New bonding requirements around pools and spas
An amendment to Subrule 3) b) requires the construction of a copper grid made of No. 6 AWG bare copper conductor with suitable connections at all points, arranged in a 300x300 mm pattern and extending 1.5 m from the outside of the pool shell around the pool's circumference. The grid must be between 100-150 mm below grade. Pool water must also be bonded via a corrosion-resistant conductive surface and located where it is not exposed to physical damage or dislodgment during normal pool use and be connected by a No. 6. Cu. bonding conductor. The ESA recommends all pool installations to be designed and built to the 29th edition (2024) of the Ontario Electrical Safety Code (OESC), however, the ESA will continue to accept installations based on the 2021 OESC requirements up until Oct. 1, 2025. Notifications issued on Oct. 1, or after, shall comply with the 2024 OESC requirements. A list of frequently asked questions on the new requirements is available in the OESC Bulletin 68-7-16 issued May 2025. ESA customer service is available to answer questions at 1-877-ESA-SAFE. For links to the new requirements and latest Bulletins on the ESA website, or to purchase a copy of The Ontario Electrical Safety Code (OESC), visit the online version of this article at gfl.me/hbSK. Workplace violence and harassment and mental health resources available Workplace Safety and Prevention Services (WSPS) has a number of free resources, templates and online training sessions scheduled throughout 2025 to provide workers, managers, employers and supervisors with knowledge, tools and resources on workplace violence and harassment and mental health. Workplace violence and harassment Workplace violence and harassment have become pressing concerns for businesses across Ontario, with a noticeable rise in both organized crime and disruptive behaviour. These threats pose serious risks to employees' well-being, organizational culture and overall productivity — costing companies millions annually due to injuries, legal penalties and lost efficiency. Free resources available on the WSPS to help businesses combat workplace violence and harassment include: • Workplace Violence Policy Sample Form • Violence and Harassment Reporting Form • Workplace Violence Assessment • Developing Workplace Violence and Harassment Policies and Programs: A Toolbox Mental health WSPS also offers a variety of mental health training that provides essential knowledge and skills to identify and control mental health hazards in the workplace. Mental health training enhances employee well-being, boosts productivity by reducing absenteeism, promotes a positive workplace culture by reducing stigma and discrimination, and ensures legal compliance with workplace safety regulations. Links to the various online training and free resources can be found via the WSPS website at wsps.ca or in the online version of this article at gfl.me/hbTm.
Effective May 1, 2025, the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) is implementing new bonding requirements around all pools and spas. A number of significant amendments have been made to enhance safety by mitigating potential electrical hazards and providing clear, practical guidance for compliance with these latest standards. Storable pools, spas and hot tubs require a copper ring consisting of a minimum No. 6 AWG bare copper conductor and constructed so that securement around the pool is made 450- 600 mm from the outer contour of the pool shell at a depth of 100-150 mm below grade.
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