Title 23
Health and Safety

Chapter 20.5
Choke-Saving

R.I. Gen. Laws § 23-20.5-2

§ 23-20.5-2. Choke-saving techniques — Obligation and liability of choke-savers.

(a) The director shall require food-service establishments to post in conspicuous locations diagrams and illustrations that demonstrate non-instrumental choke-saving techniques.

(b) Choke-saving and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) masks and gloves to protect rescuers shall be available in an accessible area of each food service establishment to ensure patrons and/or staff can access them for use with a victim within three (3) minutes from the identification of a choking incident. Patrons must be notified in a clear and conspicuous manner that said resuscitation equipment is available and its location.

(c) Except as otherwise provided by law, no person shall be obligated to remove, assist in removing, or attempt to remove, food which may become stuck in a person’s throat, nor shall any person who negligently under the circumstances removes or attempts to remove such food in an emergency be liable for any civil damages as a result of any acts or omissions by the person in rendering the emergency assistance.

History of Section.
P.L. 1975, ch. 257, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 23-54-2; P.L. 1979, ch. 39, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 23-20.5-2; P.L. 1979, ch. 7, § 1; P.L. 2006, ch. 611, § 1.