Grounded in Ontario

While meter bases may seem like a simple piece of infrastructure, incorrect installations can pose serious risks. In this episode, ESA Technical Advisor, Trevor Tremblay discusses common mistakes, updated code requirements, and best practices for bonding and grounding meter bases in the lead-up to the October 2025 enforcement deadline. To stay sharp, contractors will need to read all rules carefully and always double-check labeling.

ESA's Technical Advisor, Diana Madill, shares her inspiring career journey from electrician to inspector and helps break down the role and responsibilities of this critical position. Diana also discusses her career path to her current role, the credentials needed to advance and some of the challenges she's overcome as a woman in the trade. Whether you're a Master Electrician, a Licensed Electrical Contractor or just curious what a career in the electrical industry looks like, Diana provides a detailed roadmap for you to follow.

While knob and tube wiring can be safe if properly installed and maintained, over time it can become a problem as newer wiring methods are intermixed and the system deteriorates. Karen Ras and Trevor Tremblay, Technical Advisor at the ESA, explain best practices for Licensed Electrical Contractors (LECs) dealing with knob and tube wiring to ensure safety and Code compliance.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!