An updated version of the Ontario Electrical Safety Code (OESC) comes into effect May 1. This 25th edition of the code establishes safety standards for installing and maintaining electrical equipment, including the prevention of fire and shock hazards. By law, all electrical installations in Ontario must conform to the code. Find out more.
Make electrical safety a priority
According to the Electrical Safety Authority, electrocutions in industrial, commercial and agricultural workplaces accounted for 36% of all occupational electrocutions from 2006 to 2010.1 The most common cause of occupational electrocutions, says the authority, is using an improper procedure (60%).2 This suggests shortcomings in training, hazard assessments, and/or supervision.
To help you improve electrical safety, Workplace Safety & Prevention Services (WSPS) offers these electrical safety resources:
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downloads, including
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e-courses, available in English and French
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conference sessions at Health & Safety Ontario Partners in Prevention Health & Safety Conference & Trade Show, May 1-2 in Mississauga
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Electrical Safety Management Principles
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Sounding the Alarm on Electrical Workplace Incidents
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professional development course (1 day): Workplace Electrical Safety Standard: Understanding CSA Z462-08, taking place April
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WSPS also offers resources on roles and responsibilities for supervisors and other workplace parties.