Ontario Makes AEDs Mandatory on Construction Sites — Here’s What You Need to Know
Starting January 1, 2026, the Ontario government will require automatic external defibrillators (AEDs) on many construction sites. This new law aims to make worksites safer and save lives during sudden cardiac arrests. Construction sites in Aurora, Newmarket, Vaughan and rest will soon need certified CPR and AED training to stay compliant.
What the new rule says
Under the Occupational Health and Safety Act, any construction project that:
Has 20 or more workers, and
Lasts three months or longer
must have at least one AED on site.
The AED must:
Be Health Canada-approved
Come with safety gear like gloves, a razor, CPR mask, scissors, and towels
Be stored safely in a visible, easy-to-reach place
Have clear signage showing its location
Be checked and maintained regularly
There must also be at least one worker trained in CPR and AED use whenever work is happening on the site.
Why this matters
Cardiac arrest can happen anytime, even to healthy workers. Every minute without help reduces the chance of survival by about 10 %. When CPR and an AED are used quickly, the survival rate can double or even triple.
Construction workers often face tough physical conditions and high stress, making this rule especially important for their safety.
How it affects employers
The average cost of an AED is about $2,000 – $2,500. The Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) will help cover some of this cost through a funding program.
Employers must plan where the AED will go, train staff, and keep inspection records. Ignoring the rule could lead to fines or stop-work orders after January 2026.
What it means for training providers
For companies like Vital First Aid CPR, this rule creates new opportunities to help construction firms:
Provide onsite CPR + AED training for workers
Offer compliance packages that include training, signage, and maintenance help
Run safety refreshers before the law takes effect
Construction sites in Aurora, Newmarket, Vaughan, Markham, Barrie, and the GTA will soon need certified training partners. Starting outreach now can help businesses meet the deadline and avoid last-minute rushes.
Ready to prepare your site team? Explore our Workplace First Aid & AED Training options
Key takeaways
Deadline: January 1, 2026
Applies to: Construction sites with 20 + workers, lasting ≥ 3 months
Goal: Faster response to cardiac emergencies
Action: Install AEDs, train staff, keep maintenance logs
Final word
Ontario’s new AED rule is a big step toward safer workplaces. For employers, it’s about saving lives and staying compliant. For training providers, it’s a chance to make a real difference — ensuring that every jobsite has the tools and the knowledge to act fast when seconds count.
Need AED + CPR training for your team?
Learn more about our Corporate First Aid Training packages designed for Ontario workplaces.”
Visit www.vitalfirstaidcpr.com to book a workplace safety consultation today.
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