Adrenaline devices (ADs) in school: guidance

Find advice on keeping spare adrenaline devices in school, including how to buy, store and dispose of adrenaline auto-injectors (AAIs).

Updated
on 16 July 2026
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School types: AllSchool phases: AllRef: 34038
Contents
  1. What is an adrenaline device?
  2. Pupils with prescribed ADs should carry 2 with them at all times
  3. Buy spare ADs for use in an emergency
  4. How to buy, store, maintain and dispose of spare ADs
  5. Train your staff to administer ADs
  6. Taking ADs on school trips
  7. Include procedures for ADs in your allergy safety policy

This article is based on the DfE's statutory allergy safety guidance and the guidance on using AAIs in schools from the Department of Health and Social Care.

What is an adrenaline device?

An adrenaline device (AD) is used in an emergency to treat someone suffering from a life-threatening allergic reaction (known as anaphylaxis).

ADs are designed to be administered by the person experiencing anaphylaxis themselves. However, if they're unable to do so, anyone can give adrenaline using an AD.

Anaphylaxis is always a medical emergency and needs to be treated in hospital. You must call 999 without delay after the person has received adrenaline.

Adrenaline auto-injectors (AAIs) AAIs are designed to inject adrenaline into the outer thigh. You might have heard AAIs referred to by their brand names: EpiPen or Jext. There are some key differences in how the 2 brands are used – see the manufacturer's websites for instructions and demonstration videos:  EpiPen Jext Instructions are also printed