Electrical Safety Code Ontario Explained

The Ontario Electrical Safety Code (OESC), or, Ontario Regulation 169/99, is the electrical safety regulation for the Province of Ontario. This code protects electrical workers and the general public by regulating electrical equipment installations and by placing a certain level of standards that help prevent electrical accidents caused from electric shock and fire hazards. For example, the OESC outlines specific electrical safety requirements for wiring and equipment in structures and buildings in Ontario. If wiring isn’t done correctly or electrical workers don’t take the proper precautions when the installation is taking place, then electrical accidents can occur. The Ontario Electrical Safety Code is referenced by the Canadian Electrical Code that contains specific amendments made by the Province of Ontario. Continual updates of the Ontario Electrical Safety Code are also done in conjunction with the Canadian Electrical Code.

Electrical Safety Code Ontario – Who is responsible for the OESC?
The Ministry of Consumer Services, a department within the Provincial Government of Ontario, is responsible for the Ontario Electrical Safety Code. However, the Ministry of Consumer Services has empowered the Electrical Safety Authority, a private organization separate from the government, to enforce the Ontario Electrical Safety Code.

Electrical Safety Code Ontario – Who makes the updates to the OESC?
Amendments to the Ontario Electrical Safety Code are produced by the Electrical Safety Authority. The ESA participates in national committees to examine changing technologies and accident reports to determine what electrical safety standards should be changed and what new electrical safety standards should be added to the Ontario Electrical Safety Code.

The ESA then prepares amendments, which are then presented to Ontario’s provincial government for approval. Amendments are made to the OESC every four years.

The last set of amendments was made to the Ontario Electrical Safety Code in 2009. Electrical safety requirements changed for hazardous locations practices, grounding and bonding practices, installations of electrical equipment, among others.

Electrical Safe Code Ontario – Where can I get a copy of the OESC handbook?
The Ontario Electrical Safety Code is published by the Electrical Safety Authority that’s available for purchase on esasafe.com.