2012 Electrical Code
Changes – Module 3
Sections 18 - 36
ETEL-12(02)-00 (2012-03-26)
TableofContents
Section 18 — Hazardous Locations ........................................................................................................... 2 Section 20 — Flammable Liquid and Gas Dispensing and Service Stations, Garages, Bulk
Storage Plants, Finishing Processes, and Aircraft Hangars .................................................................. 8 Section 22 — Locations in which Corrosive Liquids, Vapours, or Excessive Moisture are Likely to
be Present .................................................................................................................................................... 11 Section 24 — Patient Care Areas ............................................................................................................ 11 Section 26 — Installation of Electrical Equipment ................................................................................. 13 Section 28 — Motors and Generators ..................................................................................................... 25 Section 30 — Installation of Lighting Equipment ................................................................................... 26 Section 32 — Fire Alarm Systems, Fire Pumps, and Carbon Monoxide Alarms (See Appendix G)
....................................................................................................................................................................... 27 Section 36 — High-Voltage Installations ................................................................................................. 32 ©
British Columbia Safety Authority, 2012
1
2012 ELECTRICAL CODE CHANGES
Module 3
There have been numerous changes to the 2012 Canadian Electrical Code. The following
material only describes changes which may be considered as major. For complete Code
information, refer to the 2012 Canadian Electrical Code available at www.csa.ca.
Please note: minor electrical code changes are not covered in this material.
Section 18 — Hazardous Locations
Rule 18-052 Marking (see Appendix B)
Equipment Protection Levels are an alternative and additional specification for equipment
made in accordance with the IEC standards. Throughout Section 18, the reference to
Equipment Protection Levels (EPL) has been added where rules prescribe the type of
equipment required for a particular location.
Equipment Protection Level (EPL)
This new marking system is identified in Rules 18-090 (2) and 18-100. Since 2007, the
IEC Technical Standards have recognized that there may be occasions where it is
necessary to increase, above the normal levels, the protection against ignition sources.
This concept allows for consideration of risk (i.e. consequences of an explosion) as
opposed to just the probability of a flammable atmosphere existing - the conventional
selection criteria between the types of protection and the zone of use.
In order to introduce the concept of a declared level of safety, IEC agreed to
introduce 'Equipment Protection Levels' (EPL's). These are Ga, Gb and Gc for gas
and Da, Db and Dc for dust. These are an alternative and additional specification for
equipment made in accordance with the standards.
©
British Columbia Safety Authority, 2012
2
The following two tables show the normal relationship between EPL and zone, and the
EPL awarded to each type of protection.
Equipment Protection
Level (EPL)
Ga
Gb
Gc
©
Normal Applicable Zone(s)
0 (and 1 and 2)
1 (and 2)
2
Equipment
Code
Description
EPL
Ex ia
Ex ib
Ex ic
Ex d
Ex p
Ex px
Ex py
Ex pz
Ex e
Ex m
Ex ma
Intrinsic safety 'ia'
Intrinsic safety 'ib'
Intrinsic Safety 'ic'
Flameproof protection
Purge/pressurized protection
Purge/pressurized protection 'px'
Purge/pressurized protection 'py'
Purge/pressurized protection 'pz'
Increased safety
Encapsulation
Encapsulation
Ga
Gb
Gc
Gb
Gb
Gb
Gb
Gc
Gb
Gb
Ga
British Columbia Safety Authority, 2012
3
Class 1 Zone O Locations
Rule 18-090 Equipment and wiring (see Appendices B and F)
In Class 1 Zone 0 locations, equipment marked as providing EPL “Type Ga” will provide
protection just as equipment marked “intrinsically safe equipment Type ia”. The methods
of protection used or the design incorporated to provide the protection is not required as
the marking “Ga” alone provides the necessary certification. However, the Gas Group and
Temperature Code markings are still mandatory.
Class 1 Zone 1 Locations
Rule 18-100 Equipment in Class I, Zone 1 locations (see Appendices B and F)
Throughout Section 18, the reference to Equipment Protection Level (EPL) equipment
has been added where rules prescribe the type of equipment required for a particular
location. In Class 1 Zone 1 locations, equipment marked as providing EPL Type “Ga” or
“Gb” will provide protection equivalent to equipment identified as providing a method of
protection “d”, “e”, “o”, “p”, etc.
