Sudden cardiac arrest is a top cause of workplace deaths in the construction sector. To protect workers on the front lines of Ontario’s growing infrastructure projects, the provincial government will introduce groundbreaking legislation in 2026 that will require automatic external defibrillators (AEDs) on larger construction sites.
Which Sites Qualify?
Sites lasting three months or longer, and has 20 or more workers on the job must have an AED on site. Under the Working for Workers Seven Act, 2025, Ontario has worked to implement a reimbursement program that may help businesses offset the initial compliance cost.
What This Means for Industrial Teams
With this new mandate in action, at least one AED must be readily available and ready to use on these sites. Industrial sites present risks to workers on the daily, making it a necessity for life-saving intervention.
Additionally, training requirements for multiple workers on site is essential for any crew. Keep your team knowledgeable on the signs, have someone designated to respond with emergency action, and be ready for the unexpected. With this being said, AEDs should be placed strategically, ensuring easy access when life-threatening situations occur.
The devices should also be placed in areas where they are protected from damage. However, many AEDs are built to withstand the harsh conditions that construction sites create. Explore your options to see which AED is right for your team. Lastly, you should be checking your devices regularly to ensure optimal functioning. This includes checking the battery life, inspecting for damage, and replacing pads needed for defibrillation.
How Can SupplyNow Help?
Choosing a supplier to partner with is essential. At SupplyNow, not only do we offer a range of accessories and add-ons for your AED and emergency needs, we also offer the Philips HeartStart HS1, and the FRx AEDs. Philips is one of the most recognized and trusted names in the AED market, and has been praised for their devices ease of use, clear voice instructions, reliability and more.
Shop the Philips HeartStart HS1 AED
Shop the Philips HeartStart FRx AED
Despite this, the “best” AED depends on the setting and specific needs of your team/site.
Finally
Having AEDs mandatory on construction sites could be a life-saving change. These jobs are physically demanding and can be remote, which increases the risk of sudden cardiac arrest and delays emergency response. AEDs on-site allows for immediate action, dramatically improving survival chances without delay. It can also boost morale, and protects not just employees but anyone who might be present. It’s a simple step that can make a life-or-death difference.
Why wait until 2026? Contact one of our experts today to get more info on how to choose the AED that’s right for your team.