Frequently Asked Questions
New Broward County Fire Code for AED & BCK Requirements
fill out the form below to receive your Frequently Asked Questions PDF
Always consult with your local Fire Officials for specific city code requirements and updates!
Broward
Frequently asked questions
New Broward County Fire Code for AED & BCK Requirements
What’s changed with the fire code?
There are many details but at a high-level the Broward County Amendments to the Florida Fire Prevention Code (“FFPC”) now requires “all new and existing buildings”, as defined in the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) 101, Life Safety Code, to install AEDs and BCKs. The same, or similar, code amendments may be implemented to Counties across Florida and Nationally.
What is an AED?
An AED stands for “Automatic External Defibrillator.” It is a portable medical device used to analyze a person’s heart rhythm and, if necessary, deliver an electrical shock to restore a normal heart rhythm in cases of sudden cardiac arrest. They are readily visible in all airports and many public buildings.
What is a BCK?
A BCK stands for “Bleeding Control Kit.” It is essentially an advanced first aid kit, specifically designed for managing bleeding in emergency situations (think mass shootings – sadly). It distinguishes itself from a standard first aid kit by including items such as tourniquets and specialized large wound gauze.
Why did they add these amendments?
A BCK stands for “Bleeding Control Kit.” It is essentially an advanced first aid kit, specifically designed for managing bleeding in emergency situations (think mass shootings – sadly). It distinguishes itself from a standard first aid kit by including items such as tourniquets and specialized large wound gauze.
The founder of Rescue Beat (Bill Amirault) is one of the extremely fortunate 7% SCA survivors, and why he has made it a life mission to pay it forward by setting a goal to bring CPR and AED awareness to 1 million people and providing free training classes to all Rescue Beats clients and for many others.
Additionally, with the rise of mass-shooting incidents, the extra trauma supplies included in the BCKs could significantly aid bystanders and first responders attending to any victims of such incidents.
Who does it affect?
New Broward County Fire Code for AED & BCK Requirements
All new and existing buildings meeting defined criteria in Broward County. Specific rules apply to each occupancy type, which are defined in the Florida Fire Code, but here is a high-level list:
- Multi-story residential buildings with 5 or more floors.
- All hotels and motels.
- Commercial and retail spaces with a square footage greater than 35,000 sq. ft.
- Fitness centers, gymnasiums, and indoor rec centers exceeding 1,500 sq. ft.
- Any assembly occupancy with a capacity of 100 or more people.
- Places of worship with a capacity of 100 or more people.
- Office buildings/business occupancies w/square footage greater than 20,000 sq. ft.
- All dental offices in accordance with Florida Administrative Code 6485-17.015.
- All adult day care facilities.
- All charter and private schools.
- Assisted living facilities as defined by section 429.021(5) of the Florida Statute.
- Ambulatory surgical centers as defined by section 395.002(3) of the Florida Statute.
- Walk-in medical care facilities.
- Hospitals providing emergency services, excluding freestanding facilities.
When is the deadline for compliance?
The effective date for compliance is June 2024. Meaning, all fire inspections after this date will fail and a warning will be issued to any facilities not in compliance with the new code. Enforcement will follow.
How many AED/BCK’s do I need for my business/building?
Requirements vary depending on the business type, capacity, building size, etc. Some buildings may only require only require one AED/BCK, while others may require several. The quantity of BCKs and their required contents do vary depending on the size of the building or facility and its occupancy load/type. We recommend reviewing the code and consulting with local city fire officials for your specific building requirements.
How much do they cost?
Price varies based on the reseller, equipment (model, features), package contents, installation, training, etc., but you should expect to pay at least $2500 for a single starter AED/BCK (plus some overhead costs). Large occupancy BCKs will be more expensive due to their required contents. We recommend budgeting at least $3000 per device to help with accessories, installation, training, maintenance, etc. There are less expensive refurbished AEDs, more expensive ‘smart’ AEDs or more all-inclusive packages available, depending on your needs. The available features can get complicated and overwhelming
I need to comply now, but I don’t have the budget to purchase the required equipment. What can I do?
You may be able to rent equipment until you get the budget to purchase or finance the equipment to make smaller payments over time.
What’s in a typical package?
It can vary significantly depending on where you buy it. Most packages sold online do not comply with the new code requirements, especially the BCKs. The packages we sell are specifically made to comply with the new fire code rules. What’s inside can change based on the type of building or business. For instance, our kits always have at least the AED, BCK, the proper wall cabinet, signage, and a BCK with the appropriate number of tourniquets, gauze, gloves, stickers for your building size.
Most kits/packages sold online do not meet the specific minimum BCK code requirements defined in section F-121.3.4, 5 & 6.
Who is responsible for installing them?
It is the responsibility of the owner/occupant to install AED devices and BCKs in accordance with the guidelines
Who is responsible for maintaining them?
The owner/occupant is responsible for maintaining AED devices and BCKs in accordance with manufacturer-recommended maintenance requirements and as required by the guidelines.