The following is an example of new general labelling on a distributor enclosure with
increased safety level. This sample equipment label includes:
1) the required marking to meet ATEX standards (not recognized in North America)
2) the required IEC marking, signifying the type of protection utilized and
3) the new CEC recognized Equipment Protection Level marking Gb,
1) Category 2G: Suitable for Zone 1;
2) Increased safety: Suitable for Zone 1;
3) Equipment protection level Gb: Suitable for Zone 1
Each of these markings indicate suitable for use in a Class 1, Zone 1 location
©
British Columbia Safety Authority, 2012
4
Rule 18-108 Sealing, Class I, Zone 1 (see Appendix B)
Subrule (3) has been revised to simplify the language used around the requirement for
sealing. The new wording requires a seal at the first termination inside the Class 1 Zone 1
location regardless of the type of equipment or fitting supplied and is worded like the
requirements for a conduit that leaves a Zone 1 location. This similarity is intended to
increase safety by removing the inconsistency between wiring methods.
Normal location
Sealing type connector approved
for Class 1 Zone 1 location
to be installed on the first
device in the zone
Class 1 Zone 1
Hazardous Location
Note: the rigid conduit, if smaller than 53mm, does not require a sealing fitting as the JB
does not (should not) generate arcs, sparks or high temperatures in normal operation and
does not leave the location in this diagram.
Rule 18-150 Equipment in Class I, Zone 2 locations (see Appendices B and F)
The wording “Where required by other Rules of this Code” has been added to fix an
editorial mistake. Now the wording recognizes other Rules regarding the acceptability of
equipment in Class 1, Zone 2 locations. Item (c) has been added as in Zone 0 and Zone 1
subsections recognizing equipment designed to IEC standards and labeled with an
Equipment Protection Level designation.
18-152 Wiring methods, Class I, Zone 2 (see Appendix B)
Rule 18-152 has been revised to include types RC90 and RA90 armoured cable as
acceptable for use in Class 1 Zone 2 locations
©
British Columbia Safety Authority, 2012
5
Rule 18-154 Sealing, Class I, Zone 2 (see Appendix B)
The requirement to provide sealing for a cable less than 10m in length has been removed
from the Code. Now paragraph (b) requires a sealing type fitting be installed where the
cable terminates at equipment in the Zone 2 location and the other end terminates in a
non-hazardous location where a negative pressure greater than 0.2kPa exists (0.2kPa is
equal to approximately 0.03 psi).
Rule 18-202 Wiring methods, Class II, Division 1 (see Appendix B)
The acceptable wiring methods have not been changed. The net result of the revision is
to separate the two wiring methods into items rather than leave them lumped into one
longer Subrule. The notation that cables needed to be used “with associated cable glands
approved for the particular hazardous location” has been removed. The wording was
unnecessary as the installation cannot be made to comply without using approved type
fittings.
Rule 18-252 Wiring methods, Class II, Division 2 (see Appendix B)
Subrule (d) - The previous Code recognized Type ACWU as suitable in this location. Now
additional armoured cable types are recognized.
Subrule (f) - Type CIC (control and instrumentation cable) has been added as an
acceptable wiring method but with the restrictions noted.
©
British Columbia Safety Authority, 2012
6
Rule 18-302 Wiring methods, Class III, Division 1 (see Appendix B)
Subrule 18-302(1) has been revised to clarify acceptable wiring methods within a Class 3,
Division 1 location. Each acceptable wiring method has been separately listed.
Armoured cables with overall jacket have been added and include Teck90, ACWU90,
copper-sheathed and aluminum sheathed cable. When armoured control and instrument
cable (Type ACIC) is used within a Class 3 Div 1 location, it must have interlocking armor
and a continuous jacket.
Pictured above: Armoured Control & Instrumentation Cable, 300 Volts, PVC Insulation.
This cable is suitable for installation in cable trays in dry, damp and wet locations or for
direct burial and may be extended through sealing glands without removal of the
individual shields, when installed in Hazardous Locations containing A, B, C & D
atmospheres as defined by the Canadian Electrical Code.
Rule 18-322 Electric cranes, hoists, and similar equipment, Class III, Division 1
Rule 18-322 has been re-written for clarification to the user of the requirements
surrounding system requirements and ground fault detection when installing electric
cranes, hoists, and similar equipment for operation over combustible fibres or
accumulations of flyings and similar such equipment and locations.
Rule 18-352 Wiring method, Class III, Division 2 (see Appendix B)
This Rule has been revised to separate and clarify acceptable wiring methods within a
Class 3, Division 2 location. Each acceptable wiring method has been separately listed.
