New law requires lifesaving AEDs at electric utility worksites across Pennsylvania
Harrisburg, PA – Governor Josh Shapiro has signed legislation sponsored by Senator Nick Pisciottano (D-Allegheny) to improve workplace safety for Pennsylvania’s electric utility workers by requiring access to lifesaving Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) at utility worksites, including on work vehicles serving temporary and mobile worksites.
Senate Bill 1328 creates the Utility Worksite Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Safety Act. The legislation received overwhelming bipartisan support in the General Assembly, passing the Senate by a vote of 47-2 and the House by a vote of 197-6.
“Requiring access to AEDs on worksites is a common-sense, low-cost policy that could mean the difference between life and death during an emergency,” said Senator Pisciottano. “Cardiac arrest is a well-known risk in electrical line work, and when it occurs, every second matters.”
Under the new law, utilities must also ensure that at least two employees trained in CPR and AED use are present at each worksite, provide that training at no cost to employees, and maintain AEDs in accordance with manufacturer guidelines. The law also provides Good Samaritan liability protections for individuals who use AEDs in good faith during an emergency.
Sudden cardiac arrest is a serious risk in electrical linework, where workers face hazards including electrical shock, significant heights, extreme physical exertion, and severe weather. Immediate access to an AED can significantly improve a person’s chance of survival, particularly in remote areas where emergency medical assistance may be delayed.