Latvian Cabinet Regulation No. 481 · Section 9.² of the Latvian Medical Treatment Law
AEDs mandatory in Latvia from 2026
From 1 January 2026, public places in Latvia where more than 1,500 people are present at the same time must have at least 2 AEDs. Check whether the Latvian requirements apply to you and what exactly needs to be done.
This is how quickly an AED must be able to reach the patient from anywhere on the site.
1-minute check
Is an AED mandatory at your site in Latvia?
Select how many people can be present in your public place at the same time.
An AED is not mandatory, but strongly recommended
In smaller sites – offices, shops, gyms – an AED is not required, but sudden cardiac arrest can happen anywhere. One AED and trained staff can make the difference between life and death.
- Recommended: 1 AED in a visible place
- Staff training
At least 1 AED
In Latvia, public places where 701–1,500 people are present at the same time will need at least one AED from 2028. Prepare in good time – procurement and training take time.
- At least 1 AED, reachable within 5 minutes
- EN ISO 7010 signs and a first-aid kit
At least 2 AEDs
Since 1 January 2026, public places in Latvia where more than 1,500 people are present at the same time must provide at least two AEDs. Typical sites: shopping centres, sports arenas, concert halls, airports, stations and large production plants.
- At least 2 AEDs – each reachable within 5 minutes
- Signs, regular checks and notifying the State Agency of Medicines (ZVA)
AEDs for educational institutions
Since 1 September 2025, educational institutions in Latvia have been provided with defibrillators funded by the state. It is important that the device is correctly placed and that teachers know how to use it.
- AED with child mode
- Teacher training – AED for schools
Deadlines
Who needs an AED in Latvia, and when
The figure refers to the number of people who can be present in the public place at the same time.
- 2025
Educational institutions
From 1 September – state-funded AEDs.
- 2026
More than 1,500 people
From 1 January – at least 2 AEDs.
- 2028
701–1,500 people
At least 1 AED.
Up to 700 people – voluntary but recommended. Compliance is supervised by the Health Inspectorate of Latvia.
Owner's obligations
5 things you need to do
Buying the device is not enough – the AED must be easy to find, ready for use and registered.
- 01
Placement within 5 minutes
The AED must be placed so that it can be brought to the patient within 5 minutes – by the entrance, reception or main corridor.
- 02
EN ISO 7010 signs
The AED location and the route to it must be marked with the international sign.
AED signs - 03
First-aid kit
A first-aid kit must be provided next to the AED.
First aid - 04
Quarterly check
A responsible person checks the device once a quarter and documents each check.
- 05
Notifying ZVA
Within one month of installation, the AED must be reported to the State Agency of Medicines of Latvia (ZVA).
Would you like us to take care of it?
Placement plan, signs, training, ZVA notification and expiry reminders – all in one quote.
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Checklist
Is your site ready?
Tick off what has already been done. The list is stored only in your browser – you can also print it and give it to the responsible person.
How we help
From choice to compliance
- 1
Consultation
We assess your site and footfall, then recommend the right device and location so the AED can be reached within 5 minutes.
- 2
Placement advice
We advise on the best location and mounting – wall bracket or cabinet – and on EN ISO 7010 signs.
- 3
Training
Hands-on training for your staff in Latvian, with a training defibrillator and a manikin.
- 4
Documentation
In Latvia, we help you notify the State Agency of Medicines (ZVA) and keep an inspection log in line with Latvian Cabinet Regulation No. 481.
- 5
Maintenance
We remind you before pads and batteries expire and supply genuine spare parts from stock.
FAQ
Common questions about the Latvian requirements
Not sure? Call +371 20 913 911 – we will assess your site free of charge.
Who checks that the requirements are met?
In Latvia, compliance is supervised by the Health Inspectorate.
Can AED maintenance be outsourced?
Yes. Installation and maintenance may be outsourced. We help with the placement plan, signs, training and notifying ZVA, and remind you when pads and batteries expire.
How often must an AED be checked?
The responsible person must check the device once a quarter and document the checks. Most AEDs also run automatic self-tests.
Where is the best place for an AED?
In a visible, easily accessible place from which it can be brought to the patient within 5 minutes – by the entrance, reception, lifts or sports hall. For outdoor placement in the Latvian climate you need a heated cabinet.
Which defibrillator should I choose?
For public places we recommend the fully automatic iPAD CU-SP1. A comparison of all models is available here.
This article is for information only and describes Latvian law. For the exact requirements see Latvian Cabinet Regulation No. 481 on likumi.lv (in Latvian). Published 20.10.2026.
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