Item (d) is new. Armoured cables with overall jacket have been added and include
Teck90, ACWU90, copper-sheathed RC90 and aluminum sheathed RA90 cables.
Item (e) is new. Armoured control and instrument cable (Type ACIC) must have
interlocking armor and a continuous jacket when used within a Class 3 Div 1 location.
Item (f) reference to Type TC (tray cable) cable is new and demonstrates how the
previous Code wording has been expanded. The previous Electrical Code mentioned “or
cables approved for hazardous locations with associated cable glands approved for the
particular hazardous location”.
Item (g) is similar to item (f). When control and instrument cable (Type CIC) is used within
a Class 3, Division 2 location, the non-armoured version (Type CIC) is permitted subject
to the limitations listed.
©
British Columbia Safety Authority, 2012
7
Section 20 — Flammable Liquid and Gas Dispensing and Service
Stations, Garages, Bulk Storage Plants, Finishing Processes, and
Aircraft Hangars
Rule 20-060 Scope
A minor change has been made to the Subsection title. The word “and” was removed to
make “compressors” a stand alone category. Compressors can be found at other types of
facilities besides storage facilities.
Rule 20-062 Hazardous Areas
This rule has been extensively revised. The former Rule attempted to describe all of the
locations where a classified location could be situated. A newly expanded Table 64 “Class
I, Zone 1 space surrounding compressed natural gas (NGV) storage” has been developed
for the purpose of classifying hazardous locations. Previous Code Rule 20-064 has been
deleted and the other Rules in this sub-section have been renumbered.
Rule 20-102 Hazardous areas
Showrooms shall not be classified as hazardous areas when separated from a service
and repair area by tight-fitting barriers such as curbs, ramps or partitions at least 50mm
high.
©
British Columbia Safety Authority, 2012
8
©
British Columbia Safety Authority, 2012
9
Rule 20-110 Equipment above hazardous areas (see Appendix I)
Previous editions of the Code required fixed lighting which was subject to damage over
lanes and similar areas to be installed at least 3.6m above floor level. Where this was not
possible, luminaires of the totally enclosed type or those constructed to prevent the
escape of sparks or hot metal parts were required.
This new revision permits fixtures approved for non-hazardous locations to be installed.
To prevent fixture damage, the Rule still requires the fixture to be mounted 3.6m above
the finished floor or be mechanically protected by a guard or location where installed at
less than that height.
More than
3.6m
less than
3.6m
Lane Area
Any luminaire suitable for non hazardous location
Any Luminaire suitable for non hazardous location
with mechanical protection (wire guard or similar)
• Installed more than 3.6m, any luminaire suitable for normal locations is
OK.
• Installed below 3.6m, any luminaire suitable for normal locations
protected from mechanical injury by a guard or location.
Rule 20-506 Wiring not within hazardous areas
Rule 20-506 has been revised to recognize wiring methods using types aluminum
sheathed or copper sheathed cables as approved.
©
British Columbia Safety Authority, 2012
10
Section 22 — Locations in which Corrosive Liquids, Vapours, or
Excessive Moisture are Likely to be Present
Changes and revisions in Section 22 of the Code are editorial in nature and have been
made to recognize the selection of conductors or cables shall be made in accordance
with Rule 4-008(1) or to recognized copper–sheathed cable as an acceptable wiring
method.
Section 24 — Patient Care Areas
Rule 24-102 Circuits in basic care areas (see Appendix B)
Hospitals, doctor offices and private clinics may have more than one classified patient
care area within the premises. This can result in some wiring systems being designated
as “essential” with faster restoration times during a normal power outage.
This Subrule has been added to inform users that branch circuit wiring supplied from an
essential wiring system shall not be used to supply receptacles or permanently connected
equipment in other areas of the facility. The hospital administrator or designate
determines the classification of all patient care areas.
Rule 24-104 Bonding to ground in basic care areas (see Appendix B)
Besides communication, radio and cable TV equipment, other equipment in a patient care
area having conductive parts may come in contact with or provide a conductive path to a
patient. Medical gas, water lines and suction equipment are types of these systems.
New Subrule (8) has been provided to require these systems be bonded to ground with a
conductor sized to T16 but not smaller than #12. This bonding conductor shall be
terminated in accordance with Subrule (3).
©
British Columbia Safety Authority, 2012
11
These are examples of locations within a patient care
environment where a conductive path to ground could be found.
