Grounded in Ontario

For a long time, ESA communicated with Licensed Electrical Contractors through fax machines. But, as technology has advanced, so have the platforms for communication between inspectors and contractors. On this episode, host Karen Ras talks with Eric Kingston, ESA’s VP of Operations about the latest innovations to ESA’s services – including a brand new app. Kingston will dive into remote inspections, a new inspector mapping tool and how the organization will implement feedback into its initiatives.

ESA’s Risk-based Oversight (RBO) program was developed more than two years ago as a tool to reduce the burden on contractor’s time. On this episode, host Karen Ras chats with Will Barrett, ESA’s General Manager for Operations, Planning and Support, to answer electrical contractors’ most frequent questions about RBO and to get tips on how to simplify the inspection process. Barrett will also give his best advice on how to improve your defect ratio, so you can focus less on inspections and more on your business.

A Licensed Electrical Contractor’s defect ratio is one of the factors in determining the risk ranking for RBO. That’s why, on this episode, host Karen Ras continues her conversation with Trevor Tremblay, technical advisor at ESA, on some of the most common defects recorded. Among the issues covered, Trevor gives advice on unapproved equipment and non-metallic cables and receptacles – so that you can stay up to date on how new products can present new electrical hazards.

Last year, inspectors wrote more than 143,000 defects. On this episode, host Karen Ras speaks with Trevor Tremblay, technical advisor at ESA, about the most common defects recorded and what Licensed Electrical Contractors should keep in mind in order to be consistently compliant. Among the issues covered, Trevor gives advice on arc fault circuit interrupters, scheduling and how to make your inspection process more seamless.

With climate change bringing more severe storms, many consumers are looking to install generators to ensure they still have power in extreme weather situations. On this episode, host Karen Ras gets the lowdown from Trevor Tremblay, technical advisor at ESA, on the most challenging parts of generator installations and how Licensed Electrical Contractors can meet the requirements of the Ontario Electrical Safety Code. Karen and Trevor talk through the trends, types of generators and permit requirements you need to know to stay safe and grounded.

Individuals working in the underground economy (without proper licences or permits) undermine the public’s trust in the electrical industry. In this episode, host Karen Ras speaks with Soussanna Karas, Director of Licensing at ESA, about how ESA is combating illegal electrical installations through educational materials and enforcement blitzes.

As a licensed electrical contractor, the Ontario Electrical Safety Code helps ensure you do your job safely. On this episode, host Josie Erzetic catches up with Nansy Hanna, Senior Director of Engineering and Regulations, to talk about significant updates that you need to be aware of in the new Code edition (available May 5, 2022). Josie and Nansy cover specific changes regarding environmental causes and technological advancements to help keep everyone safe.

With the cost of battery storage coming down, more and more businesses, industries and homeowners are moving towards grid independence. On this episode, host Josie Erzetic talks with Trevor Tremblay, Technical Advisor at ESA, about the safest way to install energy storage systems. Trevor gives a glimpse into approved system requirements, when to file a notification of work and some brand new sections of Ontario Electrical Safety Code you don’t want to miss. Note that ESA will issue a Bulletin to clarify the requirements for Energy Storage Systems in residences.

Each year, hundreds of unlicensed contractors perform electrical work in Ontario illegally— putting homeowners and families at risk of electrical shock, fire and even death. On this episode, host Josie Erzetic speaks with Soussanna Karas, Director of Licensing at ESA, about how ESA is targeting unlicensed and unpermitted work. Karas shares the ways you can report unlicensed electrical contractors and advice on how to protect your own licensure.

Arc faults are one of the leading causes of fire hazards in a home. On this episode, host Josie Erzetic sits down with Trevor Tremblay, Technical Advisor at ESA, to discuss why it’s important to install arc fault and ground fault circuit interrupters. Tremblay breaks down where they’re needed, when to install them, and how to handle the nuisance tripping that may result from these products.

With gas prices on the rise and the cost of electric vehicles going down, it’s no wonder that electric vehicle charging stations are a hot commodity. On this episode, host Josie Erzetic joins Trevor Tremblay, Technical Advisor at ESA, in a conversation about the best practices for installing these EV charging stations including planning a safe spot to install, practicing routine maintenance to ensure the electrical system is up to the challenge, and the importance of filing a notification of work.

It's summertime which means being inundated with calls for pools and hot tub installations! But before you pick up the phone, you need to make sure you’re up to Code. On our first episode, host Josie Erzetic joins Trevor Tremblay, a Technical Advisor at ESA, in a conversation about how to avoid water and electric mishaps -- what hazards to be aware of, the dangers of online purchasing, and why electrical upkeep is essential.

Welcome to the first ever podcast made for the province's licensed electrical contractors, master and certified electricians, and those looking to join the ranks. This season, host Josie Erzetic of the Electrical Safety Authority, will be your guide through the industry’s best practices. Hear from guest speakers on emerging trends, potential hazards, and updates to the Ontario Electrical Safety Code from technical advisors and experts in the field. Arm yourself with the tools you need to get your job done effectively, timely and safely!