American Heart Month 2027

What is American Heart Month?

American Heart Month is observed every February to raise awareness of heart disease and how to prevent it. The American Heart Association and federal health agencies use the month to promote heart health, recognizing the signs of heart attack and stroke, and learning CPR.

Why it matters for workplaces

Sudden cardiac arrest can happen anywhere, including on the job, and survival depends on how quickly someone starts CPR and uses an AED. OSHA's medical and first aid standard requires employers to have people adequately trained to give first aid when there is no infirmary, clinic or hospital in near proximity to the workplace.

Ways to take part

1. Check your first aid coverage. Confirm you have trained responders on every shift and at every site.
2. Map and inspect your AEDs. Make sure everyone knows where they are and that pads and batteries are in date.
3. Teach the warning signs. Share the common signs of heart attack and stroke and when to call 911.
4. Run a hands-only CPR refresher. A short session can build confidence for people who have never trained.
5. Support healthy habits. Promote breaks, movement and wellness resources, especially for shift workers.

Frequently Asked Questions: American Heart Month

When is American Heart Month?

It runs for the whole month of February every year.

Are workplaces required to have an AED?

There is no general federal OSHA requirement for AEDs in every workplace, but some states and industries have their own rules. Many employers choose to install them because they can save lives in the minutes before emergency services arrive.