Rule 24-106 Receptacles in basic care areas (see Appendix B)
The wording of Subrule (6) has been re-written to clarify which
receptacles must be coloured red in patient care areas.
Rule 24-306 Emergency supply
This revision has removed former Subrule (2). Information and standards around
generator installation and performance is provided in CAN Standard: C282-09 Emergency electrical power supply for buildings.
This consensus based Standard provides design, installation, operation, maintenance
and testing requirements for emergency electrical power generators and associated
equipment for use by generator set designers, manufacturers, installation contractors,
maintenance contractors, building inspectors and commissioners in buildings where
emergency power generators are mandated by the BC Building Code and local building
by-laws.
©
British Columbia Safety Authority, 2012
12
Section 26 — Installation of Electrical Equipment
The dangers of cellulose nitrate film
Cellulose nitrate film is extremely dangerous. It catches fire very easily and once alight is
difficult to put out. Fires involving cellulose nitrate burn extremely quickly with a hot,
intense flame and the smoke is particularly toxic, containing large quantities of poisonous
gases.
Any cellulose nitrate film that you come across now will be extremely old. This is a
problem because the high fire risk from cellulose nitrate film increases as it ages. Old
cinematographic film and old photographic negatives (including X-ray film) may be made
from cellulose nitrate (which means they contain nitrated cellulose or other nitrated
product). These films are sometimes referred to as ‘nitrate’, ‘nitratebased’, ‘nitro-cellulose
based’ or ‘celluloid’ film (although the term ‘celluloid’ is often used these days to refer to
film in general, it may not actually contain cellulose nitrate).
Why is cellulose nitrate film dangerous?
It is the nitro-cellulose that makes cellulose nitrate-based film so dangerous to store and
handle. It is hazardous because:
•
it can start to decompose and become unstable at temperatures as low as 38ºC,
giving off large quantities of poisonous gases, which could cause an explosion.
Warmth and humidity (moisture) accelerate this decomposition;
it catches fire very easily and burns extremely quickly, with a hot and intense flame;
it produces very dense, poisonous smoke containing copious amounts of choking
nitrogen dioxide fumes; and
unlike many other flammable materials, nitro-cellulose does not need the oxygen in
the air to keep burning and once it is burning it is extremely difficult to put out.
Immersing burning film in water may not extinguish the fire and it could actually
increase the amount of smoke produced.
•
•
•
Cellulose nitrate film should, because of its age and the likelihood that it has not been
stored in ideal conditions, be treated as being potentially dangerous. If you have film or
negatives made from cellulose nitrate (or you think they may be made from cellulose
nitrate) keep them well away from any source of heat (e.g. radiators and light bulbs). Do
not run film through a projector or put negatives on an enlarger; they can catch fire simply
by the heat from the lamp or from friction caused by the film passing over the projector
sprockets.
Above information courtesy of
www.hse.gov.uk
©
British Columbia Safety Authority, 2012
13
For longer storage, use an approved storage vault. The standards for design,
construction, and use of storage cabinets and vaults for historical nitrate films are based
on years of experience by the National Board of Fire Underwriters and are supported by
the experience of the National Archives and the National Bureau of Standards.
The important principles supporting the Underwriters' regulations are based on
•
•
•
•
•
elimination of all possible means of starting a fire
control of, and protection against, the spread of fire
segregation of large quantities of film into small protected units
ample provision for safety to human life
proper ventilation and exhaust system
These are the important reasons behind every detail of an approved building construction,
self closing fire doors, exits, vents, light fixtures, electrical systems, heating equipment,
and automatic sprinklers, etc.
Vaults for commercial storage are limited to 750 cubic feet with a vent area not less than
200 square inches per 1,000 pounds, or a total of 2,000 square inches for the standard
size vault. A sprinkler is required for every 62.5 cubic feet of space or 12 for a 750 cubic
foot vault.
Vaults for long term storage are limited to 100 cubic feet with a vent area of at least 2,670
square inches, and with no less than eight sprinklers. Both sprinklers and ventilation
provide about five times the safeguards suggested for that of commercial storage.
Shelves in long term film vaults should be divided into individual compartments with not
less than 3/4 inch thick non combustible insulating material. Each compartment should
hold only one, or at most two, film containers.
The ceiling water sprinklers should be directed so that all shelves will be drenched in the
event of fire. The individual containers will protect the film from water damage.
