Summer 2011News, Views and Updates from the Electrical Safety Authority

Improving efficiency and reducing customer turnaround time

WWW.ESASAFE.COM 1-877-ESA-SAFE

2011 LEC Campaign a Success

Provisional Licensing Update

ESA Introduces Online Training5 6 8What’s

Inside

p.3

Plan Review

Dear ReadersWe hope you like the new look of Plugged In. It’s our goal to deliver an engaging newsletter that can help you do your job safely. We have evolved this newsletter to make it easier to find important information.

In making these changes we responded to your feedback. The majority of our readers have told us they prefer to still receive a hard copy newsletter. However if you’d like to receive an e-newsletter we are currently soliciting feedback on the option of providing an electronic version of the newsletter. We welcome all feedback. We are always looking for ways to better meet your needs.

You can reach us at: plugged.in@electricalsafety.on.ca

PlanReview

Technically Speaking

2011 LEC Campaign a Success

Provisional Licensing Update

Scores + Stats

Safety Alerts + Recalls

Online Training +Upcoming Events

Flood Damaged Equipment

what’s new

WWW.ESASAFE.COM 1-877-ESA-SAFE

Our Mission: To improve electrical safety for the well-being of the people of Ontario.

Our Vision: An Ontario free of electrical fatalities and serious injury, damage or loss.

INPLUGGED

The Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) has worked toimprove its communication efforts with its internaland external stakeholders - Plugged In is oneexample. Not only are we using it to keep you“plugged in” to updates on ESA initiatives, butseveral customers contacted us via email atplugged.in@electricalsafety.on.ca to providefeedback on the first edition of our newsletterand various ESA programs.

ESA uses other vehicles to exchangeinformation. In the fall 2005, we facilitated27 contractor information sessions acrossthe province, reaching 1,500+ contractors.At that same time we facilitated four focusgroups with contractors using a 3rd party consultant and identified 24 “top-of-mind”issues associated with ESA. We distributed 2,000copies of our annual Contractor Satisfaction Surveyin February. Moving forward, ESA is working with ourContractor Advisory Council (CoAC), the OEL, and the ECAOto establish a new forum and approach for this survey that incorporates input from our customer base. Representatives fromour management team are currently in the process of travelingaround the province to host “all-staff” meetings at which corporateperformance measures are reported, and strategic initiatives forthe next fiscal year are explained.

Information exchange is a valuable asset that assists us in developing inspection guidelines and programs to make it easierfor all stakeholders to comply with Ontario Electrical Safety Coderequirements. We encourage you to use every opportunity tosend us your feedback.

Page 2GettingConnected

Page 2TechnicalInsights

Page 3Don’t work onLIVE electricalequipment

Page 4Respect The Power

Stepping up two-way communication!

S P R I N G 2 0 0 6

Next Issue

• Contractor Licensing

• Contractor Satisfaction Survey - the results

• Contractor FAQ

1

2006 ElectricalInspection

Wiring Fees

www.esasafe.com1-877-esa-safe

INPLUGGEDO C T O B E R 2 0 0 8

New Code Updatepg 3

PowerlineAwareness campaign pg 6

Message from the Vice President,Regulatory Affairs . . . . . . . . . . . .2

Registrar’s Report on Licensing . .2

Bob’s Brief . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

New Code Update . . . . . . . . . . . .3

Technically Speaking . . . . . . . . . .4

Health & Safety Corner . . . . . .4, 5

Powerline Safety Awareness . . .6

Product Safety Recalls & Alerts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

Enforcement Update . . . . . . . . . .7

Inspection & Service Delivery . . .8

Upcoming Events . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

www.esasafe.com1-877-esa-safe

84170_Pellico_PluggedIN:Layout 1 11/14/08 11:43 AM Page 1

ZERO

CURRENT NEWS FROM THE ELECTRICAL SAFETY AUTHORITY WINTER 2010

www.esasafe.com 1-877-esa-safe

In this edition :

ESA launches Five Harm Reduction Strategy- page 3

Technically Speaking. . .When are defects written. . .- page 4

Independent Learning is coming. . .- page 5

ESA INTRODUCES ONTARIO ELECTRICAL

SAFETY AWARDS

GETTING TO

PREVENTING ELECTRICAL HARMS

Powerline Safety | Worker Safety | Product Safety

Aging Infrastructure | New Wiring Installations and Electrical Code

Summer 2011News, Views and Updates from the Electrical Safety Authority

Improving efficiency and reducing customer turnaround time

WWW.ESASAFE.COM 1-877-ESA-SAFE

2011 LEC Campaign a Success

Provisional Licensing Update

ESA Introduces Online Training5 6 8What’s

Inside

p.3

Plan Review

34566

2

Summer 2011

7

Front cover photo from left to right; Tony Titus, Project Manager, Technical Services and Normand Breton, General Manager, Harm Mitigation

