Ontario Regulation 213/91: AED Requirements for Construction Sites (2026)

Why Ontario Regulation 213/91 Matters

Ontario construction safety regulations are changing. Section 27 of Ontario Regulation 213/91 now requires Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) on many construction sites. This is not just about legal compliance it’s about protecting workers’ lives. Sudden cardiac arrest can happen anywhere, and being prepared saves time and lives.

Who Needs an AED on Ontario Construction Sites?

Your project must comply if it meets both criteria:

• 20 or more workers regularly on site
• Expected duration: more than 3 months

If your project meets these thresholds, compliance with Ontario Regulation 213/91 is mandatory.

Construction Site AED Requirements Under Ontario Regulation 213/91

Step 1: Get the Right Equipment

• AED: Must be Health Canada-licensed and readily accessible on site
• Safety kit: Required items include:
  • 1 CPR face mask
  • 1 pair of scissors
  • 2 pairs of disposable medical-grade gloves
  • 1 disposable razor
  • 1 garbage bag
  • 4 absorbent towels

Step 2: Have Trained Staff

• At all times while work is in progress, a worker trained in CPR and AED operation must be present.
• This ensures immediate response in case of a cardiac emergency.

Step 3: Signage & Inspections

• Signage: AED location must be clearly marked and accessible to all workers.
• Quarterly Inspections: Both AED and safety kit must be checked every three months by a competent worker, with records kept for compliance.

Watch Our Quick Video

Watch this 2-minute video to see exactly what your project needs to stay compliant and take advantage of WSIB reimbursement.

Financial Support: WSIB AED Reimbursement Program

• Rebate: Up to $2,500 per qualifying project
• Eligible AED purchases: July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2027
• Application window: Jan 1, 2026 – July 31, 2027

STS Group can assist with the reimbursement application to ensure you get your eligible credit and maximize cost savings.

How STS Group Can Help?

STS Group supports construction companies in meeting the requirements of Ontario Regulation 213/91 by providing both equipment and certified training.

• AED Supply: STS Group is a supplier of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) and accessories for construction sites.
• WSIB-Approved Training: STS Group is a WSIB-approved First Aid & CPR/AED training provider. Training is available on-site at your workplace or at our facilities.

End-to-End Compliance Solutions with STS Group

STS Group provides complete turnkey solutions for construction projects under Ontario Regulation 213/91:

• Equipment & Installation: Health Canada-licensed AEDs and safety kits delivered and installed on site
• Certified Training: CPR and AED programs tailored for your crew
• Complete Packages: Bundled equipment, training, and compliance support for hassle-free implementation
• WSIB Reimbursement Support: Guidance and paperwork assistance for claiming rebates up to $2,500 per eligible project

Don’t wait for an inspection or an emergency. Contact STS Group today for a consultation and keep your construction site safe while fully meeting Ontario Regulation 213/91 and the new 2026 requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions About AEDs on Ontario Construction Sites

1. What is the AED rebate program for WSIB?

The WSIB AED rebate program helps construction projects in Ontario offset the cost of purchasing Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs). Eligible projects can claim up to $2,500 per project for AEDs purchased between July 1, 2025, and June 30, 2027. Learn more in our Financial Support section.

2. Does a workplace require an AED?

Yes. According to Ontario Regulation 213/91, projects with 20 or more workers and an expected duration of more than 3 months must have an AED on site. This ensures workers are protected in case of sudden cardiac arrest. Check out our Who Needs an AED section for details.

3. What is the AED subsidy program in Ontario?

The WSIB rebate program essentially acts as a subsidy, helping employers reduce the financial burden of complying with AED requirements. STS Group can assist with the application to ensure you get your full eligible credit.

4. How to raise money for an AED?

Many workplaces take advantage of the WSIB AED rebate program or other local workplace safety grants. By applying for these programs, your organization can significantly lower the cost of purchasing and installing AEDs.

5. What is the 3-minute rule for AEDs?

The 3-minute rule is a best practice guideline in emergency response: an AED should ideally be available and applied within 3 minutes of a worker experiencing cardiac arrest. Proper placement, signage, and trained staff ensure this rapid response. STS Group provides on-site CPR and AED training to help your team act quickly.