Person conducting AED maintenance check with checklist and yellow defibrillator, demonstrating proper workplace defibrillator upkeep.

Defibrillator Maintenance: UK Guide for Businesses and Venues

Ensure your AED is inspection-ready. Learn UK defibrillator maintenance rules, checks, and servicing tips to stay compliant and save lives.

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Why Regular Defibrillator Maintenance Is Vital

Defibrillators aren’t just devices; they’re lifelines. For every minute without CPR or AED, survival drops by around 10%, according to the Resuscitation Council UK. Ensuring your AED is maintained means it works when it matters most.

Proactive defibrillator maintenance UK builds a culture of safety and instills confidence among staff, visitors, and regulators, especially when paired with first-aid and CPR training.

UK Standards & Employer Obligations

There is no legal requirement to have an AED on-site, but a health & safety first-aid risk assessment often leads to installing one. Once installed, the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER) apply. AEDs must be inspected and maintained accordingly. For healthcare settings, compliance with the CQC, MHRA, and Resuscitation Council includes mandatory maintenance logs.

Daily and Weekly Visual Checks

Visual checks catch issues early and help avoid device failure during an emergency. Ensure AEDs have:

  • A lit ‘ready’ indicator
  • In-date batteries and pads
  • Intact casing and easy accessibility
  • Self-test logs accessible and clear

For more on lifetime costs and replacements, check out our guide on AED Battery and Pad Replacement.

Batteries and Pads: Expiry and Replacement

AED batteries and pads expire over time. Batteries typically last 2–7 years, and pads between 18 and 30 months. After every use, even if no shock is delivered, they must be replaced. You can explore our full range of AED batteries and pads compatible with major brands.

Expired batteries render the device unusable. Always store replacements, and ensure disposal complies with WEEE regulations to remain environmentally and legally compliant.

When to Schedule Professional Servicing

Annual servicing is considered best practice and follows manufacturer and MHRA guidance. This typically includes:

  • Full internal diagnostics
  • Speaker, button, and pad connector testing
  • Software and firmware updates

Professional check-ups confirm operational readiness and should be arranged even if no faults are detected.

Creating a Maintenance Schedule and SOP

Build a structured SOP that includes:

  • Daily checks logged via physical or digital systems
  • Monthly inspection of battery and pad expiry
  • Annual professional servicing bookings
  • Post-use actions: document event date, check device, replace consumables
  • Refresher staff training every 12 months using trusted organisations like us, we can offer AED Training solutions to cater for different industries and requirements

Keep SOPs printed near defibrillators and in digital folders for audit readiness.

Avoiding Common Maintenance Mistakes

Neglecting basic maintenance is the leading cause of AED failure. Letting pads or batteries expire, ignoring blinking error indicators, and failing to document checks are common pitfalls. Additionally, poor disposal of expired components can result in compliance issues. For inspiration on creating a truly rescue-ready environment, explore our story in ”Martyn’s Law Guide On Preparing Your Venue“.

Upgrading Your Setup: Cabinets, Signage, and Tools

Investing in visibility and accessibility is vital for defibrillator maintenance UK. Weather-rated cabinets ensure outdoor AEDs are protected. Our AED cabinets and signage keep your setup compliant and visible.

Top Defib Maintenance Tools Available

Explore our leading maintenance solutions:

  • AED Batteries and Pads: Compatible across all major models
  • Cabinets and Signage: Ensure protection and visibility

Browse our full Defib Supplies range for all components.

Defibrillator maintenance UK Checklist

  1. Conduct daily visual checks
  2. Log inspection outcomes using a tracker
  3. Replace expired parts monthly
  4. Schedule annual servicing
  5. Review documentation before audits

Build Confidence and Save Lives

Maintaining a defibrillator is about more than compliance. It demonstrates your commitment to safety, prepares your team for emergencies, and ensures your equipment won’t fail when it matters most. Whether you’re a school, business, healthcare setting, or community space, your investment in maintenance is an investment in lives.

Visit our resource centre or get in touch with our experts to discuss your defibrillator maintenance UK and compliance needs.

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