8

4 • News, Views and Updates from ESA

technically speaking

Protecting circuits and apparatus against overloads and short-circuits

FOR CIRCUIT BREAKERS:

Rules 14-300 to 14-308 identify the types and construction of breakers that are required for overcurrent protection.

In addition, the following rules outline when overcurrent protection is required during installations:• Rule6-200statesthateachconsumer’sservicebeprovidedwitha

service box and it must have either fuses or breakers;• Rule14-100identifieswhenovercurrentprotectionisrequiredandwhere

it is to be located; • Rule28-200statesthateachungroundedconductorofamotorbranch

circuit must be protected by an overcurrent device complying with specific requirements for specific motor applications;

• Rule30-104statesthatluminaires,lampholdersandlightingtrackshallbe connected to a branch circuit protected by overcurrent devices with specific ratings for different types of installations.

All transformers should be protected by an individual overcurrent (fuse) device on the primary side. Requirements vary based on specific conditions and includes:• Rule26-252OvercurrentProtectionforPowerandDistributionTransformersRatedOver750V;

• Rule26-254OvercurrentProtectionforPowerandDistributionTransformersRated750VorLess,OtherThanDryTypeTransformers;

• Rule26-256OvercurrentProtectionforDry-TypeTransformersRated750VorLess;

• Rule14-012requiresthatovercurrentdevicesprotecttheinstallationfrom the available fault current and a fuse shall have the interrupting capacity, so that when a short circuit occurs the arc produced can be extinguished.

Rules 14-200 to 14-212 are dedicated to fuses and identify specific uses, types and ratings, including:• time delay fuse; • renewable fuse; • current limiting

fuse;• plug fuse;• standard

cartridge fuse.

When selecting the rating of an overcurrent device, always check the rating that the OESC allows for the specific applications. Different ratings defined in the OESC specifically respond to the requirement for overcurrent protection for specific devices (for example, lighting, motors, or transformers, etc.).

The protection of circuits and apparatus is a fundamental concept in the Ontario Electrical Safety Code (OESC). It ensures that electric circuits are protected by an overcurrent device. An overcurrent device is capable of automatically opening an electric circuit when it detects an overload or short-circuit, with either a fuse or circuit breaker, to ensure electrical safety. There are two types of overcurrent devices that are used to protect electrical circuits – one for fuses and one for circuit breakers.

OESC RATINGS:

FOR FUSES:

There are a number of rules in the OESC that reinforce the requirements for overcurrent protection.

• News, Views and Updates from ESA 5

15%62%

67%

The 2011 Licensed Electrical Contractor Campaign ran from February – March 2011. It was developed using consumer risk behaviour research and input from internal staff and stakeholder councils. In addition, eight consumer focus groups were conducted to test creative concepts and messaging.

The campaign focused on defining teachable moments with consumers contemplating an electrical change so as to remind them of the importance of hiring a Licensed Electrical Contractor. Radio ads

and billboards focused on increasing public awareness of the ‘Plug in Safely’ message and influencing consumer decisions to hire a Licensed Electrical Contractor.

The campaign included an aggressive media plan that reached more than nine million people in thetargetaudienceof25-45yearolds. The use of social media tools linked Google Ad Word with more than 200 words/phrases that targeted groups offering electrical services and various electrical products.

The ‘Plug in Safely’ message was promoted in rural markets by morethan83billboardsandpublicservice announcements. Radio ads targeted major urban centres across the province. The audience was driven to the ‘Plug in Safely’ landing page for more information, generating 6,100 visits.

Planning has begun for the 2012 campaign. Messages will continue to influence consumer behaviour to ensure safe electrical installations while strengthening consumers’ understanding of the distinction between an electrician and Licensed Electrical Contractor.

