New version of the Ontario Electrical Safety Code

If you don't feel like paying $219 plus tax for the printed version of the new code - $195 for the PDF - you can find the amendments for free on the ESA website

If you are an Ontario contractor, you need to know that a new version of the Ontario Electrical Safety Code (OESC) came into effect on May 5, 2016.

The OESC is the legal standard for all electrical work in Ontario. The revised code shows advancements in safety to help make everyone safer and hopefully reduce accidents or even tragedies.

This year’s OESC code book comes with the CSA (Canadian Standards Association) name on it. Apparently, there are savings with this year’s partnership between the two authorities. Still, it’s an expensive publication. The hard copy costs $219.00 (plus tax) and a PDF version is only slightly less at $195.00 (plus tax) info.

TIP: If you want to find the code amendments for free, simply go to the ESA website.

It’s good that the CSA are out there testing everything from electrical devices to fall arrest harnesses. The CSA is, thankfully, a meticulous agency. They don’t just put their accreditation on entire pieces of equipment, but on many sub-components. For example, a fall arrest body harness will have a d-ring and other tie off connections on it, including buckles to tie you into the harness. Each one of those components will have separate CSA logos on the them. The CSA’s trade mark appears on millions of products from around the world. Ringing the cash register each time. But keeping us all safer.

Remember, don’t work with electricity, unless you are licensed to do so.