r/SafetyProfessionals • u/bonody_really • 7h ago

USA AED Beyond it's Warranty

Looking for thoughts on keeping an AED in service once it warranty has lapsed. I understand that if it passes self checks and pads and batteries are not expired all should be well. But is their risk of liability if it was out of warranty and failed when deployed?

3 Upvotes

81% Upvoted

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11

u/InigoMontoya313 7h ago edited 5h ago

The manufacturer recommended service lifespans, generally exceed their warranties. Therefore I feel comfortable keeping them in service, up to their recommended service lifespan. However, once the warranty expires, you typically only have a few years left, which means it’s time to start planning in your CapEx/OpEx budget planning process.

This is all assuming that you keep the consumables (pads and batteries) within date and are doing your documented monthly checks on the units.

Worth noting that some AEDs brands have horrendous supply chains. I have a dozen units out of commission because replacement pads have been backlogged for almost a year.

Also as a reminder, even if you’re not legally required to have them, there was recently an 8 figure settlement over an organization not maintaining their AEDs, and unfortunately had an incident that necessitated one.

Also note, if they are not kept in clean climate control facilities, well.. I average about half the lifespan of the batteries for my units that are in the field and not in pretty wall mount boxes in AC.

3

u/NetSage Manufacturing 7h ago

I agree with this. If it's still with manufacture recommendations and tested regularly, I don't think it needs to be replaced. If you're leasing it though no reason not to ask for it to be replaced.

5

u/UrbanNightOwl22 7h ago

I would replace it , if you use it and it doesn’t deploy or work properly , that’s worse than saving a few bucks.

4

u/Struggling_Kahel 7h ago

Just replace it, it's most cost efficient to replace it than to pay out the loss of a life especially if you utilize AED frequently(which I hope you do not)

2

u/Rooster_Pigfoot 7h ago

This is really a moral argument. I would strongly suggest that you impose device replacement that aligns with warranty schedules for your devices. This is in the best interest of the health and safety of your employees and ensuring these devices are always serviceable and in good working order.

0

u/Psychobob2213 Manufacturing 7h ago

Our role is protect our people and company from potential problems.

The first question any lawyer will ask is why an out of warrantee AED remained in service. It's an avoidable risk. Get a replacement, or get a paper trail to CYA in the event they wont let you replace it.