Homeowners get the message – it’s safer to hire a licensed electrical contractor

Campaign Objectives

to BUILD public awareness of the benefits of hiring a Licensed Electrical Contractor

to HEIGHTEN consumers and DIY electrical risk awareness

to TARGET two key audiences (ages 25-45)

- those hiring someone to do electrical work

- those planning on doing their own electrical work

1

LEC Campaign a Success

23

Campaign Results

Summary of consumer reach conducted mid-March to April 2011

of consumers recalled the LEC ads

were aware of licensing requirements

indicated campaign information would influence their decision to hire a Licensed Electrical Contractor

6 • News, Views and Updates from ESA

scores + stats JAN1,2011toMAR31,2011

In early June, the Ministry of Consumer Services passed an amendment to Ontario Regulation 570/05to recognize the 434A Powerline Technician Certificate of Qualification (C of Q) as an accepted qualification to obtain a Master Electrician Licence. As a result,434APowerlineTechnicianswho have a valid Master Electrician Licence will have an opportunity to move into Ontario’s Electrical Contractor licensing system with conditions and limitations.

If you hold a Provisional Electrical Contractor Licence that limits your company to performing electrical work that includes, but isn’t limited to pole line, high voltage/substation maintenance, utility, street lighting and roadway lighting systems, you will be permitted to renew your provisional licence until November

Important Licensing Information

Wiring inspection servicesCalls to Harm Reduction Services (HRS) 107,638

Inspections 110,551

Defects recorded 56,485

Notifications created electronically 27%

GeneralInspections(Z8) 4,020

ACP Contractors 2,757

Wiring compliance and enforcementHazard Investigation Requests (Z7) 3,830

NoticesofViolation 228

Preventing hazards and harmsCSS customers (23,941sites) 3,787

Product safetyReported Electrical Product Safety Incidents 921

Recalls 67

Safety materials distributedReach of Powerline and Worker Safety, LEC Campaign

21.5Million

Licensing managementLicensed Electrical Contractors 7,047

Master Electricians 10,277

Complaints received 158

Complaints resolved 32

Electrical distribution managementDistribution-related incidents 183

Due Diligence Inspections 47

OnDecember31,2011theprovisional licensing program will end. This means the five-year transitional period for electrical contractors who are currently operating their business with a Provisional Electrical Contractor Licence will end on the date when their licence expires in 2011. At the 2011 date of expiry, electrical contractors must designate a Master Electrician to their business and file an application for an Electrical Contractor Licence to continue providing electrical contracting services in Ontario.

The Electrical Safety Authority offers a Pre-Master Electrician course. The course prepares individuals for the Master Electrician Exam. For a list of Pre-Master Electrician courses visit www.esasafe.com.

Changes for 434A Powerline TechniciansTo become a full Licensed Electrical Contractor, provisional licence holders must submit a Transitional Form to the Electrical Safety Authority after doing one of the following:

Becoming a Master Electrician.

Hiring and designating a Master Electrician.

Designating a Master Electrician who already works for your company.

123

Provisional Licensing Program Coming to an End

• News, Views and Updates from ESA 7

RCL11-22 Fusion Products Ltd. Recalls 30ft Retractable Worklight with Reel

The worklight is not approved for use in Canada. This product was sold by Princess Auto, First Place Auto Parts Ltd., Darpro and Tenaquip.

RCL11-15 Liebherr Recalls Built-In Refrigerators Due to Injury Hazard; Door Can Detach

The refrigerator’s door can detach, posing an injury hazard to consumers. Refrigerators were sold individually or as side-by-side companion units. The refrigerators come in stainless steel and various custom finishes and are built into the kitchen cabinetry. “Liebherr” is written on the top interior control panel. The model number can be found on a label located behind the bottom drawer on the left interior side of the single door refrigerator.

RCL11-24 One World Technologies, Inc. Recalls Ryobi Sheet Sanders Due to Laceration Hazard

Pieces of the fan can break off from the fan assembly and be ejected from the product posing a laceration hazard to consumers. Approximately3,800unitsweresoldinCanada.

30,2015.Thiswillgiveyoutime to obtain your Master Electrician Licence or designate a Master Electrician to your business and file for an Electrical Contractor Licence with limitations, conditions and exceptions.

The regulation change took effect on July 1, 2011. After July 1, 2011, anyone whoholdsa434APowerlineTechni-cian Certificate of Qualification can write the Master Electrician exam, apply for a Master Electrician Licence and apply for a full Electrical Contractor Licence if they meet all other licence requirements in the Licensing Regulation.

