The Canadian Standards Association has kindly contributed this guest blog about standards in the electricity industry for the occasion of  World Standards Day on October 14.

Most Canadians are likely familiar with the Canadian Electrical Code to the extent that Part I of the code covers electrical installations in their homes. Houses need to have electrical components installed and electricians need to adhere to Part I of the Code in their installation projects.

Part III of the Code, however, is less well-known to the general public. Yet it is equally important to Canadians as it ensures public safety and reliability of service.

Referenced by electricity distribution and transmission utilities, telecommunication carriers, engineering consultants, electrical safety regulators, and manufacturers across Canada, Part III is the safety standard for power distribution and transmission circuits. In particular, it consists of nine standards that deal with the design and construction of power and communication lines, electrical stations, and electrical coordination between different types of systems, such as between power and communication systems or power systems and pipelines.

Just recently, the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) published new editions of two of these standards: Overhead Systems and Underground Systems. And CEA has supported the development of these two new standards over the past couple of years.

These two standards cover power and communication lines and deal with issues such as clearances and separations, strength of poles and towers, and loading conditions, including the impact of weather.

The new C22.3 No.7 Underground Systems standard is referenced by electrical and communication utilities. By specifying minimum design requirements for underground electricity supply and communication systems, the standard helps ensure the safety and protection of people, services, and property.

The latest edition of the standard includes several major changes and updates, including revised definitions, new clauses, and reference materials dealing with line of sight at intersections and supply cable bonding techniques.

Likewise, the new edition of the C22.3 No.1 Overhead Systems standard helps ensure the safety and protection of people, services, and property by specifying minimum design requirements for overhead electricity supply and communication systems. The standard is referenced by railways, regulators, engineering consultants, and electrical and communication utilities across Canada.

Without safe overhead and underground systems in place, consumers and businesses would not get the electricity they need and public safety would be at risk. So while Part III may be less commonly known among the general public, it is integral to the safe and reliable operation of the electricity system.

Article Source: Canadian Electrical Association