How to Maintain a Defibrillator (AED Compliance Guide Australia)

✅ Weekly or Monthly Checks

• Check the status indicator (usually green = ready)
• Ensure the AED is clean and undamaged
• Confirm pads are connected and within expiry
• Confirm battery is installed and not expired
• Ensure the device is accessible and visible
• Check cabinet (if installed) is functional

✅ After Each Use

• Replace pads immediately
• Check battery status
• Clean the device
• Download/use event data if required (for reporting/training)

✅ Scheduled Maintenance

• Replace pads before expiry (typically every 2–5 years)
• Replace batteries as required (2–5 years depending on model)
• Follow manufacturer servicing recommendations

How Often Should You Check an AED?

• Workplaces: weekly or monthly (recommended)
• Low-use environments: monthly checks are typically sufficient
• High-risk environments: more frequent checks may be required

👉 Best practice: assign responsibility to a specific person or team.

Storage Requirements (Critical for Compliance)

AEDs must be stored:

• In a visible and accessible location
• Within safe temperature ranges
• Protected from dust, moisture, and damage

Indoor vs Outdoor Storage

• Indoor: standard wall cabinet or bracket
• Outdoor: weatherproof and often heated cabinet required

Record Keeping (Often Overlooked)

For workplaces and organisations, keeping records is essential.

You should track:

• Inspection dates
• Pad expiry dates
• Battery expiry dates
• Any maintenance or replacements

👉 This is particularly important for:

• Workplaces
• Schools and childcare centres
• Public access AEDs

Workplace Compliance in Australia

While AEDs are not mandatory in all workplaces, if you have one:

👉 You are responsible for ensuring it is:

• Functional
• Maintained
• Accessible

Workplace expectations (aligned with WHS best practice):

• Regular inspection
• Clear signage
• Staff awareness of location
• Inclusion in emergency response planning
• Consider adding “How to Use a Defib” awareness video as part of staff onboarding

Common Maintenance Mistakes

Avoid these common issues:

❌ Not checking pad expiry dates
❌ Battery not replaced until failure
❌ AED stored in hard-to-access location
❌ No assigned responsibility for checks
❌ Child pads missing when required

👉 These are surprisingly common — and easily preventable.

Choosing an AED with Low Maintenance

Some AEDs are designed to minimise maintenance:

• Longer-life pads and batteries
• Self-check systems
• Universal pads (no need for separate child pads)

👉 This reduces:

• Ongoing cost
• Administrative burden
• Risk of error

Maintenance Cost Considerations

Typical costs include:

• Pads: $80–$300 (every 2–5 years)
• Batteries: $90–$1,300 (every 2–5 years)
• Cabinets (if applicable): one-off cost

👉 Choosing the right AED can significantly reduce long-term maintenance costs.

FAQs

How do I know if my AED is working?
Check the status indicator — most devices display a green light or symbol when ready.

Do AEDs require servicing?
Most modern AEDs are self-monitoring but still require regular checks and component replacement.

What happens if pads expire?
Expired pads may not function correctly and should be replaced immediately.

Who is responsible for AED maintenance in a workplace?
Typically a designated staff member, first aid officer, or safety coordinator.

Final Recommendation

To ensure your defibrillator is always ready:

👉 Perform regular checks
👉 Track expiry dates
👉 Store it correctly
👉 Assign responsibility

If you want to minimise maintenance:

👉 Choose an AED with long-life components and simple operation

Explore Low-Maintenance Defibrillators

Looking for an AED that’s easy to maintain and reliable?

👉 Shop Defibrillators at First Aid Kits Australia
👉 View Models with Long-Life Pads & Batteries
👉 Best Defibrillators in Australia (2026 Guide)