If you hold a Provisional Electrical Contractor Licence that limits the type of electrical work your business candowithinthescopeofa434APowerline Technician and you would

like to continue to provide electrical contracting services in Ontario, here’s what’s required to transition to an Electrical Contractor Licence with limitations, conditions and exceptions:

1.Obtaina434APowerline Technician C of Q, hire an individual thatholdsa434APowerlineTechnician C of Q or have one of your current employees obtain the 434APowerlineTechnicianCofQ.This can be completed over the five year(July2011–2016)transitionalperiod. Please contact the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities.

2. Once you or your employee has hadthe434APowerlineTechnicianC of Q for at least three years, they can write the Master Electrician Exam.

Important Licensing Information

3. Once you or your employee obtains the Master Electrician Licence, you can designate them to your business and transition into the full licensing system.

For more information on the Provisional Contractor Licence please visit www.esasafe.com or contact ESA’s Licensing departmentat1-877-372-7233,menuoption#3.

safety alerts + recalls

Changes for 434A Powerline TechniciansIf you would like to learn more about the certification process for a 434A Powerline Technician C of Q, please contact the Ministry of Training, Colleges, and Universities apprenticeship office by calling the Employment Ontario Hotline (toll-free:1-800-387-5656;Toronto:416-326-5656; TTY:1-866-533-6339or 416-325-4084)orgoto www.tcu.gov.on.ca.

8 • News, Views and Updates from ESA

Please send your comments or story ideas to plugged.in@electricalsafety.on.caWe’d like your input

If you’re looking for a Pre-Master course that fits with your busy schedule our NEW online course may be just what you’re looking for. ESA has expanded the training platform to offer the Pre-Master course online and through self-study. Developed in collaboration with CSA, ESA’s online training offers increased flexibility and reach. Most importantly, it allows us to respond to the needs of our diverse customer groups.

ESA’s online and self-study optionsOnline training delivers course material through computer-based training. Participants can progress through the Pre-Master training course at their own pace using a variety of educational support materials including visual aids, audio, multimedia, quizzes and the ability to link to internet resources.

Self-study will allow participants to review an ESA Pre-Master Student Manual by reading one module per week and completing a weekly quiz. This option is limited to learners accessing a weekly quiz answer key posted on www.esasafe.com.

Online options work for those who: •havework/lifecommitmentsthat

require a flexible learning schedule;•prefercompletingindividual

module quizzes online with automated marking;

•benefitfromonlinepracticeteststoprepare for the ECRA of the ESA Master Electrician Examination.

Registration is now open For more information and to register visit www.esasafe.com. Please note that one day following course enrollment, your online training option will be available and will remain active for 90 days.

The self-study course begins September 9, 2011. Registration for the course will be accepted up to three business days before the session start date.

ESA’s online training options are cost competitive ESA’s online Pre-Master course, including the Pre-Master Student Manual,costs$499+HST.Thecostof the self-study Pre-Master course, including the Pre-Master Student Manual,costs$350+HST.

In addition to the online learning options, ESA is continuing to offer the Pre-Master Electrician course in the classroom environment. For more information on ESA’s course offerings or to purchase the course manual contact ESA’s Harm Reduction Servicesat1-877-372-7233 (1-877-ESA-SAFE)oremailesa.cambridge@electricalsafety.on.ca.

ESA Introduces Online Pre-Master Electrician course

Upcoming Events2011 Achievements in Electrical Safety Event (including Ontario Electrical Safety Awards presentation)Date: September 22, 2011 Time:4:30pm–6:30pmLocation: Living Arts Centre,

RBC Theatre, 4141LivingArtsDr.,Mississauga

2011 ESA Annual General MeetingDate: September 22, 2011Time:3:00pm–4:00pmLocation: Living Arts Centre,

Bank of Montreal Room, 4141LivingArtsDr.,Mississauga

New Online Option

Consultations on Amendments to the Ontario Electrical Safety Code (OESC)

ESA is conducting public consultations for proposed changes to Ontario Amendments for the 2012 Ontario Electrical Safety Code. These consultations include the technical/ administrative changes and changes to Rule2-005.

Please visit www.esasafe.com for more information on the consultation process.

Licence Holder Meetings

Mississauga Date: September 21, 2011 Time: 1:00pmto4:00pm Location: Mississauga Grand

35BrunelRoad Sudbury Date: October 20, 2011Time: 1:00pmto4:00pmLocation: Ambassador Hotel

225FalconbridgeRoad

WWW.ESASAFE.COM 1-877-ESA-SAFE