Why AED Training Is Now Mandatory in All Canadian CPR Courses

Summary of the Change

Under the new 2025 first aid standards, Automated External Defibrillator (AED) training must be included in both basic and advanced first aid/CPR courses across Canada. This represents a major expansion: previously, AED use was often limited to advanced or specialized courses.

The rationale: sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is time-sensitive. Early defibrillation greatly increases survival rates. Including AED training ensures more potential responders can act confidently.

Why That’s Important

• Public and workplace access to AEDs has been growing; training must keep pace.

• Many cardiac arrests occur at workplaces, public facilities, or events.

• A responder equipped with CPR + AED skills can double or triple survival odds.

• Including AED in basic training closes a skills gap among first responders in small workplaces or remote areas.

Practical Implications & Considerations

• Training providers will revise curriculum: combining chest compressions, rescue breaths, and AED operation.

• Course durations may slightly lengthen.

• Requires access to AED units (training and real ones) for hands-on practice.

Actionable Steps for Workplaces-

1. Confirm course content includes AED modules
   Before signing employees up, ensure providers are compliant with the updated standard.

2. Ensure access to training AEDs and mannequins
   Practice with real or training AED units. Simulators help build muscle memory.

3. Install AEDs in your workplace (if not already)
   Equip central and remote sites with AEDs in visible and accessible locations.

4. Map AED locations and signage
   Keep a floor map of AED positions; post signs and directions.

5. Pair AED training with refresher drills
   During first aid drills, integrate AED mock use to simulate real flow of CPR + defibrillation.

6. Maintain and test AED devices regularly
   Check battery status, electrode pads expiry, readiness indicators.

7. Assign AED champions or stewards
   Someone oversees device readiness, inventory, visibility, and staff training scheduling.

Sample Workflow in an Emergency

1. Respond to collapse → call EMS

2. Begin chest compressions

3. Bring AED → power on, follow prompts

4. Apply pads, allowing machine to analyze rhythm

5. Deliver shock if advised, then resume compressions

6. Continue until paramedics arrive

   Making AED training mandatory in all first aid/CPR courses closes an important gap in emergency response capacity. Workplaces and instructors who adopt this early will ensure responders can act decisively—improving survival chances during cardiac arrest.