What is an AED and Where are They Located on Campus?

An automated external defibrillator (AED) is a portable device that analyzes the heart's rhythm and, if necessary, allows a rescuer to deliver an electric shock to a victim of sudden cardiac arrest. This shock, called defibrillation, may halt the rapid and chaotic heart activity of sudden cardiac arrest, and help the heart to reestablish an effective rhythm of its own.

AEDs are used in conjunction with cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in order to regain breathing and heart beat in a person who has collapsed from a heart attack, shock, or choking. If the person is unconscious, using an AED is one of the best methods to restart the heart muscle.

AEDs are available in a variety of campus locations, including recreation and entertainment venues, dining and shopping facilities, library and meeting areas. See the AED Locator Interactive Map for a list of on and off- campus AED locations. If you need to update the location of your department's AED please send the following information to ehs-aed@ucsb.edu: Old AED Location, New AED Location, AED Make/Model, Primary AED Contact Name, and transfer date.

Useful Links

Who Can Use an AED?

Phillips AED Unit

Any person who, in good faith and not for compensation, renders emergency care or treatment by the use of an AED at the scene of an emergency is not liable for any civil damages resulting from any acts or omissions in rendering the emergency care. These rescuers are called Volunteer Responders. Volunteer Responders have legal protection by the ‘Good Samaritan Law’ when using the AED in good faith to help a victim of sudden cardiac arrest.

Training and Use Demonstrations

If placed in a building, building occupants must be notified at least once per year of the AED location(s) and who to contact if they want to voluntarily take AED or CPR training (HSC§1797.196). CPR/AED training is offered on campus through the Department of Recreation. The American Red Cross and the American Heart Association offer local in-person and online courses as well. Training and use demonstration videos for campus AEDs are also available below:

 

Cardiac Science AED Unit

AED Purchasing, Inspections, Maintenance and Compliance

At UCSB AED equipment is on the restricted commodities list and must be reviewed and approved by EH&S. In general, AED equipment on campus is department owned and maintained. It is the equipment owner's responsibility to ensure that the AED is maintained and tested according to the operation and maintenance guidelines set forth by the manufacturer. However, EH&S does provide monthly inspection reminders and additional support upon request. All inspection, maintenance, training, and compliance responsibilities and costs are the responsibility of the equipment owner.

For questions or additional information, please contact the AED Program Administrator at ehs-aed@ucsb.edu.

AED Training / Demonstration