Under the Working for Workers Seven Act, new legislation requires automated external defibrillators (AEDs) on large job sites across Ontario. This law is part of a growing push to make life-saving devices more accessible where they’re needed most.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Who’s affected: Any construction site in Ontario with 20 or more workers and a projected duration of over three months.
- What’s required: At least one AED, clearly marked and accessible to all workers. In larger or multi-level sites, additional AEDs may be necessary to ensure they can be retrieved and returned within three minutes.
- Get reimbursed: Eligible businesses can receive up to $2,300 from the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) toward the cost of a compliant AED.
At AED Advantage, we’ve equipped thousands of job sites across Canada. Whether you need expert product guidance or fast, compliant delivery, we’re here to help you find the right AED for your needs.
Find the perfect AED for your construction site here.
Why Builders Can’t Ignore This AED Requirement
The AED requirements outlined in the Ontario Construction 2025 law address these risks with practical, enforceable steps that every builder should understand.
From legal obligations to life-saving potential, there are several important reasons why AED access is essential on construction sites.
Legal Compliance (Fines, Shutdowns)
The Ministry of Labour has been explicit: enforcement of the new AED requirement will begin in 2025.
Construction sites that fail to comply may face significant fines, stop-work orders, or even full site shutdowns.
Staying ahead of these changes protects your operations and shows your commitment to safety.
Worker Safety: Cardiac Arrest Happens on the Job
Construction work is physically demanding and often takes place in high-stress, high-risk environments. It's no surprise that cardiac arrests occur on job sites.
When they do, every minute without intervention lowers the chance of survival. Having an AED on-site ensures your team is prepared to act quickly, because being ready can save a life.
AEDs Improve Survival Rates up to 70%
Early defibrillation saves lives. When used within minutes after a sudden cardiac arrest (SCA), AEDs paired with CPR can increase survival rates by over 70%.[1]
In contrast, for every minute that passes without defibrillation, the chance of survival decreases by 7% to 10%.[2]
This gives the SCA victim the best possible chance of survival, especially in remote or high-risk environments like construction sites where emergency medical services may not arrive in time.
Insurance and Liability Implications
Beyond legal compliance and life-saving potential, AEDs can also make a difference when it comes to your bottom line. Many insurers view AED installation as a proactive safety measure, which may help reduce your premiums or improve eligibility for coverage.
Just as importantly, having an AED on-site demonstrates due diligence. In the event of a cardiac emergency, it could offer vital protection against liability claims, showing that your company took reasonable steps to protect its workers.
WSIB Funding: Get Up to $2,300 Toward Your AED Purchase
If you're working in Ontario’s construction industry, there's a valuable incentive you should know about. Thanks to a new WSIB program, eligible job sites can receive up to $2,300 in reimbursement to help cover the cost of an AED.
This funding makes it easier and more affordable to meet the new safety requirements and protect your team with confidence.
Learn how to apply and check your eligibility here.
Best AEDs for Canadian Construction Sites
Here are the top picks tailored for harsh environments and large job sites:
1. LIFEPAK CR2
Built for fast-paced, high-risk environments, the LIFEPAK CR2 is one of the most advanced AEDs available for construction sites. It’s designed to perform reliably in tough conditions while keeping things simple for the user.
- Wi-Fi connectivity allows for real-time readiness monitoring and remote updates
- High IP rating offers strong protection against dust, water, and debris
- Clear, bilingual voice prompts make it easy to use in English or French
- Includes rugged carry case and extra accessories ideal for job site deployment
2. Philips FRx
Trusted for its durability and ease of use, the Philips FRx is built to perform in harsh conditions. It’s ideal for construction sites that demand reliable, straightforward equipment with minimal setup.
- Rugged design resists impact, vibration, and extreme environments
- FAA-approved for air travel and transport between sites
- Pre-connected pads save time and reduce setup errors during emergencies
- Comes with a weather-resistant case and essential accessories for on-site use
3. ZOLL AED Plus
The ZOLL AED Plus stands out for its intuitive design and real-time support during emergencies. It’s especially well-suited for construction crews who may need extra guidance in high-stress situations.
- Real-time CPR feedback helps guide compression depth and rate for more effective resuscitation
- Simple graphics and voice prompts make the operation clear, even under pressure
- Long-lasting lithium battery offers up to five years of standby power
- Includes a durable case and accessories built for rugged environments
5 Steps to Comply With Ontario’s New AED Law
Meeting Ontario’s new AED requirements doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you're a site supervisor, safety coordinator, or project manager, this simple five-step roadmap will help you stay compliant, keep your crew safe, and reduce risk across your job sites.
1. Assess Your Projects for Eligibility
Start by identifying which of your projects fall under the new regulation. If your site has 20 or more workers and is expected to last longer than three months, you are required to comply with the AED mandate.
2. Purchase Compliant AEDs
Choose AEDs that are:
- Rugged and weather-resistant, built for industrial settings
- CSA-certified to meet Canadian standards
- Easy to use, even for untrained workers
Looking for reliable options? Browse our construction-ready AED packages.