Air conditioning systems in film vaults should be installed according to regulations of the
National Board of Fire Underwriters. Automatic fire dampers should be installed in the air
ducts so that a fire in one vault will not spread to another and so that the toxic gases
given off will not be distributed to other rooms, but will be vented outside. The
Underwriters' regulations do not provide for control of air temperature and relative
humidity in the storage of nitrate film other than that temperatures must not exceed 21°C
(70°F). This is a safety precaution. Additional precautions are required from the
standpoint of film preservation.
Above information courtesy of
www.motion.kodak.com
©
British Columbia Safety Authority, 2012
14
Rule 26-360 General
This new Rule defines the scope of the section.
Rule 26-362 - Equipment in film-vaults
This new rule restricts the installation to fixed lighting only. Modern film vaults store the
film canisters in smaller groups and separate them with fire-resistant shelving. Only
lighting is permitted in the vault due to the extremely flammable characteristics of nitrate
film.
Rule 26-364 - Wiring methods in film-vaults
Subrule (1) - The nature of cellulose nitrate requires wiring methods prescribed by Rules
18-152 (a), (b), and (d). These wiring methods are associated with Class 1 Zone 2
installations.
Subrule (2) - This rule is to prevent the spread of noxious gases, smoke and combustion
products from one vault to another.
Subrule (3) - The conduit between the switch and light fixture shall be “sealed off near the
switch”. No reference is made for the seal to comply with Rule 18-108 (approved sealing
fittings and sealant) as required for installations in Class1 Zone 2 locations; however an
EYS and chico shall be used unless another approved fitting and compound is available.
Rule 26-366 - Luminaires in film-vaults
Luminaires approved for Class 1 Zone 2 (or Div 2) locations shall be installed.
Rule 26-368 - Circuits in film-vaults
To ensure maximum safety for someone entering a storage vault as well as to the
equipment and contents, the switch is placed outside. A red pilot light will grab people’s
attention and all ungrounded conductors shall be de-energized when the switch is open.
©
British Columbia Safety Authority, 2012
15
Rule 26-700 General (see Appendices B and I)
Subrule (9) – This revision is editorial in nature and describes the specific type of GFCI
protection required.
Subrule (12) - This new addition is another level of protection in a location where children
could attempt to insert conductive objects into receptacles.
Appendix B note to Rule 26-700 (12) - It is intended by this Rule that unless otherwise
designated by an authority having jurisdiction for child care facilities, a “child care facility”
is considered to be an area designed to provide care to persons 7 years of age or less.
Rule 26-702 Receptacles exposed to the weather (see Appendix B)
Currently standard C22.2 No. 42.1 which deals with cover plates for flush mounted wiring
devices recognizes that outlets may be tested for use in wet locations:
• with electrical equipment plugged in, or
• without electrical equipment plugged in
Previous versions of Rule 26-702 did not distinguish between the two possible uses. The
changes are being made to ensure that receptacle covers provide adequate weather
protection when electrical devices are plugged in or not plugged in.
Copyright © 2009, The Reader’s Digest Association, Inc. and its licensors. All rights reserved.
©
British Columbia Safety Authority, 2012
16
Rule 26-704 Receptacles for maintenance of equipment located on roof tops
Appendix B note to Rule 26-704 - The minimum distance of 7.5 m is intended to ensure
that a standard 10 m long extension cord will reach the roof top equipment. The minimum
750 mm clearance from the finished roof is intended to ensure that the receptacle
remains visible in the event of snow build up.
In this illustration, consider two separate scenarios:
•
Scenario #1 - the HVAC equipment on the right is the only unit on the rooftop. In this
case a receptacle located anywhere within the prescribed 7.5 M and elevation is
acceptable. Caution, WorkSafe BC fall protection requirements apply where a fall
hazard exceeds 3m. To avoid fall protection requirements, choose another more
suitable location, mount the receptacle more than 2m from the edge, or ensure the
pony wall exceeds 2m in height.
•
Scenario #2 - both HVAC units are installed on the roof top as shown. One rooftop
receptacle may serve more than one HVAC unit provided the receptacle is located
within 7.5m of any unit so served.
Note: If the unit comes with an integral receptacle, it does not satisfy this rule.
©
British Columbia Safety Authority, 2012
17
Rule 26-710 General (See appendix B)
Subrule (d) - The revision is new wording that describes the proper receptacle
configuration designation.
