How to Dispose of an AED… Properly

Have you ever been curious about how to dispose of an AED? 

If you’ve ever had to get rid of an automated external defibrillator due to damage, expiry, or you’ve simply purchased a new one, then this question has likely crossed your mind.

When an AED is no longer needed, it must be disposed of properly in order to prevent any harm to people or the environment. 

Let’s discuss. 

Are There Different Disposal Rules for Each AED Component?

In short, yes. 

In fact, did you know that parts of an AED are considered hazardous waste? That’s why understanding how to dispose of an AED by each component is important. 

AED Electrodes

Because the majority of both adult and child AED pads contain circuit-like parts, they should not be landfilled. 

Instead, AED electrodes should be recycled using a participating electronic recycling depot. 

AED Battery

Philips AEDs, and most other rechargeable and non-rechargeable AEDs, use some form of lithium battery. 

Lithium batteries contain a flammable electrolyte that can result in fire or even explosions if they are damaged or exposed to heat. Moreover, a punctured lithium battery could leak corrosive material into the environment. Therefore, lithium batteries are deemed “hazardous waste” and should never be disposed of like regular trash. 

For this reason, AED batteries should always be taken to an electronics waste recycler. 

AED Device

You can think of the actual AED machine like a computer. 

Computers shouldn’t go into the trash.

AED devices are filled with electronic parts, which is known as “electronic waste” at the end of their life-cycle. 

Like AED electrodes and batteries, all AED machines that are at the end of their service life should be disposed of using an electronics recycling facility. 

Where to Recycle Your AED

When it comes time to dispose of your AED, we always recommend checking your city’s online waste directory for details, as many will have a disposal search tool available for you to use. 

For example, the City of Calgary has instructions specifically for digital medical equipment. They outline that AEDs should be taken to specific electronic drop-offs and they also provide a convenient map of those drop-offs. 

Questions about recycling your AED? Contact us.

In addition to keeping yourself and others safe through owning an AED, we also believe in keeping our planet safe. 

By knowing how to dispose of an AED and adhering to proper AED disposal rules and regulations in your community, you’ll be able to do just that! 

Looking to replace an old AED at home? Grab our HeartStart In-Home AED!