3. Install and Document AED Locations
Once your AEDs arrive, map out their placement in your site safety plan. Each device should be clearly marked and accessible within three minutes from all active areas. Signage should be visible, and staff should know exactly where to find them.
4. Train Site Managers and Safety Officers
While training isn’t legally required, it’s highly recommended. Even a brief orientation can boost confidence and response times in an emergency. Many AEDs include training materials, or you can coordinate sessions for key staff members.
5. Add AEDs to Your Emergency Action Plan
To stay compliant and prepared, your AEDs must be part of your broader safety strategy. Be sure to update your emergency protocols to include:
- AED locations
- Usage instructions
- Inspection and maintenance schedule
- Assigned safety leads or contacts
Key Questions Answered: AED Requirements for Ontario Construction Sites
These common questions will help you confidently meet the AED requirements Ontario has laid out for job sites across the province.
Understanding the new AED mandate is about knowing how to apply the rules confidently on-site. From equipment selection to placement and upkeep, these are the essential details construction leaders are asking about most.
Here's what you need to know to stay compliant, protect your team, and feel prepared for what’s ahead.
Do Construction Site Staff Need AED Training?
While the new law doesn’t require formal AED training, it’s strongly encouraged. Modern AEDs are designed to guide users through every step with clear voice prompts and visual instructions, making them accessible to even those with no medical background.
That said, brief training can improve response times and build confidence, especially in high-pressure environments such as construction sites. A little preparation goes a long way in helping your team act quickly when it matters most.
Where Should the AED Be Located on a Construction Site?
The goal is simple: make sure help is never far away.
To be effective, an AED must be easily accessible and quickly reachable. It should be clearly marked, stored in a weather-resistant case or cabinet, and placed where workers can access it within three minutes round-trip from any active area on site.
For large, multi-level, or high-traffic sites, a single device may not be enough. Consider placing additional units to ensure coverage across all zones, particularly where travel times or physical barriers may delay responses.
What Type of AED Is Best for Construction Sites?
Construction sites are demanding environments, and the AED you choose needs to be up to the task. Look for units that are:
- Rugged and drop-tested to handle tough conditions
- Water and dust resistant, ideally with an IP55 rating or higher
- Simple to operate, with clear voice prompts and visual guidance
- CSA-certified, so you know it meets Canadian safety standards
An AED built for durability and ease of use ensures your team can respond confidently, even in the most challenging situations. Devices like the LIFEPAK CR2, Philips FRx, and ZOLL AED Plus are all excellent options tailored for industrial use.
Check out our top AEDs for construction sites to find one that fits your project.
How Many AEDs Do You Need?
The law requires at least one AED per qualifying construction site, but in practice, one unit may not be enough. The number of AEDs you need depends on several key factors, including the size of your site, the number of floors or work zones, and the ease with which workers can move between them.
Instead of thinking in terms of distance, focus on response time. To meet best practices, an AED should be reachable and returnable within three minutes from any active area. If that’s not possible with a single unit, it’s time to consider adding more.
What Are the Maintenance or Inspection Requirements?
Owning an AED is just the first step. Keeping it ready for use is equally important. AED maintenance is straightforward, but it needs to be done regularly to ensure your device will perform when it’s needed most.
At a minimum, construction site managers should:
- Perform monthly visual inspections to check for damage, alerts, or missing components
- Confirm that pads and batteries are within their expiry dates
- Monitor self-test indicators, or perform manual checks if needed
Most AEDs run automatic self-tests daily, weekly, or monthly, checking the battery, circuitry, and pad readiness. If something’s wrong, the device will alert you with audible beeps or visible indicators. This is a built-in safety net to help catch problems early.
AED Advantage’s AED Management Program can help here. It offers automated expiry alerts and complimentary AED health assessments, ideal for busy teams managing multiple sites. It’s one less thing to worry about, and one more way to protect your workers.
Protect Your Workers and Your Business
The 2025 AED requirements for Ontario construction sites are straightforward yet impactful, designed to make job sites safer and more responsive in emergencies.
This is more than a compliance issue. It’s a chance to lead by example, strengthen your safety culture, and equip your team with the tools they need to respond effectively in a crisis.
Browse all AED packages for construction and find the right fit for your site.
References
[1] Ibrahim, W. H. (2007). Recent Advances and Controversies in Adult Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation. Postgraduate Medical Journal, 83(985), 643–650.https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2600120/
[2] Benjamin, E. J., Virani, S. S., Callaway, C. W., Chamberlain, A. M., Chang, A. R., Cheng, S., Chiuve, S. E., Cushman, M., Delling, F. N., Deo, R., de Ferranti, S. D., Ferguson, J. F., Fornage, M., Gillespie, C., Isasi, C. R., Jiménez, M. C., Jordan, L. C., Judd, S. E., Lackland, D., ... Muntner, P. (2020). Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics—2020 Update: A Report From the American Heart Association. Circulation, 141(9), e139–e596. https://doi.org/10.1161/CIR.0000000000000757