Subrule (e) - This Rule applies to receptacles installed in all residential occupancies
including dwelling units and single dwellings. In previous Codes, item (ii) used the
wording “or area”. This wording resulted in inconsistent application of the requirements.
Subrule (o) - Appendix B note to Rule 26-710 (o):
It is intended by this requirement to recognize a need for additional EV charging
infrastructure in residential occupancies only in those cases when such EV charging
infrastructure is mandated by the provincial/territorial building codes or local building or
zoning regulations.
Rule 26-712 Receptacles for dwelling units (see Appendices B and G)
Subrule (d)(iii) has been revised to clarify receptacles are required along counter work
surfaces whether there is a wall behind the counter or not. Previous editions of the Code
required receptacles along the wall “behind counter work surfaces”. This caused
confusion for Users and AHJ’s when the counter work surface abutted glass windows or
other non-traditional “wall” surfaces which did not provide a means to locate a receptacle.
Compliance with this rule may require a receptacle to be mounted in the counter work
surface along the wall using pop-up or pedestal mount receptacles which are available
at this time.
©
British Columbia Safety Authority, 2012
18
•
The receptacle on the left is not approved for use in Canada. It is shown as a means
of meeting the new requirements where a wall is not provided behind the counter
space. Any receptacle intended for use must bear acceptable evidence of approval.
•
The receptacle on the right is fully approved.
©
British Columbia Safety Authority, 2012
19
Rules 26-712(d)(iv) and (v)
Appendix B Note - It is intended by this Rule that a continuous counter surface is one
which is not interrupted by sinks, ranges and other built in equipment.
Where there is a sink, range or other built in equipment such as a gas cook top installed
in a counter surface, new measurements shall be taken to determine if additional
receptacles are required. This may result in more than one receptacle on an island work
space.
600mm or
greater
continuous counter surface
300 mm
or greater
If less than
300mm
receptacle
not required
600 mm
or greater
•
Where a sink or appliance interrupts a counter surface, a new counter work surface
begins. If this new work surface meets the minimum dimensions specified, an
additional receptacle will be required.
•
In this example, a receptacle is NOT required to the left of the sink as the minimum
300mm dimension is not met.
©
British Columbia Safety Authority, 2012
20
600mm or
greater
continuous counter surface
280 mm
600 mm
or greater
600 mm
or greater
600mm or
greater
300 mm
or greater
600 mm
or greater
600 mm
or greater
300 mm
or greater
•
Where a sink or appliance interrupts a counter surface, a new counter work surface
begins. If measurements determine it meets the minimum dimensions specified, an
additional receptacle will be required.
•
In the upper island example, one of the minimum dimensions is not met; therefore a
receptacle is not required.
•
In the lower island example, both dimensions are met and there are two counter work
surfaces, one on each side of the sink, therefore a receptacle is required at each
location.
•
In the peninsula example, both dimensions are met and there are two counter work
surfaces, one on each side of the sink, therefore a receptacle is required at each
location.
©
British Columbia Safety Authority, 2012
21
Rule 26-712(h) – Appendix B Note:
The intent of Rule 26-712(h) is to protect children from shock where they may tamper with
receptacles accessible to them. For those situations where the receptacle is inaccessible,
a non-tamper proof receptacle may be used.
Examples of such situations where the receptacle is inaccessible are microwaves in
cabinets, refrigerators, freezers, washing machines, those located in an attic or crawl
space, or those installed above 2 m from the floor or finished grade.
Cabinet lighting power above 2 meters
Clock outlet above 2 meters
Microwave
TR
TR
TR
Fridge or
Freezer
Dishwasher
TR
TR
Wine
cooler
TR
Washer
Dryer
Garburator ,
Hot Water Dispenser
Tamper Resistant receptacle required
Standard receptacle OK to use
©
TR
British Columbia Safety Authority, 2012
22
TR Receptacles
not required
in attic space
Areas
requiring
tamper
resistance
receptacles
2M
Tamper
TR
resistant
receptacle
Balconies
or decks
interior
TR
TR
Standard
receptacle
TR
exterior
interior
TR
TR
TR Receptacles not required
in crawl space
©
British Columbia Safety Authority, 2012
23
Rule 26-714 Receptacles for single dwellings (see Appendices B and G)
Previously the Code was silent in regard to the requirement to install a receptacle
for the overhead garage door opener.
