Does Bft require its franchisees to have an automated external defibrillator on the premises?
Bft Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Some states require that health/fitness facilities have a staff person available during all hours of operation that is certified in basic cardiopulmonary resuscitation or other specialized medical training. Some state or local laws may also require that health/fitness facilities have an automated external defibrillator and/or other first aid equipment on the premises. Certain states and local governments have passed laws relating specifically to health and fitness facilities, including laws requiring bonds if a health and fitness facility sells memberships valid for more than a specified time period, requiring facility owners to deposit into escrow certain amounts collected from members before the facility opens (so-called "presale" memberships) and imposing other restrictions on memberships that health and fitness facilities sell. At a minimum, your Studio will be subject to various federal, state and local laws, and regulations affecting the business, including laws relating to membership agreements, zoning, access for the disabled, and safety and fire standards. You may need the local fire marshals or other local, state or federal agency's permission before you begin operations. In addition, there may be local licensing and employment regulations, including worker's compensation insurance requirements.
Source: Item 1 — THE FRANCHISOR, ANY PARENTS, PREDECESSORS AND AFFILIATES (FDD pages 7–12)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Bft's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, whether or not a franchisee is required to have an automated external defibrillator (AED) on the premises depends on state and local laws. The FDD states that some state or local laws may require health/fitness facilities to have an AED and/or other first aid equipment on the premises.
This means that a prospective Bft franchisee must investigate the specific regulations in their area to determine if an AED is mandated. It is crucial to check both state and local ordinances, as the requirements can vary significantly. Even if not legally required, a franchisee might consider having an AED for safety and liability reasons, as well as for the well-being of their members.
Beyond AED requirements, the FDD also mentions that some states require a staff person to be certified in basic cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) or other specialized medical training during all hours of operation. Furthermore, franchisees must comply with various federal, state, and local laws and regulations affecting the business, including those related to membership agreements, zoning, access for the disabled, and safety and fire standards. Therefore, franchisees need to be aware of and prepared to meet all applicable legal requirements to operate their Bft studio.