Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) can strike anywhere, anytime, often without warning. Each year, 356,000 people in the U.S. experience an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest, and nearly 90% don’t survive. The difference between life and death often comes down to how quickly bystanders respond.

The problem? Most workplaces aren’t prepared. Without a clear plan, precious minutes are lost. Minutes that could save a life. A Cardiac Emergency Response Plan (CERP) ensures employees know exactly what to do, where to find an AED, and how to act fast.

This article explores why every workplace needs a CERP, the American Heart Association’s recommendations, and how Illinois’ new legislation is leading the way in cardiac emergency preparedness in schools.

What Is a Cardiac Emergency Response Plan (CERP)?

A Cardiac Emergency Response Plan is a structured approach to improving survival rates in cases of sudden cardiac arrest. It goes beyond simply owning an AED, it ensures that employees know how to recognize an SCA, respond immediately, and use life-saving equipment effectively.

A strong CERP includes:

• A Cardiac Emergency Response Team (CERT) made of a group of trained staff members responsible for responding to cardiac events.

• Strategically placed AEDs that can be readily brought to the victim, and pads placed within 3 minutes of a collapse.

• CPR and AED training for employees, ensuring confidence in an emergency.

• Regular drills and plan evaluations to test readiness and make improvements.

Every second matters in a cardiac emergency, and the right plan ensures a swift, coordinated response. But what does expert guidance say about workplace preparedness?

The American Heart Association’s Recommendations

The AHA emphasizes that workplaces must be prepared for sudden cardiac arrest because bystander intervention is often the deciding factor in survival. Their key recommendations include:

• Hands-Only CPR Training: The AHA promotes hands-only CPR for non-medical personnel, making it easier for employees to act quickly.

• Rapid AED Access: AEDs should be retrievable within 3–5 minutes and stored in visible, unlocked locations.

• Emergency Action Plans: Workplaces should integrate their CERP with local EMS to ensure a smooth handoff when professional responders arrive.

The AHA’s recommendations highlight best practices, but some states are taking it a step further and requiring workplaces and schools to implement structured cardiac emergency plans.

Illinois’ New Law on Cardiac Emergency Response Plans

Illinois has taken a major step in prioritizing workplace and school safety with House Bill 5394, which requires all school districts to implement a CERP starting in the 2024–2025 school year. The law mandates:

• A publicly accessible emergency response plan for sudden cardiac arrest.

• AED placement and clear protocols for use.

• Annual staff training on CPR and AED use.

Even in states and industries without legal mandates, ignoring cardiac emergency preparedness can lead to serious consequences, like legal liability, reputational damage, and, most importantly, preventable loss of life. So how can businesses, schools, and organizations proactively meet these standards and protect their people?

How FC Safety Helps Organizations Implement a Strong CERP

Cardiac emergencies are unpredictable, but preparation isn’t. FC Safety provides end-to-end solutions to help organizations stay compliant, reduce risk, and ensure readiness:

• AED Devices & Program Management: Real-time AED tracking, maintenance alerts, and state-specific compliance support.

• CPR & AED Training: OSHA-compliant, Red Cross-certified training, available virtually or on-site.

• Emergency Preparedness Consulting: CERP development, hands-on drills, and ongoing program improvement.

Don’t wait for a crisis to expose gaps in your emergency response. Contact FC Safety today to protect your team and ensure compliance.