We would like to provide members with an important update regarding automated external defibrillators (AEDs) on construction sites.
As noted in our previous member bulletins, the provincial government introduced legislation requiring AEDs to be present on certain construction projects and that the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) would establish a reimbursement program to assist constructors with the cost of purchasing AEDs.
The legislation, Working for Workers Seven Act, 2025, has recently passed, along with Ontario Regulation 157/25.
The Regulation will apply to constructors at construction projects where:
- Twenty (20) or more workers are regularly employer at the project
- The project has an expected duration of at least 3 months.
To be compliant, the constructor must ensure that a defibrillator is installed and maintained at the project and that the requirements set out in the Regulation are satisfied.
Ontario Regulation `157/25 – outlining the requirements – can be viewed here.
The Regulation comes into force on January 1, 2026.
According to the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, and Skills Development (MLITSD), when this regulation comes into force, it is expected that construction projects with 20 or more workers regularly employed and a planned duration of three months or more will be in compliance with the requirements.
It is the responsibility of the constructor to ensure that at least one (1) AED is clearly marked and accessible to all workers on the project and that there is a person on the project who is trained in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and AED operation. Additional units may be needed, as required, based on size of project, the layout of the site and location of the workers on the site.
MLITSD inspectors will be starting with an education-based approach to help workplaces understand the requirements and will apply and enforce the OHSA and its regulations based on the facts as they may find them in the workplace.
Note that individual inspectors will make decisions based on the facts on the ground using their discretion.
Make sure you know your requirements under the Regulation.
Please note that details regarding the reimbursement program, such as timelines for reimbursement, what and the number of units eligible, are expected to be finalized, and communicated by the WSIB, on, or around, December 10, 2025.
Should you have any questions regarding the reimbursement program, please email:
We would encourage members to:
- Source a licensed AED approved by Health Canada, and the necessary supplies for each applicable project
- Create an AED policy
- Identify a suitable location or locations – in keeping with the Regulation
- Acquire or create signage – to communicate location of AED(s) to all workers on site
- Train workers in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and AED operation – refer to Regulation.
Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact andrew@ogca.ca
