Automated External Defibrillator Devices (AEDs) at Public and Semi-Public Swimming Pools
County legislation was signed on July 6, 2012, which requires AEDs (automated external defibrillators) at all public and semi-public swimming pools in Anne Arundel County.
When do the new requirements take effect?
The law was signed and went into effect on July 6, 2012.
What must each public and semi-public swimming pool do to comply?
Each public and semi-public swimming pool must install an AED device. In addition, the AED device must be registered with the Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems (MIEMSS). AED devices must be FDA-approved and located within the same building as the public or semi-public pool. The Department of Health has set a maximum distance of 300 feet for locating an AED from an existing public or semi-public pool to ensure the AED is capable of being administered within 5 minutes.
Why is registration of the AED device necessary?
MIEMSS established the Maryland Public Access AED Program, which provides an approved list of educational training courses and refresher courses to ensure AEDs are administered appropriately. The current lifeguard training certificate issued by the American Red Cross, National Lifesaving and Aquatics, National Pool and Waterpark Training (Ellis), StarGuard or YMCA Lifeguard Training and the current CPR training certificate issued by the American Heart Association are acceptable AED training courses. The registration program is free. Registered facilities that hold a valid certificate are not civilly liable for any act or omission in the administration of the AED.
How will compliance be determined?
The Anne Arundel County Department of Health will work with public and semi-public swimming pools to make them aware of Connor’s Law and to assist each facility in complying with the new requirement. The Department of Health will make note of the new AED requirement on routine inspection reports. The public or semi-public swimming pool will be required to locate and register an AED within a period of 45 days or before the 2013 opening season. Failure to comply constitutes a violation of the Anne Arundel County Code, Section 11-14-304. The Health Officer may suspend or revoke the license to operate the public or semi-public swimming pool. If a public or semi-public swimming pool or spa needs additional time to comply, a written request may be submitted to the Health Officer at the address listed below. The request must include the specific reasons why an extension is needed.
Where can I receive additional information?
Anne Arundel County Department of Health
Environmental Health Bureau
Public Swimming Pools and Spas Program
3 Harry S. Truman Parkway
Annapolis, MD 21401
410-222-7217
Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems
Public Access Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Program
653 West Pratt Street
Baltimore, Maryland 21201-1536
410-706-4740