Canadian Electrical Code Changes You Need To Know

The Standards Council of Canada or SCC has accredited changes for approved electrical equipment in Canada. The changes have taken effect this year (2015) and the changes affect the electrical industry nationally, regionally and internationally. Electric standardization helps boost Canada’s competitiveness and safeguard the health and safety of its citizens.

If you want to get technical the following article outlines the revisions and new installation requirements. Deliberations of the changes have ended but general debates continue, what do you think?

http://electricalindustry.ca/latest-news/641-2015-ce-code-changes-on-approved-electrical-equipment

The Canadian Electrical Code and Standardization

Standardization is important, here is an excerpt from the above article…

“Standards development is extremely important and recognizing those standards that have been in use for decades to certify equipment now allows the electrical industry to fully understand the scope of what goes into certified equipment.  The process of standards development is intended to deliver standards that will:

• Advance the national economy;

• Support sustainable development;

• Benefit the health, safety and welfare of workers and the public;

• Assist and protect consumers;

• Facilitate domestic and international trade; and

• Further international cooperation in relation to standardization”

Here at Civic Recycling we want to keep you up to date with news from the electrical industry and facts that help you make informed decisions. Such as Canadian Electrical Codes and topics that affect you and your business. Do you want to see us write about a specific topic? Let us know what you would like to see us blog about.

Read some of our previous posts below:

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Reconditioned Circuit breakers: Are they safe?

Civic Recycling has PEARL Certified Technicians

Electric Innovation and Action in Canada

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Thanks for reading about Canadian Electrical Code changes. We make sure we are up to date on the changing landscape in Canada. Civic Recycling is also a part of PEARL (Professional Electrical Apparatus Recyclers League), NEMA (National Electrical Manufacturers Association), IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) and NETA (InterNational Electrical Testing Association).

Reconditioned Circuit Breakers - Are They Safe?

Sometimes a governmental safety alert is publicized, and it gets people talking and rumours spreading regarding the safety of a certain product or sometimes even the practices of an entire industry. The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA), a division of the United States Department of Labor, released such an alert in the fall of 2011. Entitled Incorrectly Refurbished Circuit Breakers, the alert describes how a third-party electronic equipment rebuilder modified certain Eaton/Cutler-Hammer moulded-case circuit breakers while incorrectly refurbishing them. Some of the safety issues cited regarding these third-party 600 volt and 1000 volt suspect breakers include:

• Circuit breakers have been altered from the original manufacturer’s design

• The rebuilder reproduced exterior labels on cases in an attempt to make them look new and authentic

• Frames for both 600-volt and 1000-volt units contain parts of unknown origin and specs

• 1000-volt covers may have been assembled onto units rated at only 600 volts

• Breakers show no indication of having been approved by a nationally recognized testing organization

Conclusion: These knock-off, counterfeit, bogus breakers are a safety risk and should not be used, due to their inherent danger. OSHA recommended pulling them out of service as soon as possible.

Reconditioned Circuit Breaker - Safe to Use?

Because of instances like this, some have questioned the safety of buying and utilizing a reconditioned circuit breaker. The fact is, not only are properly reconditioned circuit breakers safe but in some instances may be even safer than new ones. This is evidenced by the number of brand-new units that have been recalled by their manufacturers as a result of improper performance or risk of fire danger. You can see examples of some of these recalls here.

Here at Civic Recycling, we pride ourselves on our unrelenting attention to detail and dedication to providing unparalleled quality in all our products and services. For more than two decades we’ve brought our customers only the best and that’s certainly helped us in becoming Canada’s number one circuit breaker provider, offering not only the largest selection anywhere but also giving fair and reasonable prices that save our clients money every day.

The Ultimate in Recycling - Circuit Breaker Reconditioning

Reconditioning electrical equipment has been called the ultimate form of recycling. It’s not only good for the environment, but it’s good for your business and your bottom line too. Companies have been using our reconditioned circuit breakers for decades with total confidence. The importance of having the equipment reconditioned by a qualified, certified firm, however, cannot be overstated.

Our highly-trained, PEARL-certified technicians are experts at disassembling, cleaning, analyzing, reassembling and then performing testing and conducting the final inspection on all types of electrical equipment, circuit breakers included. Each circuit breaker we refurbish goes out the door with a written test report, a unique, associated tracking number and a 100%, unconditional, one-year guarantee.

PEARL, which stands for Professional Electrical Apparatus Recyclers League, has become an important force in the industry since its inception in 1997. We wholeheartedly subscribe to their stated mission of bringing the desired distinction of quality, safety and integrity to their members’ customers, with the safety of the end user representing their #1 priority.

