Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs)
In March 2005, the New York City Council enacted Local Law 20, requiring the placement of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in certain public places. Read on to understand this new law and the regulations created by the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (NYC DOHMH) to implement it.
Out of hospital sudden cardiac arrest is responsible for an estimated 160,000 deaths a year nationally. When caused by an abnormal heart rhythm, sudden cardiac arrest need not result in death if the heart can be shocked quickly with a defibrillator and a normal rhythm restored. When properly used, an automated external defibrillator (AED) performs an analysis of the heart rhythm, determines if defibrillation is required and, if needed, delivers an electrical shock.
Local Law 20 took effect on July 5, 2005. The NYC DOHMH issued rules to implement this new law in November 2005. Local Law 20 and the DOHMH rules state that any required AED be acquired, possessed and operated in accordance with New York State Public Health Law § 3000-b, which requires training and registration of the devices with the Regional Emergency Medical Services Council of New York City, Inc. (REMSCO-NYC) before they can be used by non-health care professionals.
This webpage contains documents that can help determine if an entity is required by Local Law 20 and its DOHMH regulations to obtain an AED, as well as links for additional information and resources.
Local Law 20 also sought to require that health clubs having a membership of at least 250 members make available an AED(s). Health clubs were defined in Local Law 20 as including but not being limited to "health spas, health studios, gymnasiums, weight control studios, martial arts and self defense schools or any other commercial establishment offering a similar course of physical training." However, Section 631 of the New York State General Business Law (“GBL”) was found to preempt the Local Law 20 health club requirement. New York State law, specifically Section 627-a of the GBL, which went into effect on July 20, 2005, does require the placement of AEDs in health clubs statewide with membership ≥500. Therefore, while Local Law 20 does not apply to health clubs, and other types of physical activity centers listed above, the State law does apply and must be followed.
To file a complaint against a health club facility for not having a required AED, contact the New York State Attorney General's Office, Consumer Affairs and Fraud Protection Bureau. The Attorney General's New York City Regional Office can be contacted at (212)-416-8830, or by mail at:
New York State Attorney General
Consumer Affairs and Fraud Protection Bureau
120 Broadway, 3rd Floor
New York, NY 10271-0332
Obtain a form (PDF) to file a complaint against a health club facility for not having a required AED.
New York City Laws and Regulations
New York State Laws and Regulations
Additional Resources:
Registering your AED with REMSCO
Training
More information on Public Access Defibrillation
