Starting January 1, 2026, Ontario is introducing a new AED requirement for construction sites. This regulation, under the Occupational Health and Safety Act, ensures that construction workers have access to automated external defibrillators (AEDs) on qualifying worksites.
At canaPHEM, we help construction companies stay ahead of safety regulations, provide training, and ensure AED compliance and workplace preparedness.
Why AEDs Are Critical on Construction Sites
Construction work is physically demanding and occurs in high-risk environments. Cardiac emergencies can happen unexpectedly, and having an AED on-site can save lives.
Key reasons AEDs matter:
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Survival rates increase from 5% to 75% when CPR and AED use are combined promptly
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Each minute without defibrillation decreases survival chances by approximately 10%
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Immediate access to AEDs protects workers in remote or high-risk construction zones
Which Sites Must Comply?
The 2026 AED requirement applies to construction projects that:
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Employ 20 or more workers at any time
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Last three months or longer
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Begin before January 1, 2026, but continue past that date
Even smaller projects are encouraged to have an AED as part of best practice workplace safety measures.
AED Compliance Requirements
Construction employers must ensure AEDs are:
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Licensed as a medical device in Canada
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Accessible within three minutes to workers
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Clearly marked with signage
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Maintained regularly and is functional at all times
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Properly scaled for multi-level or large sites
Proper placement, maintenance, and training are essential for compliance and employee safety.
Training and Preparedness
AEDs are designed to be user-friendly, but training improves confidence and response times.
canaPHEM can help your team:
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Provide AED and CPR training tailored to construction environments
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Develop emergency response plans for worksites
- Maintain readiness for any medical emergency
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This ensures that your workforce knows precisely what to do during a cardiac event.
Legal Protection: Good Samaritan Laws
Many workers hesitate to use an AED due to liability concerns. In Ontario, Good Samaritan legislation protects individuals who use an AED in good faith during emergencies. Properly trained employees can respond without fear of legal repercussions, encouraging swift and effective action.
Steps to Prepare Your Construction Site
To comply with the new AED regulation, construction companies should:
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Review project timelines to identify affected sites
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Update health and safety procedures with AED protocols
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Select AEDs suitable for your environment (rugged, weather-resistant, easy to use)
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Install units in accessible locations
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Provide or refresh training for your workforce
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Maintain documentation of installation, maintenance, and training
Being proactive ensures compliance and demonstrates a commitment to worker safety.
How canaPHEM Support You
canaPHEM specializes in workplace safety solutions for construction sites, offering:
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On-site emergency planning and medical coverage
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First aid and AED training for workers
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Guidance on regulatory compliance and best practices
We work with construction companies across Ontario to implement practical, life-saving solutions and ensure full compliance with the 2026 AED requirement.
The Bottom Line
The new AED regulation represents a significant step forward for construction site safety in Ontario. Companies that act now will:
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Ensure compliance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act
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Equip teams to respond confidently to cardiac emergencies
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Demonstrate a proactive safety culture
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Potentially save lives when every second matters
Don’t wait — prepare your construction site today.
Contact canaPHEM to discuss AED compliance, training, and workplace safety solutions for Ontario construction sites.