Ontario is about to make history with new legislation that puts worker safety first, by requiring AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators) on qualifying construction sites. This proposed change is a direct response to the high incidence of cardiac events in the sector and a push toward proactive safety measures.
At First Aid 4U, we believe access to AEDs shouldn’t just be a legal requirement, it should be a standard part of keeping your team safe. Let’s explore what this means for your business and how we can help you get ahead.
High Risk, High Responsibility
Cardiac arrest can strike without warning, and response time is critical. The Ontario government’s proposal is rooted in urgent need: over 15% of workplace cardiac inspection reports were from the construction industry. Construction workers are often in high-stress, physically demanding roles, and frequently working in locations where emergency services may take longer to arrive.
The new legislation proposes that any site lasting 3 months or longer with 20 or more workers must be equipped with an AED. And the best part? If passed, this initiative will include reimbursement support through WSIB, helping offset the cost (average $2,300 per device) for small and medium-sized contractors.
This change isn’t just compliance—it’s a commitment to your workforce.
Read the full announcement from the Ontario Government
AEDs Save Lives
An AED can increase cardiac arrest survival rates by more than 50% when used in the first few minutes of an event. For construction crews, where work is physical and the environment unpredictable, that margin can mean the difference between life and death.
Here’s what an AED offers your jobsite:
- Instant response in remote locations or confined work zones
- Peace of mind for employees and site supervisors
- A visible commitment to safety and compliance
- Long-term savings on health and safety incidents
“Survival rates decrease by about 10% for every minute without defibrillation. On construction sites where emergency services may take time to arrive, an on-site AED can be the difference between life and death. Adding a defibrillator to a construction site isn’t just a lifesaving tool – it’s a proactive investment in workplace safety. It sends a powerful message about prioritizing health and safety from the ground up.”
– Chuck Resnick
President, The Mikey Network*
*Source
First Aid 4U: Your AED Safety Partner
We don’t just sell AEDs, we help you integrate them into your site safety plans. Whether you’re a project manager, safety lead, or site supervisor, adding an AED is a simple step with life-saving potential.
In addition to supplying CSA-approved AED units, we offer the Red Cross AED/CPR and First Aid training course, specifically tailored for construction crews. This course ensures your team doesn’t just have the equipment, they have the knowledge and confidence to use it effectively in critical moments.
From device selection to real-world training, First Aid 4U supports every aspect of your site’s safety readiness.
