WHITBY, ONT. — Ontario Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development David Piccini has announced a first for Canada as a way to make construction sites safer by requiring automatic external defibrillators (AEDs) at construction sites.
If passed, the proposed amendments would require AEDs on construction projects that are expected to last three months or longer with 20 or more workers.
To support businesses with the costs, a proposed program through the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) would reimburse constructors for the purchase of an AED, states a release.
During consultations held as part of Working for Workers Five, construction industry stakeholders recommended AEDs as essential devices to have onsite.
Data from the ministry shows more than 15 per cent of inspection reports associated with “cardiac” or “heart attack” were in the construction sector.
While the industry spoke on the importance of these devices, stakeholders also highlighted the need for financial support to help small businesses with the purchase of AEDs.
As of April 2025, the cost to purchase one AED is on average $2,300, the release adds. The WSIB reimbursement program would be paid from the WSIB insurance fund.
“Our skilled workers are at the centre of our government’s plan to build highways, energy and key infrastructure. Ensuring lifesaving equipment is where it’s needed to keep them safe is one more way we’re creating safer workplaces,” said Piccini in a statement.
Stakeholders from the Residential Construction Council of Ontario, the Ontario Sewer and Watermain Construction Association, Construction Employers Coordinating Council of Ontario and others praised the announcement.
“The safety of our members is, and always will be, our top priority. Lives can change in seconds on a construction site, and access to an AED can mean the difference between life and death,” said Jack Oliveira, business manager with LIUNA Local 183.
“This proposed change is a critical step forward in protecting the hardworking men and women who build our province every day.”
The proposal is part of a larger proposed package that will be unveiled in the coming days. This news also builds on changes introduced in 2022 that require naloxone kits in at-risk workplaces.
“EllisDon supports the newest version of the Working for Workers Bill, highlighting the mandate for AEDs on larger construction sites. Ensuring the health and safety of workers and the potential need for AEDs provides peace of mind for workers should there ever be a necessity to use one,” added Steve Chaplin, senior vice-president, health, safety and environment at EllisDon Corporation.
“This critical update is a testament to our ongoing commitment to enhancing the health, safety, and wellness of every individual on our worksites.”
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