There is no such thing as a safe electric shock. Electrical systems, like those in large industrial or commercial buildings, carry enough electrical energy to potentially kill someone, which is one of the many reasons why electrical work should only be taken on by qualified individuals–people with the training and experience needed to stay safe (and keep others safe) on the jobsite.
Workplace electrical safety isn’t just a set of rules—it’s a culture, a commitment, and a lifeline. In this post, we’ll unpack electrical safety standards in British Columbia, from regulations to best practices.
Workplace Electrical Safety Standards in British Columbia
British Columbia’s standards for electrical safety are about more than compliance. They’re about protecting lives, maintaining operations, and ensuring that the lights stay on without anyone getting hurt.
At the heart of it all is the Canadian Electrical Code (CEC). This isn’t just a technical manual; it’s the playbook for safe electrical installations across the country. The CEC governs everything from grounding systems to the installation of safety devices, ensuring that every wire, conductor, and switch is exactly where it should be.
Backing it up are the province’s Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Regulation and WorkSafe BC requirements. These go deeper into the human side of electrical safety—how workers interact with energized equipment, manage potential hazards, and protect themselves from risks like arc flash or electric shock.
When followed properly, these standards create a safer workplace. Ignore them, and you’re inviting electrical hazards.
Electrical Safety Regulations in British Columbia
The rules for electrical work in B.C. are clear, practical, and unbending. The OHS Regulation, enforced by WorkSafe BC, spells out the responsibilities of electrical contractors. Here are the essentials:
Qualified Workers Only: Electrical work is no place for shortcuts or guesswork. Tasks involving energized electrical equipment or exposed conductors are restricted to certified professionals.
Energized Work Permits: If work on live equipment is unavoidable, an energized electrical work permit ensures a proper risk assessment has been done and safeguards are in place.
Appropriate Personal Protective Equipment: Insulated gloves, arc-rated clothing, and other PPE are non-negotiable when working with hazardous energy.
WorkSafe BC’s Role in Safety
WorkSafe BC takes a comprehensive approach to electrical safety. It’s not just about following rules; it’s about building systems that actively prevent incidents. Their regulations cover:
Temporary Protective Grounding: Essential for de-energized equipment to prevent unexpected energization.
Incident Reporting and Investigation: Every electrical incident is a chance to learn and improve. Reporting isn’t just mandatory—it’s part of staying safe in the long run.
Arc Flash Hazards: Proper calculations and procedures ensure workers are prepared for the risks associated with high-energy systems.
These measures aren’t just bureaucratic hoops to jump through. They’re proven ways to keep workers safe and systems running smoothly.
Best Practices for Workplace Electrical Safety
Even with regulations in place, safety isn’t guaranteed—it’s earned. A robust electrical safety program turns policies into practice. This includes ongoing training, regular inspections, and investing in insulated tools and other top-tier safety devices.
One critical step is hazard assessment. Before any work begins, every potential risk—whether it’s energized electrical conductors or an arc flash scenario—must be identified and mitigated. Temporary grounding, PPE, and thorough planning can make all the difference.
The goal isn’t just to meet the standard; it’s to set one.
At Fitz Electric, Safety Is Our Foundation
At Fitz Electric, safety is built into every decision we make. From the tools we use to the teams we send out, we operate with a laser focus on preventing electrical incidents.
Whether we’re handling tenant improvements, industrial upgrades, or complex institutional systems, we bring the same level of care and precision to every job.
When you partner with us, you’re getting more than a service. You’re getting a commitment to doing things the right way. Learn more about our services or take a look at our projects to see how we work.
Whether you need new installations, upgrades, or ongoing maintenance, we’ve got the expertise to make it happen.
Contact us today to discuss your project.
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