WSIB AED Rebates, January 07: Ontario Mandate Hits Construction Sites
The WSIB AED rebate is live and aims to speed compliance with Ontario’s new defibrillator rule on construction sites. Projects that run longer than three months and have 20 or more workers must have an AED onsite. The rebate offers up to C$2,500 per device from July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2027, trimming upfront costs and smoothing adoption. For contractors, 2026 safety budgets and procurement plans will need updates to align with deadlines and documentation requirements.
Coverage and timelines under Ontario’s AED rule
Ontario requires AEDs on construction projects that last over three months and employ 20 or more workers. The unit should be easy to access, visible, and ready for use during all working hours. Owners and general contractors should confirm coverage on a site-by-site basis, including long-running jobs with variable staffing. WSIB has confirmed program support for this mandate in recent updates.
The WSIB AED rebate window runs from July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2027. That period covers two construction seasons, allowing purchases and claims to line up with project cycles. Contractors should plan device selection, delivery, and placement before peak activity. Local coverage confirms the amount and timing of the program source.
Rebate mechanics and eligible purchases
WSIB will rebate up to C$2,500 per AED during the active window. The cap is per device, which lets firms equip multiple sites if needed. Keep dated invoices, site details, and proof of placement to support claims. The agency announced the program to ease compliance for the sector source.
The rebate reduces the initial cost of buying an AED for qualifying construction projects. It applies per device and can meaningfully lower the purchase outlay. Contractors should budget for the unit, placement materials, and routine upkeep. Keep documentation current so claims can be filed smoothly within the window. Confirm any updates from WSIB before large orders to avoid delays.
Budget and risk implications for contractors
Safety capex is set to rise in 2026 as firms standardize AED coverage across job sites. The WSIB AED rebate can offset a substantial share of device costs, improving cash flow and reducing barriers to early adoption. Stagger purchases to match project ramps, and align deliveries with start dates. Group orders may help standardize models and pads across crews and regions.
An AED on site can reduce response times during cardiac emergencies, which supports better outcomes and reduces downtime. Clear placement and simple instructions help non-clinical staff act quickly. Consistent maintenance and visible signage are also key. The WSIB AED rebate supports these steps by lowering acquisition costs, so firms can focus on readiness, training refreshers, and basic upkeep.
Practical steps to comply and claim
Select rugged AED units suitable for dust, vibration, and temperature changes common on sites. Plan a central, visible location near high-traffic areas. Add clear signage, spare pads, and a charged battery. Assign a custodian to check status indicators and expiry dates. The WSIB AED rebate can be integrated into your buying cycle to limit budget strain while meeting project timelines.
Create a simple log for checks, battery replacements, and pad expiry. Photograph installed devices and note serial numbers with site IDs. Run short drills so teams know where the unit is and how to use it. Store purchase records for claims during July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2027. The WSIB AED rebate can be claimed per device, subject to program rules.
Final Thoughts
Ontario’s mandate sets a clear standard: construction projects that run more than three months and employ 20 or more workers must have an AED onsite. The WSIB AED rebate, offering up to C$2,500 per device through June 30, 2027, cuts initial costs and speeds compliance. For 2026, we suggest three actions. First, map qualifying sites and confirm coverage. Second, schedule purchases and deliveries ahead of peak activity, using the rebate to stretch budgets. Third, tighten documentation with invoices, photos, and site IDs to support claims. These steps lower compliance risk, improve emergency readiness, and keep projects on schedule. Investors should expect higher safety capex in 2026, but also faster adoption and reduced liability exposure across Ontario construction.
FAQs
Who must install AEDs under Ontario’s construction rule?
Projects that run more than three months and have 20 or more workers must have an AED onsite. Owners and general contractors should review each site’s duration and headcount. If staffing fluctuates, plan coverage for peak levels. Clear placement, access, and maintenance are part of effective compliance and emergency readiness.
How much is available under the WSIB AED rebate?
WSIB offers up to C$2,500 per AED. The rebate applies per device during the program window from July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2027. Keep invoices and site details to support claims. Check WSIB updates before large orders to ensure your purchases qualify under current program rules.
When should contractors buy AEDs for 2026 projects?
Plan purchases early in the season so units arrive before peak site activity. Align orders with project start dates and staffing ramps. This spreads costs, reduces delivery risks, and gives time for placement, signage, and basic training. Early buying also helps file rebate claims promptly within the active program window.
What documentation helps speed a WSIB AED rebate claim?
Keep dated invoices, device serial numbers, and photos of installed units with site identifiers. Maintain a simple log for checks, pad and battery expiry, and any relocations. Store documents in a shared folder so project leads can retrieve them quickly when submitting claims within the program timeline.
Disclaimer:
The content shared by Meyka AI PTY LTD is solely for research and informational purposes. Meyka is not a financial advisory service, and the information provided should not be considered investment or trading advice.