February 6, 2012 – CSA Standards’ 2012 Canadian Electrical Code (CEC), Part 1, is now available. 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 – including future-looking developments toward sustainable technologies that help address climate change issues, as well as several considerations addressing the safety of Canada’s children.

Other changes includes change requirements for splash pads, electric heat controls in bathrooms, grounding conductor size, and conductor ampacities.

New and updated sections focus on renewable energy sources, such as solar photovoltaic (PV) installations and wind-generated electricity, new requirements for electric vehicles and home-based vehicle charging stations, and 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, CSA Standards. “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.”

According to the organization, up to 800 people experience workplace electrical accidents each year in Canada, and 53% of electrical incidents causing injury are from working on live electrical equipment.

“The strides CSA Standards is making toward the development of standards and codes for renewable energy and sustainable technologies, such as the new 2012 Canadian Electrical Code, will help make these technologies safer and provide Canadians with more choices for sustainable energy sources as demand for these products by environmentally conscious Canadians continues to grow,” said Bob Oliver, CEO of Pollution Probe, a national, non-profit organization that aims to improve the health and well-being of Canadians by advancing policy for tangible environmental change.

The 2012 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 standard is available for sale HERE, by calling toll free 1-800-463-6727 or via email at sales@csa.ca.