Safety & Fundamentals:
Electrical Code and the Do-It-Yourselfer

By Terry Peterman, The Internet Electrician

Please Note
Code information that we will be passing on to you through the Electrical-online.com site will be based on the rules and regulations of the general Canadian Electrical Code (C.E.C.).  I will make every effort to identify any differences between the C.E.C. and N.E.C. (National Electrical Code).  Please be aware that certain rules and regulations may vary in your particular area.

When in doubt, ALWAYS consult with your local inspector/inspection department.  If, after reading the information on this site regarding the completion of a specific task, you are still in doubt as how to complete it successfully and safely, make sure you consult with a certified electrical contractor or electrical inspector in your area.

Electrical code is, essentially, the rules and regulations regarding the installation and maintenance of residential and industrial systems in your particular area.

In Canada there is a blanket code called the C.E.C. or the Canadian Electrical Code (N.E.C. or National Electrical Code in the U.S.A.) 

This code is in the form of a book which serves as the 'electrician’s bible'. Within this book lies the laws of the electrical land.

The overseer of this law is the electrical inspector -- his/her word is the law.  Their powers extend to great lengths, including the authority to stop or hold a job based solely on the fact that he/she is not satisfied with the quality of work. My advice is to treat them very nicely….

A Word on Electrical Permits
 

Most electrical work requires that you pull a permit with your local electrical authority.  Many jurisdictions allow a homeowner to work on his/her own home's electrical system.  Some areas only allow work on branch circuits and not main service panel installation.  Other areas will not allow homeowner permits at all.  This varies from place to place, so it is CRITICAL that, before you commence any do-it-yourself home wiring project, you first check the rules in your area.

When the job is at the rough in stage (before the drywall is up and electrical devices are installed), the inspector will drop by and check it out. If he/she is satisfied they will give you the thumbs up, but if they find anything not up to code, these will be listed as deficiencies and you must fix them to his/her satisfaction before receiving approval. The inspector will want to do an inspection at the finished stage as well.

Please remember that the system of inspection in your province, state, or region may vary, so check it out before beginning the job.