4 Reasons to Install a Defibrillator in the Workplace – Even If It’s Not Mandatory

Every year, thousands of people suffer a sudden cardiac arrest—often while at work. In most cases, the absence of a nearby defibrillator drastically reduces the chances of survival.
Yet, installing a defibrillator in the workplace remains a voluntary measure in Canada, although it is strongly recommended by health and safety authorities.

Investing in a defibrillator is much more than a purchase—it’s an act of prevention, responsibility, and humanity. Here are four solid reasons to equip your workplace with one today.

Table des Matières/Table of Contents

1. Saving lives — every minute counts

A cardiac arrest can happen anytime, to anyone — a colleague, a client, or a visitor. Without rapid intervention, the chances of survival drop by 10% per minute. After ten minutes, they are almost zero.

The purpose of a workplace defibrillator is to restore a normal heart rhythm while waiting for emergency responders.
Easy to use, the AED (Automated External Defibrillator) guides the user step-by-step with voice instructions. No medical background is required.

Key facts:

Over 35,000 cardiac arrests occur each year in Canada.
A defibrillator used within the first three minutes can raise survival rates to 70%.
For every minute without a defibrillator, survival chances drop by 10%.
Most incidents in workplaces occur in common areas (cafeteria, meeting room, lobby).

Having a defibrillator within reach can truly make the difference between life and death.
It’s as essential as a fire extinguisher or a first aid kit.

2. A moral and social responsibility for employers

Installing a defibrillator in the workplace is, above all, a demonstration of care and responsibility toward your employees.
Beyond legal requirements, employers have a moral duty to ensure a safe and supportive work environment.

A gesture that strengthens a prevention culture

Employees feel more confident when they know their health and safety are a priority.
The presence of a defibrillator in the workplace:

Reinforces a sense of security day-to-day;
Reflects a proactive health and safety policy;
Improves overall well-being and team cohesion.

A symbol of human commitment

Installing an AED sends a clear message:

“Here, we put people first.”

This action enhances the company’s reputation among employees, partners, and even clients.
It reflects an organizational culture focused on prevention, empathy, and social responsibility.

3. A valuable asset for compliance and credibility

Even though the law does not require having a defibrillator in the workplace, health and safety agencies strongly recommend it—especially in places open to the public or with many employees.

A moral, if not legal, obligation

The Labour Code requires every employer to protect the health and safety of their workers.
That includes setting up effective first aid measures.
Installing a defibrillator helps fulfill this duty of care and demonstrates a strong preventive mindset.

In the event of a workplace cardiac emergency, not having an AED could be seen as a lack of due diligence, particularly in larger organizations or public-facing environments.

A matter of credibility

Having a defibrillator at work also helps:

Demonstrate a high level of health and safety compliance;
Strengthen trust among employees and visitors;
Improve your image as a responsible, safety-minded organization.

In some tenders or partnerships, the presence of a defibrillator in the workplace may even be viewed as a credibility or compliance criterion.

4. An affordable and simple investment

Contrary to popular belief, installing a defibrillator in the workplace does not require a large budget or complex training.
Modern models are intuitive, portable, and accessible to everyone.

Minimal cost, maximum impact

The price of a defibrillator varies by model but is often lower than the cost of a single serious accident.
It’s a long-term investment—lasting up to 8–10 years with minimal maintenance.

Easy installation and maintenance

No major renovations required.
Mounts easily on a visible wall (entrance, cafeteria, break room).
Requires only periodic checks of the battery and pads.

Training and awareness

Although AEDs are designed for anyone to use, it’s recommended to organize a short awareness session.
This ensures employees can react quickly and confidently in an emergency.

How to choose the right defibrillator for your business

Not all defibrillators are the same. Here are the main criteria to consider before purchasing one:

Type of AED: automatic (delivers the shock automatically) or semi-automatic (requires pressing a button).
Environment: office, warehouse, retail store, factory, etc.
Accessibility: should be clearly visible and easy to reach; a wall cabinet can be a great addition.
Warranty and maintenance: choose certified devices backed by local service and support.

At EPI Canada, you’ll find a selection of certified, reliable defibrillators suitable for every type of workplace.

Best practices for integrating a defibrillator into your safety policy

Installing an defibrillator in the workplace is a great first step. Integrating it effectively into your company’s safety plan is even better.
Here are a few best practices:

Choose a central, accessible location with clear signage.
Train key staff (reception, HR, safety officers) in its use.
Inform all employees about the AED’s location and the emergency procedure.
Plan annual drills to maintain preparedness.
Perform regular equipment checks (battery, pads, case condition).

By following these steps, your company builds a complete and reliable chain of survival.

FAQ

Q1. Is having a defibrillator in the workplace mandatory?
No, having a defibrillator in the workplace isn’t mandatory in Canada, but it is strongly recommended by health authorities. In certain high-risk environments (factories, gyms, public spaces), it may even be a contractual requirement.

Q2. Do employees need training to use it?
Not necessarily, but it’s highly encouraged. A short training session can improve confidence and reaction time during an emergency.

Q3. How much does a defibrillator cost?
Depending on the model, typically between $1,500 and $2,500—a small cost compared to the value of a human life.

Q4. Where should the defibrillator be installed?
In a central, visible, and easily accessible area, ideally near a phone or reception desk.

Q5. What is the device’s lifespan?
About 8 to 10 years, with periodic replacement of the battery and pads.

Conclusion

Installing a defibrillator in the workplace isn’t a constraint—it’s common sense.
It means protecting your employees’ lives, strengthening your prevention culture, and demonstrating your commitment to safety.

In summary:

It saves lives.
It enhances your social responsibility.
It improves compliance and credibility.
It’s simple, affordable, and accessible.

A forward-thinking company is a resilient company.
Take action today—equip your workplace with a defibrillator and show that employee safety is your top priority.

About Stéphane Maurais – Founder of Alco Prevention Canada

Since 1989, Stéphane Maurais has embodied passion, innovation, and determination in the service of road safety and the prevention of risks related to alcohol and drug use. Alongside his partner Ronald Chartrand—whose father tragically lost his life in a traffic accident in the 1970s—he founded Alco Prevention Canada, now recognized as a global leader in prevention solutions. These include certified single-use breathalyzers, electronic breath alcohol testers, drug screening tests, workplace health and safety programs, and event-based prevention tools.

Over a 36-year career, Stéphane Maurais has distributed millions of breathalyzers, helped save thousands of lives, and raised awareness among companies, government agencies, law enforcement, colleges, and universities around the world. He is also a pioneer in the fight against chemical submission, developing concrete tools to combat date rape drugs.

His commitment is unwavering:

“Every breath measured is a life protected. For 36 years, my mission has been simple: to save lives, one decision at a time.”
— Stéphane Maurais
Founder and President, Alco Prevention Canada