Safety & Compliance · SOP

AED Defibrillator Monthly Check

This procedure defines the monthly inspection, verification, and documentation process for all automated external defibrillators (AEDs) on site. The goal is to ensure every unit is fully operational, within manufacturer expiry dates, and ready for immediate emergency deployment — meeting WorkSafeBC and CSA Z432 compliance requirements.

Estimated Time

15 min

Difficulty

Basic

Regulation

WorkSafeBC OHS

Version

1.0

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Purpose

To ensure all automated external defibrillators (AEDs) on site are fully operational, within manufacturer expiry dates for batteries and electrode pads, and ready for emergency use. This procedure establishes a consistent monthly inspection cadence that meets regulatory requirements under WorkSafeBC OHS Regulation Part 32 — Electrical Equipment and aligns with CSA Z432 — Safeguarding of Machinery and manufacturer maintenance guidelines. Early detection of faults, expired components, or cabinet damage prevents equipment failure during a cardiac emergency.

Scope

This procedure applies to every AED unit located within the facility perimeter — including main production floor, warehouse aisles, office corridors, break rooms, remote outbuildings, and vehicle-mounted units (if carried by field crews). It covers visual cabinet inspection, status indicator verification, battery and electrode pad expiry validation, accessory inventory, and documentation logging. This SOP does not cover advanced troubleshooting, internal repairs, or software updates — those must be performed by a qualified AED service technician per manufacturer guidelines.

Safety Precautions

ACCESSNever block, lock, or obstruct AED cabinets during inspections. Ensure the unit is accessible at all times. If a fault is found, tag the cabinet with a clearly visible "Out of Service — Do Not Use" sign and notify the safety manager immediately.
PPEWear disposable gloves if handling used electrode pads, exposed adhesive surfaces, or any equipment that may have contacted bodily fluids. Follow site biohazard disposal protocols for contaminated items.
BATTERYLithium batteries must not be punctured, crushed, incinerated, or exposed to water. Dispose of expired or defective batteries according to manufacturer instructions and local hazardous waste regulations.
ELECTRICALDo not open the AED internal casing, disconnect internal wiring, or attempt any repairs. This monthly check is limited to user-serviceable components (battery, pads, cabinet). All other service requires a certified technician.
REPORTINGAny deficiency — red status light, expired battery or pads, damaged cabinet, missing accessories — must be recorded on a non-conformance report and escalated to the site safety manager within 24 hours. Do not leave a faulty unit in service.

Required Tools & Materials

AED unit with corresponding manufacturer operation manual
Spare electrode pad set (sealed, within expiry date)
Spare battery pack (within expiry date, correct model)
Site-specific AED inspection logbook or digital form
Pen or mobile device for documentation
Disposable nitrile gloves (one pair per inspection)
Small flashlight for visual inspection of cabinet and connectors
"Inspected — OK" date sticker or tag (if used at your site)

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Procedure: Step-by-Step

1 Visual Inspection of AED Cabinet and Signage — Locate the AED unit using the site map or emergency equipment register. Inspect the exterior cabinet or wall mount for physical damage, corrosion, or obstructions. Verify that the AED symbol signage is clearly visible and unobstructed. Open the cabinet and check that the unit is seated correctly and the latch or seal is intact. Remove any dust, debris, or foreign material from the cabinet interior.

2 Status Indicator Check — Locate the status indicator light on the AED unit (usually a green/red LED on the top or front panel). If the indicator shows a steady green light, the unit has passed its internal self-test. If the light is flashing red, solid red, or off, the unit has a fault — proceed to fault isolation steps in the manufacturer manual or tag the unit out of service immediately.

3 Battery Inspection and Expiry Verification — Remove the battery compartment cover (if accessible without tools). Verify the battery type matches the manufacturer specification. Check the battery insertion date sticker and the manufacturer expiry date printed on the battery housing. If the battery is within 3 months of expiry, schedule replacement. If expired, install a new battery immediately and note the replacement date. Reinstall the compartment cover securely.

4 Electrode Pad Inspection and Expiry Verification — Open the sealed pad package only if the unit requires periodic pad connection testing per manufacturer instructions (check manual). Verify the pad expiry date printed on the package. If pads are expired or within 30 days of expiry, install a new set. Inspect the pad connector for bent pins or corrosion. If the pads are pre-connected to the unit, confirm the cable is not pinched or damaged. Record the pad part number and lot number.

5 Accessories and Supplies Check — Verify that all ancillary items are present and within their expiry dates: spare razor (if supplied), face shield or CPR barrier, pair of nitrile gloves, trauma shears (if applicable), and any site-specific items such as a pocket mask or oxygen adapter. Check that the items are stored clean and dry. Replace any missing or expired items.

6 Documentation and Logging — Open the AED logbook or digital inspection record. Record the date, time, inspector name, and AED serial number. Note the status indicator result, battery expiry date, pad expiry date, and any actions taken (e.g., replacement, cleaning). Sign and date the log. If a fault was detected, complete a non-conformance report and notify the site safety manager within 24 hours. Affix an "Inspected — OK" sticker to the cabinet if required by site protocol.

AED Defibrillator Monthly Check

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