MCA Ontario Newsletters


New AED Requirements and WSIB Reimbursement


Starting January 1, 2026, construction projects with 20 or more workers and an expected duration of three months or longer in Ontario will be required to have a Health Canada–licensed Automated External Defibrillator (AED) on site under O. Reg. 157/25 of the Occupational Health and Safety Act. The regulation also sets out requirements for signage, inspections, accessories, and ensuring a worker trained in CPR/AED use is present while work is underway.


To help offset costs, the province has introduced a WSIB reimbursement program through Bill 30, the Working for Workers Seven Act, 2025.


Key details for members:

  • Reimbursement of up to $2,500 per AED, limited to one AED per qualifying construction project
  • Separate applications required for each project, with no limit on the number of projects a contractor may apply for
  • AEDs must be purchased between July 1, 2025 and June 30, 2027
  • Only Health Canada approved AEDs qualify (verified through the MDALL database)


Applications opened January 1, 2026, and must be submitted through WSIB online services with approved reimbursements expected to be credited within approximately 60 days.


Reimbursement details and applications HERE!


Read the legislation HERE!


TSSA Updates


TSSA Implements BPV Certificate of Inspection Fee Increases

Effective January 2, 2026 the TSSA implemented changes to Boiler and Pressure Vessel Certificate of Inspection fees. The update affects BPV owners and operators across Ontario and was billed as part of a broader effort to maintain a sustainable and effective regulatory safety program.


The revised fee structure was based on updated BPV inventory data and operational efficiencies, allowing TSSA to move the BPV COI program toward full cost recovery. TSSA noted that prior to the adjustment, the program had been operating at a deficit, which was not sustainable for long-term safety oversight and service delivery.


According to TSSA, the changes reflected the current cost of delivering BPV inspection and certification services while continuing to support public safety outcomes and regulatory effectiveness across the sector. The adjustment aligned the BPV program with similar fee updates introduced in other regulated sectors in recent years.


Members with BPV responsibilities are encouraged to review the updated fee structure and account for the changes in future project and operating budgets.


Read the full notice HERE!


TSSA Oil Burner Technician Curricula Update

TSSA has updated the Oil Burner Technician 2 and 3 curricula to align with the latest CSA B139 Code, which will be adopted in the coming months.

 

The updates introduce new content, including introductory modules from the Gas Technician curriculum and expanded material related to portable generators and biofuel. These changes are intended to ensure training better reflects current technologies, fuels, and safety requirements in the field. Updated curricula and summary documents have been released for both OBT 2 and OBT 3 programs.

 

Below are the revised curriculum and a summary of changes:


TSSA will begin administering new exams aligned with the updated curricula on June 1, 2026. In advance of this change, accredited training providers offering OBT 2 and OBT 3 programs are required to revise their training materials to ensure students are fully prepared for the updated exams. 


Labour Mobility Changes Effective January 1, 2026

As of January 1, 2026, new labour mobility rules are now in effect in Ontario, making it easier for certified workers from other provinces and territories to begin working in the province. These changes are part of a broader provincial effort to reduce interprovincial barriers, strengthen the Canadian workforce, and improve economic competitiveness.


Under the new “As of Right” framework, workers certified elsewhere in Canada, including mechanical contractors, engineers, electricians, architects, and other regulated professionals, can begin working in Ontario within 10 business days once their credentials are confirmed by the appropriate regulator. Previously, this process could take several months.


For MCAO members, these changes mean faster access to skilled labour, reduced hiring delays, and greater flexibility when staffing projects, particularly during periods of high demand or labour shortages. The rules apply across more than 50 regulatory authorities and approximately 300 certifications, helping contractors fill critical roles while maintaining Ontario’s safety and qualification standards.


These labour mobility reforms are part of Ontario’s broader push to unlock free trade within Canada. The province has signed economic cooperation agreements with other provinces and territories and is advancing mutual recognition of goods and services, a move expected to reduce regulatory duplication and improve market access for businesses operating across provincial borders.


To learn more about Ontario’s labour mobility changes click HERE!


MCAO Training


February 12 - TSSA Webinar: Boilers & Pressure Vessels Regulatory Update

MCA Ontario, in partnership with the TSSA, will be hosting a webinar on Thursday, February 12, 2026, focused on Boilers and Pressure Vessels (BPV) regulatory requirements. The session will take place at 12:00 p.m. and will be delivered live via Zoom.


The webinar will feature Tony Gabriele, BPV Regional Supervisor, who will review regulatory requirements related to the newly introduced Alternate Piping Initiative and what it means for piping contractors. Kavian Kia, BPV Regional Supervisor, will also provide an overview of TSSA’s regulated industries, Ontario’s legislative framework, and inspection responsibilities, including the BPV lifecycle, common compliance questions, design reviews, and the importance of obtaining a Canadian Registration Number (CRN).


To register, click HERE!


