01 Direct Care Staffing Targets
The 2026 fiscal year marks the final push toward the 4-hour care standard. Licensees must demonstrate specific average care hours per resident, per day.
Nursing & PSW Target
4.0 Hours
Daily average per resident (Targeted by Mar 31, 2026)
Allied Health Target
36 Minutes
Physio, OT, and meaningful activity support.
02 "As of Right" Labor Mobility
Effective January 1, 2026
Out-of-province physicians and nurses are now registered under the Automatic Recognition Framework. Employers must ensure due diligence—validating out-of-province competency and site-specific hazard training within the first 30 days of hire.
- No requirement for "Canadian Experience" in job postings.
- AI in applicant screening must be explicitly disclosed.
03 Health & Safety Enforcement
Fire Code Deadline
Full sprinkler compliance or verified closure agreements must be finalized by July 1, 2026.
JHSC Certification
New hybrid learning standards for Joint Health & Safety Committees take effect July 1, 2026.
Key Reporting Dates
| Deadline | Report Type | Legislative Act |
|---|---|---|
| Mar 31, 2026 | EHT Annual Return | Employer Health Tax Act |
| Monthly | Occupational Health Inspections | OHSA Section 9 |
| July 1, 2026 | Washroom Cleaning Records | OHSA New Rule 2026 |