Rule 26-720 General
Subrule (b) applies to branch circuits for all residential occupancies including dwelling
units and single dwellings. In previous Codes, the wording “or area” was used. This
wording resulted in inconsistent application of the requirements. The subrule now clearly
defines when that branch circuit is required. Note that the wording “receptacles” has not
changed which still allows all receptacles in a laundry room to be supplied by the laundry
room circuit.
Subrule (g) is a new item added to require a separate branch circuit.
Rule 26-722 Branch circuits for dwelling units (see Appendices B and I)
Some electrical equipment is subject to nuisance tripping due to the nature of the
equipment design or sometimes the nature of the location. Both AFCI and GFCI
protection may be undesirable where the consequences of nuisance tripping cause
unwanted conditions.
Revisions to Rule 26-722(g) help clarify that a receptacle installed for the dedicated use
of a sump pump, does not require AFCI protection. To help ensure the receptacle is not
used for unintended purposes and AFCI protection is maximized within the sleeping area,
a single (not duplex) receptacle properly identified and on a separate circuit from other
receptacles in the bedroom is required.
Image courtesy of
www.visual.merriam-webster.com
©
British Columbia Safety Authority, 2012
24
Rule 26-744 Supply connections for appliances
In previous editions of the Code, Rule 8-300 required branch circuit conductors to be
sized to 8kw for a range up to 8kw. This resulted in a conductor sized smaller than the
rating of the range receptacle (14-50R/50a). This revision now recognizes and accepts
the smaller conductor to supply this receptacle configuration.
Rule 26-760 - Special terminology
Bare element water heater - a self contained factory assembled water heater that heats
water by direct contact with the uninsulated heating element wire.
CSA Standard C22.2 No. 64 requires that bare element water heaters be marked "BARE
ELEMENT WATER HEATER" and "CHAUFFE-EAU À ÉLÉMENT NU". The requirements
for bare element water heaters in CSA Standard C22.2 No. 64 apply to permanently
connected heaters and do not apply to cord-connected equipment.
Rule 26-762 – General
The previous wording “A water heater with a bare heater element immersed in water” has
been deleted.
Section 28 — Motors and Generators
Rule 28-308 Overload protection not required (see Appendix B)
The revision to 28-308 (a) is strictly editorial. The previous (a) has been split into items (i)
and (ii). The net result is no change in intent, just easier reading and therefore clarification
of the requirements where overload protection is not required.
Subrule (c) has not been revised and still references the types of motors which conform to
CSA C22.2 No.77. These motors are typically fractional HP with electronic control
systems which monitor speed, direction and overload situations. They are used
extensively in plenum, duct and damper control of HVAC systems (servo motors).
©
British Columbia Safety Authority, 2012
25
Section 30 — Installation of Lighting Equipment
Rule 30-308 Circuit connections
Safety during maintenance remains the foremost reason for requiring a disconnecting
means for fluorescent fixtures rated more than 150 volts to ground. This rule has been
revised to recognize other acceptable means to provide the required disconnecting
means.
Rule 30-310 – Luminaire as a raceway
The former references to Table 19 and Table 11 have been replaced by the references to
select the conductors in accordance with Rule 4-008 and 4-012 respectively.
Rule 30-410 - Wiring of show window luminaires
The former reference to Table 11 has been replaced by the reference to select the
conductors in accordance with Rule 4-012(1).
Rule 30-912 - Wiring of recessed fluorescent luminaires
The former reference to Table 11 has been replaced by the reference to select the
conductors in accordance with Rule 4-012(1).
Rule 30-1004 - Wiring methods — Underground
The former reference to Table 19 has been replaced by the reference to select the
conductors in accordance with Rule 4-008 (1).
Rule 30-1102 –Conductors
The former reference to Table 19 has been replaced by the reference to select the
conductors in accordance with Rule 4-008 (1).
©
British Columbia Safety Authority, 2012
26
Section 32 — Fire Alarm Systems, Fire Pumps, and Carbon
Monoxide Alarms (See Appendix G)
Rule 32-100 Conductors
As with other revisions throughout the Code, the User of the Code must ensure the
selection of conductors used for the Fire Alarm wiring are approved and suitable for the
intended purpose.
Rule 32-102 Wiring method
The requirement to encase rigid PVC conduit in 50mm of concrete or masonry has been
removed. Now an exposed surface run of Rigid PVC is an acceptable wiring method in a
non-combustible building.
Note that the ENT provision in item (d) has additional text added in RED. A CSA errata
has been made, requiring type ENT to be embedded in at least 50mm of concrete when
used in non-combustible construction.