The session will conclude with a brief demonstration of the TSSA portal, offering members practical insight into navigating compliance requirements.



February 25 – COR vs ISO with 4S Consulting

MCA Ontario is partnering with 4S Consulting Group to deliver an upcoming webinar focused on the key differences between COR™ 2020 and ISO 45001. This session will take place on February 25, from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m., and is designed to help members better understand which certification pathway best aligns with their organization’s health and safety goals.


The webinar will provide practical insight into how each standard compares, what the certification process involves, and how contractors can manage both compliance and long-term sustainability.


The webinar will cover:


  • The real differences between COR™ 2020 and ISO 45001
  • What the certification journey looks like, including timelines, audits, and ongoing requirements
  • How WSIB HSEp rebates can help offset certification costs
  • How tools such as 4SafeCom support day-to-day compliance and audit readiness


This session is a valuable opportunity for members considering certification or looking to strengthen their existing health and safety management systems.


To register, click HERE!


Free Virtual IHSA COR® 2020 Orientation Sessions 

MCA Ontario is pleased to share that the Infrastructure Health and Safety Association (IHSA) will continue offering its COR® 2020 virtual sessions throughout 2026. These sessions are designed to support organizations at every stage of the COR® process, with practical guidance and direct support from IHSA’s COR® team.


Whether your organization is new to COR®, preparing for an initial audit, or working toward recertification, these monthly sessions provide valuable insight to help you navigate COR® requirements with confidence.


Session Details:


  • One session held each month throughout 2026
  • 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
  • Delivered virtually via Zoom
  • Free to attend


Registration details and the sign-up link available HERE!


Free IHSA eLearning

In celebration of Small Business Week, the Infrastructure Health and Safety Association (IHSA) is offering its entire eLearning library free of charge until January 31, 2026.


IHSA’s eLearning platform features dozens of online courses covering essential safety topics from asbestos awareness and defensive driving to introduction to hazard and risk management. These programs are designed to help improve safety practices across businesses of all sizes, providing a convenient and flexible way to strengthen workplace health and safety knowledge.


This initiative supports IHSA’s ongoing commitment to helping Ontario employers keep workers safe, productive, and well-informed year-round.


To access free eLearning, click HERE! and use promo code WS4L100 when signing up.


Working for Workers Seven Act - Bill 30 receives royal ascent 


Ontario’s Working for Workers Seven Act has now received Royal Assent, making it law. The legislation continues the province’s multi-year focus on worker protection, enforcement, and compliance, with several measures that will affect construction employers.


Key areas of impact for MCA Ontario members include:


  • Enhanced enforcement and compliance tools, with greater authority for inspectors and regulators
  • Increased focus on worker classification, aimed at addressing misclassification and non-compliance
  • Expanded employer obligations, including potential new administrative and reporting requirements
  • Heightened accountability measures, with implications for workplace practices and project oversight


As with previous Working for Workers legislation, some provisions are in effect immediately, while others will come into force through regulation at a later date.


MCA Ontario is reviewing the Act in detail and will continue to engage with government and enforcement partners to advocate for members and provide practical guidance as implementation details are clarified.


Read the full bill HERE!


Funding Opportunity Now Open: AMIC Stream


MCA Ontario members planning investments in equipment, automation, or workforce training may wish to take advantage of a current provincial funding opportunity. The Advanced Manufacturing and Innovation Competitiveness (AMIC) Stream, part of Ontario’s Regional Development Program, is now open and accepting applications until February 3, 2026.


The AMIC Stream supports Ontario-based manufacturing firms, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises, that are investing in capital equipment, technology adoption, and skills development. To be eligible, businesses must have been operating for at least three years, employ a minimum of 10 full-time equivalent staff, and commit to a project investment of at least $500,000, including job creation or upskilling for at least five positions.


What members can do now:


  • Review upcoming capital, technology, or training investments
  • Confirm whether planned projects meet the program’s investment and employment requirements
  • Ensure projects clearly demonstrate Ontario economic impact, including job creation, innovation, and supply chain benefits
  • Connect with provincial advisors to confirm eligibility and strengthen applications


For more information on the AMIC Stream, click HERE!


To access the application form, click HERE!


MCAC Training


Leadership Speaking and Presence for Women

MCA Ontario is pleased to highlight an upcoming MCAC training course, Leadership Speaking and Presence for Women: Developing Confident, Clear & Powerful Voices. This program is designed to support women in leadership roles by strengthening communication skills, enhancing professional presence, and building confidence when leading teams or engaging with stakeholders.


The course focuses on practical techniques to help participants communicate with clarity and impact, develop a strong leadership voice, and navigate a range of professional settings with confidence. Interest in the program has been strong, with more than half of the available spaces already filled.


MCAO encourages members to share this opportunity within their organizations and networks to ensure those interested have the chance to participate.


To register and view full course details click HERE!

