Electrical code goes interactive with electronic version

CSA Group, a standards development organization and a global provider of testing and certification services, has released the 2015 Canadian Electrical Code (CE Code), Part 1 — the 23rd edition of Canada’s primary standard for electrical installations. The 2015 edition includes more than 200 updates and revisions, and is offered in a new interactive version that provides users with an enhanced ability to locate, interpret and calculate requirements of the code on a tablet or phone.

“CSA Group is looking to modernize the way we develop and offer standards. Our new interactive version of the CE Code allows people to reference the document from their phone or tablet,” says Gianluca Arcari, executive director, standards, and vice-president, CSA Group. “Users can now easily access and find the relevant sections on a portable device while they are on the job. This is just one of the ways we are changing to meet the needs of our clients. Most importantly, these changes will help workers to easily access information that helps make everyone safer.”

New and extensively updated sections focus on renewable energy, electric heating and hazardous locations classifications. Renewable energy systems are now covered in one section, and requirements for photovoltaic systems have been merged with requirements for renewable energy systems, such as wind and hydrokinetic. There are also significant updates reflecting the latest technologies and safety features for occupants and first responders.

The updated code now changes Section 18, hazardous locations, to focus exclusively on the zone system of classification. The section has been revised to introduce the IEC classification for locations containing explosive dust atmospheres, such as grain elevators and flour mills.

Another important change is to the section on electric heating. Installation requirements for electric heating equipment have been rationalized and grouped into general rules, where appropriate. New requirements have been added for skin-effect trace heating systems and heating systems by Class 1 extra-low voltage power circuits.

The Canadian Electrical Code, Part I is an integral part of the Canadian Electrical Safety System that helps keep Canadians safe from harm. It 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).

To learn more about the 2015 Canadian Electrical Code, Part I, contact CSA Group. 

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