Rescue Beats offers maintenance services and/or guidance for owners and staff.
What are the training requirements?
Training is no longer required with the latest revision of the code (04/2024). We strongly feel there is a need for at least some basic awareness/refresher training for CPR and the usage of AEDs and Tourniquets.
Rescue Beats provides FREE training awareness classes to clients that purchase supplies from us. We are also an authorized CPR and First Aid training center and offer a variety of training and certification courses
Can I just buy and install them myself (or my maintenance crew)?
“At the discretion of the AHJ, the implementation of an AED and BCK shall occur only after a written notification is made to the Fire Chief or designee by the individual, entity, organization, or company acquiring an AED.” Specific details are required in the written notification. There are also many installation requirements defined in the code, so careful attention to location, signage, cabinet requirements, etc. is strongly recommended.
Rescue Beats offers installation planning and assistance and notification assistance, as needed, with the purchase of our equipment.
Which equipment should I purchase?
The AED features, accessories and BCKs are endless and can be very technical and confusing. Some important things to consider are:Do they comply with the code for your business/building?
- Would you rather pay a little more now for a lower cost of ownership long term
- (battery life, maintenance, etc.) or less now, but higher costs over time?
- Would you like a self-monitoring device, or do you have the ability to monitor and inspect them?
- OCTOBER 2024 WWWWW.RESCUEBEATSPRO.COM 954-947-5060
- Would a device that has multi-lingual audible instructions be helpful in your building?
- Do you want fully or semi-automatic devices? Do you know what that means?
- Does the BCK have all the required items and counts?
What are the specifics for the actual equipment needed?
Specific equipment requirements vary but are outlined in the amended guidelines. Depending on the occupancy type, the number of units, locations, kit contents, signage will vary.
Do I need to run any new electrical to support them?
No, the AEDs are battery operated and do not require any electrical power. The only installation overhead is installing the cabinet(s) and signage where required.
Do I have to keep records for inspections and maintenance?
Yes, although the amendment doesn’t explicitly detail record-keeping procedures, it does state that you must follow the manufacturer’s recommendation. Many manufacturers require regular inspections with recordkeeping. Additionally, there is real liability exposure if devices are not maintained with proof of regular inspections, so we strongly recommend having an implementation plan that includes this or purchasing AEDs that are self-monitoring to eliminate some of that process.
Rescue Beats includes maintenance hang tags with every AED we sell/install.
Do the AEDs expire?
Yes, there is shelf life to all products. Of course, this varies by product and manufacturer. Most standard AEDs have a battery life of 4-6 years, many have replaceable batteries. The AED electrode pads (sticky pad placed on the victim) also have a shelf life of 2-4 years. And like any first aid kit, the BCKs will also have a shelf life and need periodic maintenance/replacement.
Rescue Beats will notify you before any products expire, making sure you have enough time to refresh components before your next fire inspection.
Am I immune from civil liability?
Yes, however there are specific conditions for immunity, and the law’s application varies based on your role, such as an individual, community association, or healthcare provider. It’s crucial to thoroughly review and comprehend the law and its relevance to your situation or business.
Florida has two specific statutes in place to encourage civilian assistance during emergencies and safeguard those who offer such help. These statutes grant immunity from civil liability in situations involving the use of an AED device or when providing emergency care or treatment (like CPR and First Aid), aiming to protect those who step in to help in times of need.
http://www.leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0700-0799/0768/Sections/0768.1325.html
Scan the QR code or use the link below to read the “Good Samaritan Act” F.S. 768.13 statute:
http://www.leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0700-0799/0768/Sections/0768.13.html
What happens if we use the AED or BCK in an emergency situation?
Any person who uses an AED should contact the AHJ (Authority Having Jurisdiction) by calling 9-1-1 immediately prior to or immediately upon use of the AED. The AHJ may conduct a quality assurance review after the use of an AED or BCK.
What else should I know about this?
As of this writing there are no established means to request an extension to comply
with the June 2024 deadline.
Annual fire inspections now encompass compliance with these code amendments. Comparable to fire suppression, egress, emergency lighting, and other elements, the responsible party will be required to demonstrate adherence to the codes. Failure to do so may result in the issuance of a Notice of Violation to the building owner, fines, etc.
Heroes reunited with Bill on the Harry Show – YouTube
Where can I find the actual amendments and code requirements?
https://library.municode.com/fl/broward_county_board_of_rules_and_appeals/codes/the_florida_fire_prevention_code?nodeId=BRCOLOAMFLFIPRCO_SF-121AUEXDEAEBLCOKIBC
Note:
Please be aware that the information provided in this document represents our interpretation of the changes and an effort to address frequently asked questions. This document is not a legal resource and should not be considered a substitute for local regulations. It’s essential to recognize that specific details may differ and may be subject to change. For accurate information and compliance in your area, we strongly recommend consulting with your local Fire Officials.