01/06/2026
New Ontario Construction Site AED Requirements
Effective January 1, 2026
Ontario has introduced new safety requirements mandating the presence of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) on qualifying construction projects. These changes fall under the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) and are designed to improve emergency cardiac response on construction sites.
Who Is Required to Have an AED?
An AED is required on a construction site when both of the following conditions are met:
The project is expected to last three (3) months or longer, and
Twenty (20) or more workers are regularly employed at the site
Projects that begin before January 1, 2026 but continue beyond that date must comply once these conditions are met.
Smaller or shorter-duration projects are not legally required to have an AED, but having one is still strongly recommended as a best safety practice.
AED Equipment Requirements:
-The constructor (the employer with overall responsibility for the project) must ensure:
-The AED is licensed as a medical device by Health Canada
-The AED is kept in good working order at all times
-Required AED Accessories
-Each AED must be stored with the following supplies:
-One CPR mask
-One pair of scissors
-Two pairs of disposable medical-grade gloves
-One disposable razor
-One garbage bag
-Four absorbent towels
Our supplies can be found here https://sands.ca/collections/defibrillators-and-supplies
Regulation can be found here: https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/r25157
All supplies must be maintained and replaced as needed.
Placement & Accessibility:
The AED and its accessories must be:
Stored together in one location
Protected from dust, moisture, extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, and harmful substances
Unobstructed and easily accessible during an emergency
Signage Requirements
Clear signage must be posted to identify the AED location. Signage must include:
A graphic symbol of a heart with a lightning bolt
The words “Automated External Defibrillator” or “AED”, or the French equivalent “Défibrillateur externe automatisé” or “DEA”
Inspection & Maintenance:
The AED must be maintained and tested according to the manufacturer’s instructions
A quarterly inspection must be completed by a competent worker
Inspection records must be kept on site with the AED and include:
Date of inspection
Name and signature of the inspector
Training Requirements
At least one worker trained in CPR and AED use must be present on site at all times when work is being performed.
Why This Matters:
Construction environments involve physically demanding work and increased health risks. Immediate access to an AED, combined with CPR, significantly improves survival outcomes in the event of sudden cardiac arrest. These new requirements help ensure faster emergency response and safer job sites across Ontario.
Compliance Reminder
Failure to comply with AED requirements may result in enforcement action under the Occupational Health and Safety Act. Constructors should ensure AEDs are included in their site safety plans and emergency response procedures.
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