Your guide to AED testing: Annual Performance Verification

16 July 2026

AEDs continually monitor themselves through automatic self-tests.

These built-in tests check internal electronics, monitor battery status, and identify some hardware faults. Self-tests are an automated internal process, and if faults are identified, they are generally displayed through visual icons or indicator lights, and/or through audible prompts.

While these built-in checks are valuable, they cannot confirm every aspect of the device's real world performance.

Self-test can only confirm the device detects faults within its own systems, it can't verify every aspect of real-world performance. A status indicator light is not a guarantee that the AED will shock. That means self-tests alone aren't enough to guarantee your AED will work when it's needed.

For the highest level of assurance, Heart Saver recommends every AED undergoes Annual Performance Verification.

What is Annual Performance Verification?

Annual Performance Verification is carried out by trained experts using specialised defibrillator analysers. It independently verifies the AED's operational performance, including critical functions that cannot be confirmed by the device's own automatic self-tests.

AED Self-Test

Checks internal electronics
Monitors battery status
Identifies some hardware faults
Automated internal process
Provides status light only

Performance Verification

Verifies actual operational performance
Tests battery readiness under load
Verifies shock delivery accuracy
Independent external verification
Detailed documented test report

Why this matters more now

Australian legislation has been tightening around public access AEDs, with South Australia's mandatory requirements setting the tone for where compliance expectations are heading.

At the same time, businesses across Australia and New Zealand are increasingly adopting formal AED maintenance programmes as part of their workplace health and safety responsibilities.

WorkSafe authorities and industry guidance increasingly emphasise the importance of maintaining AEDs and keeping records of inspections and servicing.

Regular AED performance verification demonstrates that devices are being actively maintained and represents a proactive approach to risk management and emergency preparedness.

If you're responsible for an AED, whether that's a workplace, a school, a gym, or a community centre, performance verification gives you the highest level of confidence that your unit is ready to go when it's needed most.

Be ready when it matters most

Regular testing and maintenance provides peace of mind that your AED is ready to perform when a life depends on it.

At Heart Saver, we help businesses, schools, organisations and communities across New Zealand ensure their defibrillators are ready to respond in an emergency.

From AED supply and installation to replacement pads and batteries, regular checks, and ongoing support, our goal is simple: make sure every AED works when it’s needed most.

Talk to our team to book your Annual Performance Verification today.

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Combined with regular automated self-checks, Annual Performance Verification is your best assurance that your AED is ready to perform.
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