The 2015 Canadian Electrical Code (CE Code), Part 1, is available, according to Toronto-based CSA Group. The 2015 CE Code is the 23rd edition of Canada’s primary standard for electrical installations, and includes more than 200 updates and revisions.

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New and updated sections focus on renewable energy, electric heating and hazardous locations classifications. A separate document entitled “Top 16 CE Code Changes” provides an overview of the changes and how they impact various stakeholders.

In the 2015 CE Code, renewable energy systems are now covered in one section. Requirements for photovoltaic systems have been merged with requirements for renewable energy systems, such as wind and hydrokinetic, and there are updates reflecting the latest technologies and safety features for occupants and first responders.

The updated Code now changes Section 18, hazardous locations, to focus exclusively on the Zone system of classification. The section has been revised to introduce the IEC classification for locations containing explosive dust atmospheres, such as grain elevators and flour mills.

Another change is to the section on electric heating. Installation requirements for electric heating equipment have been rationalized and grouped into general rules, where appropriate. New requirements have been added for skin-effect trace heating systems and heating systems by Class 1 extra-low voltage power circuits.

The CE Code, Part I covers the installation and maintenance of electrical equipment for operation at all voltages in buildings, structures and premises (including factory-built relocatable and non-relocatable structures).

The 2015 Canadian Electrical Code, Part I, includes numerous updates:

  • Arc fault circuit interrupters: New requirements expand the use of arc fault circuit interruption (AFCI) technology to include most rooms within dwelling units.
  • High voltage cable ampacities: Ampacity tables have been added for conductors rated 5kV to 46kV.
  • Receptacles for residential dining areas: Modern homes tend to have open concept kitchen and dining areas and can include entertainment areas and workspaces. The code has been revised to reflect the same requirements for great rooms as for living rooms and bedrooms.
  • Reduction of shock drowning in marinas: To increase safety, the requirements for ground fault circuit interrupter protection of class A type receptacles has been extended to all 125V, 15A and 20A receptacles installed on fixed or floating piers, docks or wharves in fishing harbours or on marine structures.

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