In January, CSA Standards announced the 2012 Canadian Electrical Code (CEC) - Part 1. The 2012 CEC is the 22nd edition of Canada's primary standard for electrical installations and includes more than 180 updates and revisions - the most comprehensive set of changes ever to the CEC.
New and extensively updated sections focus on renewable energy sources, such as solar photovoltaic installations and wind-generated electricity, new requirements for electric vehicles and home-based vehicle charging stations, as well as tamper-resistant receptacles for child care facilities.
"New sustainable technologies such as electric vehicles, solar panels and power generating wind turbines have never been more prevalent," said Bonnie Rose, President, Standards, CSA Group. "With major manufacturers bringing these products to market in greater numbers, they can no longer be considered simply emerging technologies, but part of our daily lives. Electrical safety surrounds Canadians every minute of every day, and CSA's 2012 Canadian Electrical Code is grounded in sustainability and safety improvements that will undoubtedly have a positive impact on future generations."
The 2012 CEC makes tamper-resistant receptacles in child care facilities mandatory. Unless otherwise defined by a regulatory authority having jurisdiction, this requirement for electric vehicles and home-based vehicle charging stations, as well as tamper-resistant receptacles for child care facilities.
About the 2012 Canadian Electrical Code, Part I
According to an annual report published by the Association of Workers' Compensation Boards of Canada, each year in Canada, up to 800 people experience electrical accidents in the workplace. The CEC Part I covers the installation and maintenance of electrical equipment for operation at all voltages in buildings, structures, and premises (including factory-built relocatable and non-relocatable structures).
The 2012 Canadian Electrical Code, Part I, includes numerous updates:
- Splash pads: Splash pads are now classified as pools, and the CEC mandates protection such as ground fault circuit interrupters where applicable.
- Roof top outlets: New commercial or industrial buildings will require a roof-top receptacle in order to help heating ventilation and air-conditioning technicians to safely maintain roof top equipment using power tools.
- Outdoor outlets: New "in-use" weatherproof covers will be required to protect outdoor receptacles from wet weather, even when electrical devices are plugged in.
The standard is available for sale online at http://shop.csa.ca, by calling toll free 1-800-463-6727 or via email at sales@csa.ca. To support organizations in understanding and implementing the extensive changes contained in the 2012 Canadian Electrical Code, CSA offers a variety of CEC-related publications, resources and training tools designed to help advance the use of new or updated electrical installation practices contained in the new code. From new calculation tools and updated smart standards, to study guides for apprentices and CE Code Update training, CSA has a variety of options available. CSA has also developed an interactive social media hub specific to the CEC at www.knowthecode2012.com.
