Background

An automated external defibrillator (AED) is a portable medical device that analyzes a person's heart rhythm and delivers an electrical shock when needed to restore a normal heartbeat during sudden cardiac arrest.

Constructors on construction projects are required to install and maintain an AED on-site if the construction project:

  • is expected to last 3 months or longer
  • regularly employs 20 or more workers

This requirement is in section 27.1 of the Construction Regulation 213/91.

Life-saving impact of AEDs

About 7,000 people in Ontario experience cardiac arrest every year. Without intervention, only 1 in 10 people survive.

Using an AED with CPR in the first few minutes of cardiac arrest can improve survival rates by more than 50%. Survival rates drop by about 10% for every minute without defibrillation.

Construction work is physically demanding and labour-intensive, with an aging workforce and other worksite risk factors like heat stress and electrical contact hazards, having an AED on-site can make a difference during cardiac emergencies.

Requirements for construction sites

Constructors are required on each applicable project to ensure the following:

  • the defibrillator must be licensed as a medical device by Health Canada
  • the defibrillator must be accompanied by the following required items:
    • 1 cardiopulmonary resuscitation mask
    • 1 pair of scissors
    • 2 pairs of disposable medical grade gloves
    • 1 disposable razor
    • 1 garbage bag
    • 4 absorbent towels

The defibrillator and the above items are required to be stored together in a suitable place that:

  • is clear of obstructions
  • facilitates easy access to the defibrillator and required items
  • is clearly marked with prescribed signage requirements
  • is protected from dust, moisture and other substances present at the project that could damage or affect the functionality of the defibrillator or the items
  • if kept outside, is protected from moisture, direct sunlight, extreme temperatures

Maintenance and readiness

The AED must be:

  • maintained and tested in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions
  • inspected at least every 3 months by a competent worker in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions

The constructor shall maintain the AED inspection records and the records shall be kept with the AED. The inspection records shall contain the date of each inspection and the name and signature of the competent worker who performed the inspection.

Staff training and CPR/AED requirement

The constructor is required to ensure that at least 1 worker trained in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and AED operation is always on-site when work is in progress on a project that requires an AED.

Enforcement strategy

This requirement went into effect on January 1, 2026. Ministry inspectors exercise their enforcement discretion with respect to OHSA requirements on a case-by-case basis. Inspectors may issue orders with respect to constructors' compliance with section 27.1 of the Construction Regulations.

WSIB reimbursement program

The Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) will reimburse up to $2,500 per AED for eligible construction projects. Constructors can apply to be reimbursed for the initial purchase cost of 1 AED for each qualifying project.

To apply for reimbursement, constructors must provide supporting documents such as receipts and Notice of Project.

There is no planned reimbursement program for:

  • training workers on AED use, CPR or First Aid
  • maintaining AEDs

Read Regulation 360/25: Reimbursement For Defibrillators to learn more about this financial support.