The University of Alabama, Division of Finance and Operations

Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Policy

Unit:  Environmental Health and Safety
Contact: Gene Holcomb
Title:  Assistant Director
Effective Date: 7/27/2022
Revision Date: 07/27/2022

 
 

Purpose

    Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) make it possible for laypersons to administer defibrillation during the critical minutes between the onset of sudden cardiac arrest and the arrival of emergency medical services personnel. The purpose of this policy is to assign responsibility for the purchase and management of AEDs, establish AED-user training options, and provide continuity and consistency across campus in AED installation, maintenance, and use.
      

    Policy

    A representative from Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) will serve as the University of Alabama's (University) AED Coordinator. The AED Coordinator is responsible for the following:
    • Providing guidance, monitoring, and periodic reevaluation for this program;
    • Providing oversight and technical assistance in purchasing and placing AEDs;
    • Maintaining an inventory of AEDs and their locations;
    • Informing emergency services' responders and the University's Office of Emergency Management of the location of all AEDs;
    • Conducting and documenting AED inspections to verify that AEDs are in compliance; and
    • Acting as a liaison between University and manufacturers to assist with AED maintenance and compliance issues.

    Requesting  and Installing AEDs

    All AEDs that will be affixed to any surface in a University building must be purchased through EHS.  Any department or group wishing to purchase an AED should submit a funded work order to EHS.  Upon receipt of the work order, EHS will purchase the AED at a contract rate from an approved supplier, work with the department to determine the best location for the AED, and install the cabinet that holds the AED.  

    Incident Notification and Documentation, and Returning AED to Service

    In the event that an AED is used, departments must notify the AED Coordinator within 24 hours by calling EHS at 205-348-5905. The AED Coordinator will conduct an incident debriefing and complete an AED Incident Report. EHS will:
    • Check and replenish supplies as appropriate.
    • Clean and disinfect the device.
    • Check the device for proper working order.
    • Return the AED to its designated location.
    Training
    The University offers AED and CPR training through the Institute for Rural Health Research - Emergency Medical Services Program (contact Travis Parker at teparker2@ua.edu) and University Recreation (contact Zack Tolbert at ztolbert@ua.edu).
     

    Scope

    This policy applies to faculty, staff, students, and visitors.     		 
     

    Office of the Vice President of Finance and Operations

    Approved by Cheryl Mowdy, Assistant Vice President for Finance and Operations, 07/27/2022