Work exoskeletons in Canada in 2025

Exoskeletons are no longer seen as futuristic technologies reserved for large high-tech factories. In Canada, their adoption is steadily progressing in sectors where physical demands are high and where musculoskeletal injuries (MSIs) remain the leading cause of workers' compensation.

This article provides a clear picture: where Canada stands today, which industries are adopting these technologies, how provincial organizations regulate their use, and why interest is surging now.

1. Adoption Rate by Industry

The adoption of exoskeletons varies across sectors, but several national trends are emerging:

Construction

The construction sector is among the most advanced. The needs are clear: repeated lifting, prolonged bending, arms-in-the-air positions. Passive exoskeletons for the back and arms are particularly sought after to reduce fatigue and chronic injuries.
Large Canadian construction companies are already testing these solutions in their prevention programs.

Manufacturing and Aerospace

This sector was among the first to test exoskeletons, inspired by giants like Toyota, GM, or Boeing. Repetitive tasks, sustained pace, and job rotation create an ideal context for the integration of exoskeletons for arms and back.

Logistics and Warehousing

With the rise of online commerce, distribution centers are facing an increase in physical workload. The adoption of exoskeletons in logistics centers primarily aims to:

• reduce MSIs,

• improve worker comfort,

• decrease turnover.

Models for the back and repetitive bending are the most deployed.

Health and Care

This sector is beginning its transition. Nurses, aides, and technicians perform numerous lifts, pushes, and transfers. Passive lumbar exoskeletons are starting to be introduced into hospital ergonomics programs.
Trials are also underway for walking assist exoskeletons in rehabilitation settings.

Mining

Mining companies, very proactive in prevention, are increasingly interested in exoskeletons to support workers in demanding environments: prolonged bending, arms-in-the-air tasks, carrying loads. Their adoption follows an upward trend.

2. Role of the CNESST, WorkSafeBC and WSIB

Provincial organizations do not directly regulate exoskeletons, but they play an essential role in their safe adoption.

CNESST (Quebec)

The CNESST encourages innovation in prevention as long as it is part of a structured approach. Exoskeletons are viewed as:

• complementary technical aids,

• to be integrated into a task analysis,

• used without increasing the load or pace.

The CNESST emphasizes the importance of choosing an appropriate model and training personnel.

WorkSafeBC (British Columbia)

WorkSafeBC stands out for its proactive approach to ergonomics. The organization recognizes exoskeletons as tools that can support a strategy for preventing MSIs, provided that:

• the initial risk is validated,

• the actual effect of the exoskeleton on movement is analyzed,

• there is follow-up with workers.

WorkSafeBC encourages structured field trials.

WSIB (Ontario)

The WSIB observes the evolution of these technologies as a potential lever for reducing injury-related costs. Companies integrating exoskeletons into their prevention programs may benefit from:

• a decrease in claims,

• an indirect reduction in their long-term premiums.

The organization stresses the importance of ergonomic evaluation before integration.

3. Evolution of Regulation and Ergonomic Expectations

Even though no Canadian regulation specifically addresses exoskeletons, several regulatory trends are emerging:

a) Greater Accountability for Employers

Provinces are increasingly requiring that companies demonstrate:

• that they have attempted to reduce risks at the source,

• that they use appropriate equipment to limit MSIs,

• that they document their ergonomic initiatives.

b) Increased Importance of Task Analysis

Authorities expect to see:

• structured trials,

• ergonomic observations,

• validation that the exoskeleton truly improves the situation.

c) Integration into OH&S Programs

Exoskeletons are now considered:

• complementary tools to traditional solutions,

• requiring training, supervision, and adjustments.

d) International Standardization

Canada is gradually aligning with European and American standards regarding the safe use of exoskeletons.

4. Why Companies are Starting Now

Several factors explain the acceleration of adoption in Canada:

1. Labor Shortage

Companies are looking for solutions to:

• reduce fatigue,

• extend the careers of their employees,

• attract and retain talent.

2. Increase in Musculoskeletal Injuries

MSIs account for more than 40% of claims nationwide.
Exoskeletons are becoming a new way to act in prevention.

3. Measurable Return on Investment

Exoskeletons:

• reduce work stoppages,

• improve comfort,

• increase productivity,

• decrease staff turnover.

4. Technological Maturity

New models are:

• lighter,

• more comfortable,

• more intuitive,

• more affordable.

This is no longer science fiction: it is an ergonomic work tool.

5. Regulatory Pressure and OH&S Expectations

Employers are increasingly called upon to act before an injury occurs, not after.

Conclusion

Canada is entering a phase of structured and coherent adoption of exoskeletons.
Companies are no longer asking whether they should explore these technologies, but rather how to integrate them effectively.

Exoskeletons do not replace workers.
They support their strength, health, and professional longevity.