Studies have shown that PVC provides an equivalent level of protection as EMT or similar
wiring methods when exposed to a building fire. However, users are cautioned that for
some buildings, the BC Building Code requires additional protection from fire exposure for
some portions of a fire alarm system which cannot be met by RPVC conduit alone. I.e.
Tall buildings. See Appendix B notes for further information.
©
British Columbia Safety Authority, 2012
27
©
British Columbia Safety Authority, 2012
28
Rule 32-200 Conductors (see Appendices B and G)
The intent of this Rule is to protect the feeder conductors between a fire pump and an
emergency power source from fire damage. The BC Building Code and Local Bylaws
requires that conductors supplying a life and fire safety equipment be protected against
exposure to fire to ensure continued operation of this equipment for a period not less than
1 h. NFPA 20 also mandates protection of circuits feeding fire pumps against possible
damage by fire.
The following examples illustrate acceptable methods for achieving this protection:
Regardless of the method chosen, verification by the Building official or a fire protection
engineer is required
(a) Using mineral-insulated cables conforming to fire rating requirements as specified in
Clause 5.3 of CSA C22.2 No. 124;
(b) Embedding the raceway containing fire pump feeder conductors in not less than 50
mm of concrete in compliance with the BC Building Code and local building by-laws.
Encasing conventional wiring in concrete is a traditional method for addressing fire
protection. 50mm of concrete has historically been considered adequate for one-hour fire
resistance; approximately 100mm are required to protect conductors for two hours.
However, this is a general statement and an engineers report confirming compliance must
be provided to the Building Official who has jurisdiction in this matter.
©
British Columbia Safety Authority, 2012
29
(c) Installing the raceway containing fire pump feeder conductors in a shaft enclosure or
service space of at least 1 h fire resistance construction.
Specific requirements pertaining to the fire resistance rating of a material or an assembly
of materials can be found in subsection 3.1.7 of the BC Building Code and Local Bylaws
or in the appropriate provincial/territorial legislation. Gypsum fire shaft assemblies are
highly complex and difficult to make properly, professional design and certification is
required.
32-202 Wiring Method
Rule 32-202 applies to both the normal power for the fire pump and portions of
emergency power that exit the concrete (if so protected) or portions that exit the fire shaft
(if so protected).
©
British Columbia Safety Authority, 2012
30
32-208 Transfer switch (see Appendix G)
The revision to Rule 32-208 is editorial in nature and clarifies the requirements that where
a transfer switch is used to supply emergency power to a fire pump, the transfer switch
shall be used solely for the fire pump. Other systems may be supplied but must be
controlled by their own transfer switches.
Further information can be found in the BC Building Code, see Section 46 3.2.7.9,
Emergency power supply for building services (elevators, fire pumps, fans, etc.).
Normal power
Emergency power
Transfer
Switch
Fire Pump
Controller
Other
emergency
loads
X
Fire Pump
Controller
X
In the illustration above, this installation is not compliant as each pump and controller
must be separately controlled as shown in illustration below.
This illustration above shows a compliant installation. Each fire pump is supplied by its
own transfer switch.
©
British Columbia Safety Authority, 2012
31
Section 36 — High-Voltage Installations
Rule 36-100 Conductors (see Appendix B)
Subrule (1) (c) - This revision is editorial only, the previous Code made reference to
Subrule (2) (d), armoured cable. This was incorrect as insulated conductors in armoured
cable are enclosed in grounded metal (the sheath).
Subrule (2) (e) - Type TC tray cable is available in Canada in medium voltage classes up
to 46 kV armoured and non-armoured.
Rule 36-214 Disconnecting means
Subrule (2) – Previously, the Code required the ability to see the switch contacts in “both
the open and closed position”. With the advent of new HV switch and circuit breaker
designs where visible inspection of the closed contacts is not possible, the Rule has been
revised. It is important that the switch contacts be visible in the open position for safety to
electrical workers. Where the contacts are not visible in the open position, this Rule
applies.
Rule 36-302 Station ground electrode
Subrule (3) - The revision clarifies that where conditions do not permit the grounding
electrode system to be adjacent to the station, a remote grounding installation must
comply with Subrule 1(a) and 1(b).
The previous Code required compliance with all of Subrule (1) which included connecting
all the metal parts within the station to the ground grid and having the remote ground form
a loop around the station. This is not possible by the very definition of a “remote Station
ground”.
©
British Columbia Safety Authority, 2012
32