readiness requirements for any specific AED. Confirm applicable state law, licensure, and accreditation requirements for your facility before relying on this resource.
Last reviewed: August 2026
Related PBES services
Services that put this into practice.
Facility types this applies to
Who this affects.
AED program support
Put your AEDs on a tracked readiness schedule.
PBES performs AED readiness checks, tracks pad and battery expiration dates by device, and produces consistent documentation your administrators can retrieve on demand.