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Electrical Industry Take Note: 27th Edition of the Ontario Electrical Safety Code Effective Today May 16, 2019The newest edition – an essential tool for any electrical work – MISSISSAUGA, ON, May 16, 2019 /CNW/ - The latest edition of the Ontario Electrical Safety Code (OESC) – the legal standard with which all electrical work in Ontario must comply – comes into effect today, May 16, and includes important new safety requirements. Electrical work conducted on notifications (or plan review submittals) taken out after today must meet the updated requirements. The new edition of the OESC includes the Canadian Electrical Code, Part I plus several Ontario-specific amendments. This new edition includes changes designed to enhance electrical safety and protect workers and the public including:
"Revisions to the Ontario Electrical Safety Code are made through a broad consultative process at both the provincial and national levels, and through the collaboration of ESA and its safety partners. The updated Code harmonizes the Ontario requirements with the rest of Canada," says Nansy Hanna, Director of Engineering and Program Development, Regulatory and Safety Programs, Electrical Safety Authority. In addition to prescriptive amendments and rules regarding instructions for safe electrical installations, the OESC also contains requirements regarding notifications. Specifically, almost all electrical work requires a notification. In Ontario, only a Licensed Electrical Contractor is legally allowed to be hired for electrical work, and only homeowners or occupants are able to conduct electrical work in their own home. And although homeowners and occupants are legally allowed to do electrical work in their own home, ESA strongly encourages hiring a Licensed Electrical Contractor – and it's important to ensure the required electrical notification are being taken out. A notification creates a permanent record of the electrical work and triggers a review of the work by ESA. Once the electrical work is complete, it is imperative to ask for an ESA Certificate of Inspection for resale and insurance purposes, as well as peace of mind. To learn more about Ontario's legal requirements for electrical installations, for frequently asked questions about the Ontario Electrical Safety Code, or to purchase a copy, visit www.esasafe.com/2018oesc. About the Electrical Safety Authority SOURCE Electrical Safety Authority |