Seattle Public Schools

3412 Automated External Defibrillators

The Seattle School Board recognizes that equipping sites with automated external defibrillators (AEDs) and training employees and students in their use, increases the potential to save lives in the event of a health emergency, including cardiac arrest. The Board authorizes the district to place AEDs at designated district sites. 

The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) requires that any person using an AED receive training. Therefore, schools and district facilities with an AED on site will designate and train selected staff in the use of AEDs according to the DOH guidelines. Student instruction in cardiopulmonary resuscitations, to include appropriate use of an AED, will occur in at least one health class necessary for graduation.

This policy does not create any implied, or express, guarantee or obligation to use an AED, nor does it create an expectation that an AED or a trained employee or student will be present, even if a condition arose that made the use of an AED beneficial.

A person who uses an AED at the scene of an emergency and all other persons and entities providing services are immune from civil liability for any personal injury that results from any act or omission in the use of the AED in an emergency setting, unless the acts or omissions amount to gross negligence or willful or wanton misconduct.

The Superintendent or their designee will develop procedures for the placement, maintenance, and use of AEDs in schools.