Reconditioned Circuit Breaker from Civic Recycling – A Good Idea

Our testing and reconditioning procedures meet or exceed standards set out by PEARL, NEMA (National Electrical Manufacturers Association), IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) and NETA (InterNational Electrical Testing Association).

Having PEARL-certified technicians in house here at Civic Recycling sets us totally apart from all others in Canada. PEARL is an ANSI-accredited Standards Developer. ANSI, or the American National Standards Institute, was established in 1918 and has been setting industry standards longer than any organization.

Jobs in the Electrical Industry: What’s Available?

Electrical Industry in Alberta

Canada is currently facing a shortage of workers in certain skilled trades, including jobs in the electrical industry, as many of the individuals now working as skilled electricians are facing retirement. According to one study, the average age for Canada’s skilled electricians is close to 50 years, and as greater numbers of workers leave the trade, this will increase demand for new, trained individuals to fill that void. This will be especially true in areas that are experiencing high rates of new construction, such as Alberta.

At the top of the list in 2014’s Canada’s Best Jobs, a job as a licensed, certified electrical contractor can be extremely beneficial. Typical salaries have shown double-digit increases in the last few years, with average journeyman wages now hovering near the $35/per hour mark. After completing a 4-year apprentice program that’s a mixture of classroom and on-the-job (OJT) training, a certified electrician can find work with any number of construction, manufacturing or service companies and make a good living.

If you possess entrepreneurial desires, starting your own one- or two-person electrical company can prove even more profitable, although, as a business owner, take-home salaries will vary. For those wanting to get employment as a certified electrician with an established firm, there are positions available across the country, many of which offer great benefits such as retirement, medical/dental, vision, online education/development reimbursement, employee discounts and more. 

Canada’s Aging Electric Infrastructure Spells Opportunity

The occupation of an industrial electrician is one of the listings on the POL, or Canadian Priority Occupation List, which details occupations currently deemed in high demand by the Canadian government due to a national shortage of skilled workers now available. By all accounts, those possessing the necessary qualifications should continue to be in demand as The Canadian Electricity Association’s Vision 2050 brings to light the need for sweeping upgrades in the nation’s aging electric system.

These ongoing upgrades, which it’s now apparent are vitally important if the electric producers/distributors are going to be able to keep up with ever-increasing user demand, requires the skills of trained electric workers.

Industrial Electrician Specialization Options

Those opting for a career in the electric industry have lots of choices; however, with an industrial electrician on the government’s Priority Occupations List, this has become a popular option. With a median income of more than $66,000 and, according to Canadian Business Magazine, a wage and employment growth in the next five years estimated at 14% and 22%, respectively, industrial electricians are needed and paid well for their contribution to the skilled workforce. 

Jobs in the Electrical Industry by Position

Some of the many positions held by industrial electricians include work in:

• Shipyards or other marine environments

• Aviation

• Electric power production and delivery

• Mills

• Manufacturing plants

• Mines

• Oil and gas exploration and recovery, and more

As a trained electrician, you should possess the ability to install, maintain, repair and test all types of electric systems, including electronic control units, transformers, generators, regulators, switchgear, etc. You should also be capable of reading and interpreting blueprints, drawings, schematics and specifications set out by the code. This is just a small part of what may be required of an industrial engineer. Someone in this position may also be required to institute a comprehensive preventative maintenance program and to maintain accurate records reflecting all maintenance work done.

With so many additional facets making up today’s national electric system, including renewable resource development and new requirements for efficiency and sustainability, employment within the industry seems a sure bet. Here at Civic Recycling we employ certified electricians for our own testing and production requirements. The need for this type of skilled worker shouldn’t go away.

Civic Recycling Has PEARL Certified Technicians

The PEARL Certification is for reconditioning technicians who inspect, test and recondition electrical equipment to ensure safe performance and reliability.

Civic Recycling Employs Pearl Certified Technicians

Congratulations to Rennee and Mike for their recent certifications. They are, in fact, Canada’s first PEARL Certified Technicians for reconditioned electrical products! We are glad to have them on our team, providing quality tests daily.

In 2009 Civic Recycling became the first electrical dealer in Canada to employ Certified Breaker Technicians. In 2010 we began reconditioning, testing and providing written test results for the MCCBs we sell, again a first in Canada. Once again, Civic Recycling is blazing a trail and setting the standard in our industry by having our technicians PEARL Certified.

PEARL Standards are important

We test our equipment based on the PEARL standards and follow strict quality control guidelines. We are so confident in the professionally reconditioned equipment we sell, that we provide a one-year warranty on every electrical product we sell.

Electrical Equipment and Floods, What To Do?

We know that water and electrical equipment don’t mix well. But what happens when circumstances beyond our control get in the way of a functioning electricity grid?

