The Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) regulates and promotes electrical safety in Ontario. The ESA has a list of approved markings that appear on products to show that they meet strict safety standards and are good for purchase. This blog will show you which markings are acceptable, what risks to look out for, and how to find safe electrical products.
How ESA-Approved Markings Keep You Safe
Everyone wants a safe home. One way to ensure this is to make sure all the electrical products you use have ESA-approved safety markings. All it takes is a quick look!
What Marks are Recognized by the ESA?
The most common marks are the Canadian Standards Association (CSA), Underwriters Laboratories (UL), and Intertek (ETL), but you can find many other types. The marks show that the product is a quality build with proper electrical components that have passed safety tests. These markings reassure you that your purchase is reliable and compliant with national safety regulations.
You can find markings in common locations. The best places to start are near cords or battery packs, followed by the back or bottom of the product. If the item has no marking, check the packaging.
The Risks of Non-Approved Electrical Products
Using a device without ESA approval marks can pose significant risks. Unmarked products have no guarantee of safety testing, leading to an increased risk of electrical fires, shocks, or other incidents that could endanger lives and property.
How to Find Products with ESA Approval Marks
Be vigilant, especially when shopping online. Websites like Temu, Alibaba, and even Amazon can have unmarked products listed for sale. The same applies to third-party sellers on sites like Walmart or Best Buy.
Finding cheaper, non-approved electrical products online is easy. These items might be tempting due to their lower prices, but the cost savings are not worth the potential risk. When shopping online, scroll through photos of the item you're considering to see if any safety markings are visible. You can also scroll through product reviews to find pictures of any markings.
Your best bet is to stick to reputable retailers and manufacturers that adhere to safety standards. Always check, but if the product is available on a store shelf, it will likely have markings.
Why Electricians Insist on ESA-Approved Products
As a licensed electrical contractor, we are responsible for ensuring the safety and integrity of our work. Just as the ESA approves safety markings, they approve electrical contractors and their work too. To maintain a high work standard, electrical contractors only install electrical products with safety approval marks.
Installed unmarked products will fail inspection, resulting in potential fines for the installer and more time and cost towards redoing the work with proper products. Unmarked goods can violate safety regulations and pose risks to the electrician completing the work, the client using the product, and their property.
We are committed to safety and professionalism, so we always look for approved marks. Be wary of electrical contractors who are willing to install electrical goods that do not meet ESA standards.
Final Thoughts
These markings are not just symbols; they are a safety guarantee. Choosing electrical products with ESA approval marks is essential for maintaining a safe living environment.
By being informed and cautious, you can protect your home, your family, and yourself from the risks associated with unsafe electrical products. If you have any questions or are looking for an electrical contractor to install your electrical products safely, we’re here to help! You can connect with us by emailing service@kraun.ca or by filling out the form below.