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WHITBY, ONT. \u2014 Ontario Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development David Piccini has announced a first for Canada as a way to make construction sites safer by requiring automatic external defibrillators (AEDs) at construction sites.<\/p>\n
If passed, the proposed amendments would require AEDs on construction projects that are expected to last three months or longer with 20 or more workers.<\/p>\n
To support businesses with the\u00a0costs,\u00a0a proposed program\u00a0through\u00a0the \u00a0<\/u>would reimburse constructors for the purchase of an AED, states a release.<\/p>\n
During consultations held as part of , construction industry stakeholders\u00a0recommended AEDs as essential devices to\u00a0have\u00a0onsite.<\/p>\n
Data from the ministry shows more than 15 per cent of inspection reports associated with \u201ccardiac\u201d or \u201cheart attack\u201d were in the construction sector.<\/p>\n
While the industry spoke on the importance of these devices, stakeholders also highlighted the need for financial support to help\u00a0small businesses with\u00a0the purchase\u00a0of AEDs.<\/p>\n
As of April 2025, the cost to purchase one AED is on average $2,300, the release adds. The WSIB reimbursement program would be paid from the WSIB insurance fund.<\/p>\n
\u201cOur skilled workers are at the centre of our government\u2019s plan to build highways, energy and key infrastructure. Ensuring lifesaving equipment is where it\u2019s needed to keep them safe is one more way we\u2019re creating safer workplaces,\u201d said Piccini in a statement.<\/p>\n
Stakeholders from the Residential Construction Council of Ontario, the Ontario Sewer and Watermain Construction Association, Construction Employers Coordinating Council of Ontario and others praised the announcement.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe safety of our members is, and always will be, our top priority. Lives can change in seconds on a construction site, and access to an AED can mean the difference between life and death,\u201d said Jack Oliveira, business manager with LIUNA Local 183.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis proposed change is a critical step forward in protecting the hardworking men and women who build our province every day.\u201d<\/p>\n
The proposal is\u00a0part of a\u00a0larger proposed package\u00a0that will be unveiled in the coming days. This news also builds on changes introduced in 2022 that require .<\/p>\n
\u201cEllisDon supports the newest version of the Working for Workers Bill, highlighting the mandate for AEDs on larger construction sites. Ensuring the health and safety of workers and the potential need for AEDs provides peace of mind for workers should there ever be a necessity to use one,\u201d added Steve Chaplin, senior vice-president, health, safety and environment at EllisDon Corporation.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis critical update is a testament to our ongoing commitment to enhancing the health, safety, and wellness of every individual on our worksites.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n