Civic Recycling was on the front lines of the 2013 flood in Calgary. We helped countless businesses get back online after the water ruined electrical equipment such as breakers, motors, transformers and fuses. We are proud to be there for Canadians in tough times and at all times.

Floods and Electrical Equipment

So what do you do if you find yourself in a flood situation? Whether its a sewer backup, huge rainfall in your area or a more widespread catastrophe like in 2013…you should know how to stay safe when returning home. Read how to Minimize Electrical Hazards Before and After a Flood.

“Moisture, debris and contaminants in flood-damaged equipment or appliances can sometimes be hidden and cause serious risks.”

For more safety tips, read more from Municipal Affairs Alberta: Electrical Tips for Returning to Your Home or Business After a Flood.

“The inspection of your electric service begins at the service entrance and proceeds through the meter base, main switch panelboards and branch circuit breakers. This basic equipment must be safe before reconnecting the power. Electric circuit breakers, GFCIs, and fuses that have been submerged must also be replaced. Water and silt inside the devices can prevent them from performing properly as safety devices and can cause electrical shorts or mechanical malfunctions.”

The British Columbia Safety Authority also released a great PDF on post-flood protocol: Emergency Flood Protocol for Re-Energizing Electrical and Gas Equipment.

“For customer services, the breakers only need replacement if the rest of the panel has been cleaned, dried, connections redone, and has been meggared clear to ground. Note that wetted molded-case circuit breakers cannot be reused.”

Electric Innovation and Action in Canada

Canadians are beginning to look at energy differently these days, with thoughts about scarcity and dependence on expensive, imported oil giving way to more of a feeling of abundance. This is partly because of new technologies being developed that have allowed for the uncovering of once-hidden underground resources of gas and oil that, in its discovery, has had an effect on the entirety of the interdependent, interconnected Canadian energy market. Electric Innovation iss becoming ever more important.

And, while the development of new energy resources such as the reclamation of shale oil from deep underground and the collection of vital solar energy from the sun’s rays are making big strides right now in the energy sector, it’s still electricity that’s king. Electricity not only powers our homes, factories and offices, it’s also central to providing the power needed to fuel most of these other energy pursuits.

The point is, Canada’s electric utilities are being called on by customers to deliver an ever-increasing amount of power generation at reasonable prices and to operate in ways that are sustainable, environmentally friendly and socially responsive. All this is needed while relying on an electricity infrastructure close to the end of its expected life and with the cost of modernization and renewal of the electric system being in the hundreds of billions of dollars.

Electric Innovation is Key

Electrical innovation is desperately needed in the industry right now to prepare for the future when our children and grandchildren will be the ones depending on our now antiquated electric system. Hydroelectric projects that were completed one hundred years ago have run their course, are at the end of a long and fruitful life expectancy, and require serious upgrading in both “hardware and software.”

Electrical innovation must also, out of necessity, deal with matters not even considered a generation or two ago. Two of the primary drivers in the current fashioning of our future electric system regard the lowering of greenhouse gases and strengthening the system against severe weather events and ongoing climate change. Other factors in the minds of those making important decisions related to the immediate needs of Canada’s electrical system deal with potential terrorist threats and also the increasing popularity in the use of electric vehicles.

The system is consistently being asked to provide more service with fewer financial resources, causing customer costs to rise along the way. Electrical innovation can no longer be accepted at the past low levels that have barely (if even) kept up with demand. However, technological advancements can only be capitalized upon when there’s funding available for refurbishment and modernization. 

Our Pledge to Progress

Here at Civic Recycling, electricity is our business and most of the clients with whom we deal on a regular basis are also dependent upon the industry for their livelihoods. We see ourselves as ahead of the curve in several aspects currently being discussed by those involved in the Canadian Electricity Association’s (CEA) Vision 2050. Our efforts at recycling and reconditioning used and obsolete circuit breakers, switches, motor control and transformers do a great deal to benefit the environment.

Our service saves solid waste facilities from having to deal with more stuff coming in, and those using our reconditioned electrical equipment won’t be going out to buy new products. Thus reducing new manufacturing output, in both materials and pollution.

Another important point made by CEA in their Vision 2050 is the need to take advantage of new technologies in order to “do more with less.”  Here at Civic Recycling, we’re all about facilitating our customers’ capability to do more with less because we save them money every day. We’ll continue to aid the efforts for electric innovation!

The Electric Labour Market in Canada (EHRC)

What does the Electric Labour Market look like? The following article from www.electricityhr.ca is a great resource on labour market information in the Canadian electrical industry.