For additional information or questions about the course, members are encouraged to reach out to Piers Young Piers@mcac.ca.



Dispatcher Training

MCA Ontario is pleased to promote an MCAC’s upcoming Dispatcher Training program taking place February 25–26, 2026. This two-day course is designed to help dispatchers improve job performance by strengthening communication, decision-making, and leadership skills.


After attending this program, dispatchers will be able to improve their job performance by learning how to: 


  • Identify the service life cycle and the critical contact points that impact service success 
  • Recognize the importance of the dispatcher’s job and its impact on the organization’s profitability 
  • Communicate effectively with technicians and customers
  • and use good decision-making approaches for optimum priority setting and effective resource allocation.


The course will run over two full days, with lunch provided.


To register or for more information, click HERE! or contact Piers Young directly.

Looking for more?

Our intent is to make this a quarterly newsletter that is full of timely and valuable information for you. If you would like to see a specific topic or concern included in a future version please reach out to us at mcao@mcao.org. We welcome any feedback and/or questions you may have.

MCA Ontario Newsletters

October 28, 2025
Upcoming Release: 2025 Collective Agreement The finalized 2025 Collective Agreement will be available online next week. Hard copies will also be sent to local zone offices for appropriate distribution by the end of November. If you have any questions, please contact our office at mcao@mcao.org
August 20, 2025
Upcoming MCAO Events MCAO is hosting two very exciting important events in October on back to back days so that you don’t need to travel twice! October 23 – Joint Leadership Conference The Electrical, Mechanical, and Labour Sectors Unite! Join the Electrical Contractors Association of Ontario ( ECAO ),Mechanical Contractors Association of Ontario ( MCAO ) and Construction Labour Relations Association of Ontario ( CLRAO ) for the 2025 Joint Leadership Conference! October 24 - MCAO’s S.M.A.R.T. Innovation Evening Experience a dynamic speed networking format at the Hockey Hall of Fame, where participants will rotate between supplier & manufacturer to discuss progressive solutions to challenges in the mechanical contracting industry. Click HERE! to register for both events!
June 25, 2025
Free Project Management PMP Training Spots are Filling Up! MCAO, in partnership with ECAO and CLRAO, is offering a fully funded training opportunity for MCAO member contractors: PROMEX – Project Management Skills for Construction Excellence. Delivered in collaboration with the Schulich School of Business at York University, this program enables participants to earn a Master’s Certificate in Project Management (MCPM). Participants will also be eligible to write the PMP® exam through the Project Management Institute (PMI)—all at no cost, thanks to the Ontario Skills Development Fund. Program Details: The course runs for a total of 8 weeks: 6 weeks of project management training through Schulich ExecEd 2 weeks of AI and digital tools training through iKITES Live virtual sessions every Tuesday and Thursday, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. PMP® exam prep and fees covered Upcoming cohorts September 4, 2025, and October 23, 2025. Get the full program overview and registration steps in the brochure HERE !
April 23, 2025
New MCAO Training Webpage We are excited to announce the launch of a dedicated training section on our official MCAO website! This new hub is designed to be your one-stop destination for all things training-related, featuring everything from updates on upcoming and past MCAO training sessions, to exclusive giveaways and a range of free training resources. Whether you're seeking technical courses, safety certifications, or leadership development opportunities, our new platform makes it easier than ever to access the training you need to grow your staff’s skills. Explore training programs tailored to your professional goals and stay informed on the latest offerings. Be sure to check back regularly for updates, new resources, and more chances to win through our training-related giveaways!
February 26, 2025
MCAO’s HR on Demand An HR partner might not be a role that your business can support in-house. Most companies don’t add an HR person until they hit 50 people. In the meantime, if you have a question that relates to hiring, performance management, compensation, legislation, conflict, termination (and other human resources topics) it can be hard to know where to start. We are introducing a potential solution for those of you without HR in-house. MCAO is partnering with Dee Pipher, CHRL to offer HR support. If you would like to set up a 30 minute chat with Dee for HR advice, fill in THIS FORM to give some context. You will then be sent a link from Dee to set up a time through calendly.com. The cost of the 30 minute consult is covered by MCAO. More in depth consultations may need to be covered by the contractor organization. If your questions are of a legal nature, or are outside of the scope of HR, Dee may refer you to an employment lawyer.
December 18, 2024
Holiday Training Code Giveaway! – Waiting on Workplace Safety In honor of the holidays, we are thrilled to give away a large number of online BuildForce and Workplace Safety training courses to our members! All courses are self-paced, with BuildForce codes qualifying for gold seal certification credits. Courses include: BuildForce o Introduction to Construction Estimating o Construction Project Management Workplace Safety o Workplace Incident Investigation o Conflict Resolution If you would like to request any of the above codes, please contact our Operations Manager, Dylan, at dylan@mcao.org . Happy Holidays!
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