The Ontario government has introduced the Working for Workers Seven Act, 2025, a legislative package featuring 18 proposed measures aimed at improving workplace safety, enhancing training access, and protecting workers facing economic challenges—including those impacted by U.S. tariffs.
The Act follows the previous Working for Workers legislation, with a strong focus on strengthening Ontario’s skilled trades and construction sector. If passed, several key provisions will directly affect ICI contractors and industry employers across the province.
Key Proposals Relevant to ICI General Contractors:
- Mandatory AEDs on Large Construction Sites: In response to industry recommendations, AEDs would become a required safety device on larger job sites. To support implementation, the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) would establish a reimbursement program to assist constructors with the cost of purchasing AEDs.
- Recognition of Accredited Health and Safety Management Systems in Procurement: Creating the authority to require public infrastructure project owners, constructors, and employers to treat Chief Prevention Officer accredited health and safety management systems (such as COR or ISO) as equivalent in procurement processes.
- Streamlining Skills Development Fund (SDF) Capital Projects: Reductions in administrative barriers aim to accelerate the construction of training centres, creating new opportunities for upskilling and workforce development.
- Enhanced Layoff Support and Anti-Fraud Measures: New protections are being proposed for workers experiencing layoffs and to shield jobseekers from employment scams—a growing concern in the province.
- Expansion of the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP): Increased flexibility in the skilled trades stream will support the attraction and retention of talent in critical construction roles.
What This Means for ICI Contractors
This proposed legislation reflects the province’s ongoing commitment to improving jobsite safety, reducing administrative burden, and enhancing the long-term sustainability of Ontario’s construction workforce.
ICI contractors are encouraged to:
- Review their current AED deployment policies in preparation for compliance.
- Evaluate their safety management systems and ensure accreditation is up to date.
The OGCA will continue monitoring the legislative process and provide updates on implementation timelines, funding programs, and compliance requirements as details become available.
Should you have any questions, or require further assistance, please contact Andrew Sampogna (andrew@ogca.ca)