Electricity Human Resources Canada (EHRC) is looking to bring together employers, government, labour, educational institutions and other interested stakeholders to address the need for current and accurate labour market intelligence (LMI) for the Canadian electricity sector.

Electric Labour Market Intelligence in Canada

www.electricityhr.ca/our-solutions/labour-market-intelligence/

Read an excerpt from the article:

2015 Labour Market Intelligence for the Canadian Electricity Industry

The program was begun in response to industry demand for more rapid and responsive workforce planning data for use in regulatory filing and for organizational business planning, both on the demand (employers) and supply (educators) side. It also provides government stakeholders with validated data to assist in the development of policy at the municipal, provincial or federal level.

Stakeholders in Canada’s electricity industry face multiple human resources challenges as they plan for the next five to ten years. Some challenges are familiar (e.g. retirements and competition with other industries), others are new (e.g. hiring and training staff for large, renewable and refurbishment projects), and the pace of change and technological innovation continues to accelerate. Challenges vary by region, sector and occupation. Consistent, comprehensive and credible analysis is essential to draw practical insights and guide human resource management.

In order to maintain the integrity of the data published and provide accurate and timely information to our stakeholders it is critical that our LMI data – independent, industry specific, and targeted toward the human resources function – remains current.

Electricity Human Resources Canada (EHRC) is looking to bring together employers, government, labour, educational institutions and other interested stakeholders to address the need for current and accurate labour market intelligence (LMI) for the Canadian electricity sector. The data collected for the 2015 LMI study will provide the industry with information on the most up to date issues and statistics impacting on the sector, and the subsequent implications on the skilled labour supply-demand gap.

Light fixtures are recyclable; high-five mother nature today!

Civic Recycling is an ace up your sleeve when you are looking for obsolete electrical equipment, but what do you do when you’ve got electrical equipment you don’t want or need? A lot of the equipment associated with electrical components contain heavy metals and other materials that make it dangerous—and illegal in most places—to throw such equipment in the trash and send it on to the landfill. If you have unwanted electrical equipment, what are you to do? Did you know Light Fixtures are Recyclable?

Civic Recycling to the Rescue - Light Fixtures are Recyclable

Civic Recycling is not only a leader in finding rare and obsolete electrical equipment, but also in fluorescent recycling. While there are not yet laws on Alberta’s books about banning fluorescent components from ending up in landfills as hazardous waste, recycling fluorescent components is the responsible thing to do.  Civic Recycling gives your company peace of mind and benefits of the environment.

Benefits of Fluorescent Recycling

There are many good reasons why you should recycle your fluorescent components. First, it’s better for the environment; for both humans and animals that live on this planet we call Earth. By the numbers, an average fluorescent lamp houses 23 mg of mercury, which can in turn pollute 20,000 litres of water. There are also other undesirable compounds in fluorescent compounds, like phosphor dust, which should be properly disposed of.

Additionally, fluorescent recycling is also a requirement of many LEED-certified projects or operations and other recycling programs with which your company or business participates. LEED is an acronym for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. Civic Recycling offers Certificates of Recycling to help your company meet the necessary requirements.

Fluorescent Recycling Options

Now that you know light fixtures are recyclable. We offer an array of fluorescent recycling services and options for you to get your fluorescent equipment disposed of in a safe and cost-effective manner.

We recycle the following:

• Fluorescent Ballasts: Civic Recycling accepts non-PCB fluorescent ballasts in any number. If they were manufactured prior to 1979, then it’s more likely your ballasts contain PCBs. You can drop ballasts off at our Calgary location for free—please call ahead if you have more than 100 ballasts to recycle. We also offer pick-up service within the city limits of Calgary for $50.00.

• Fluorescent Lamps: We utilize the 'Premium Bulb Monster' to crunch and recycle a wide array of fluorescent tubes, U-tubes, and CFLs. It removes all but 2% of the deadly mercury and phosphor dust in most fluorescent lamps and deposits it into filter that is disposed of with a local hazardous waste manager. Civic Recycling accepts non-broken lamps at our Calgary center; again, call ahead if you have more than 1,000 lamps to recycle. We can also pick up lamps for recycling in Calgary for $50.00. Costs range from $.70 to $1.50 per lamp.

• Fluorescent Fixtures: Civic Recycling will accept complete fixtures—lamp, ballast and tin fixtures together—when others won’t. We will break the fixture down and recycle each part as needed, saving it all from the landfill. We recycle a range of troughs, lamp strips and other fixtures, charging $5.00 per fixture plus the cost to recycle the lamp. Call ahead to drop off more than 50 fixtures for fluorescent recycling, and we’ll also pick up fixtures within Calgary city limits for a mere $50.00 charge.

Click here to learn more about our recycling program. Giving mother nature a high-five since 1995