According to the updated Health & Safety regulations, every General Practice in South Africa must now have an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) onsite. This important change ensures immediate response to cardiac emergencies – because when it comes to saving lives, every second counts.
On 6 August 2025, one of Ventria’s representatives spoke with Ms. Loots (HSDAS) from the Office of Health Standards Compliance (OHSC) to clarify the new requirements. Below is a summary of the discussion, published with her confirmation.
Key Questions Answered
1. Does the AED requirement apply to all private General Practices, including single-doctor and shared premises?
✅ Yes.
– Whether solo or group practice, an AED is a vital measure for compliance.
2. Are specific AED types, models, or minimum specifications required?
🩺 No.
– The OHSC does not prescribe a model or brand.
– The requirement is simply: “AED or defibrillator with pads, paddles, and electrodes.”
– Any compliant AED for lay use will meet the standard.
3. Is training, maintenance, or proof of readiness required?
✅ Yes.
– AEDs must be checked monthly with a documented log.
– Staff must hold valid BLS/CPR certification (within 2 years).
– Inspection will include review of service or maintenance records.
4. Will one AED suffice for a multi-doctor practice or medical centre?
⚖️ It depends.
– One AED is sufficient if it is:
– Easily accessible to all clinical areas
– Included in the emergency trolley/bag
– Deployable within 2 minutes
– Larger premises may require more than one unit.
5. Must an AED be present during home visits, or only at the practice?
🏠 Only at the practice premises.
– The requirement applies to on-site compliance only.
– No home-visit rule exists (yet).
6. By when is this requirement enforceable?
📅 From 1 September 2025 (first upcoming audit).
– The tools are live (v1.0) and tied to 2018 Norms & Standards.
– OHSC may already inspect and score practices for AED compliance.
7. What happens if a practice does not comply?
⚠️ Serious compliance implications:
– Zero score for this vital measure
– Follow-up inspections or remedial actions
– Possible license or compliance certification risks
9. Are there any exceptions (e.g., near hospitals or emergency-equipped facilities)?
❌ No exceptions.
– An AED is required regardless of proximity to emergency services.
