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Electrical Operating Permit
An electrical operating permit ensures that a qualified individual is responsible for your technical equipment on your premises. This includes overseeing the safe operation, maintenance and inspection of equipment, as well as ensuring that the appropriate records are maintained and available on request by Technical Safety BC safety officers.
Under the supervision of a New-Era Electric's Field Safety Representatives (FSR), owners can conduct regular maintenance work without having to take out multiple electrical installation permits.
WHO NEEDS AN ELECTRICAL OPERATING PERMIT?
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Educational institutions (schools, colleges, universities)
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Healthcare facilities (hospitals, nursing homes, senior care centers)
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Multi-occupancy buildings (office buildings, shopping malls, hotels, condominiums)
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Industrial and manufacturing facilities
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Recreational centers (stadiums, ice rinks, bowling alleys)
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Hazardous location sites (facilities operating high-risk electrical equipment)
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Wind farms, greenhouses, and municipal sites
RESPONSIBLITIES UNDER AN ELECTRICAL OPERATING PERMIT
When an Electrical Operating Permit is issued, the permit holder assumes responsibility for ensuring that covered electrical equipment is operated, maintained, and inspected in a safe and compliant manner. This includes performing regular maintenance, identifying potential safety concerns, and maintaining accurate records of inspections and work performed.
A qualified Field Safety Representative (FSR) oversees the ongoing maintenance and inspection program, allowing routine maintenance activities to be completed under the operating permit without requiring separate permits for each task. This approach helps improve safety, reduce downtime, and ensure critical electrical systems remain reliable and compliant throughout their service life.
WHEN IS AN ELECTRICAL OPERATING PERMIT REQUIRED?
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Electrical equipment that requires regular inspection, testing, or maintenance.
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Privately owned electrical systems operating above 750 volts.
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Emergency and life-safety systems, including fire alarm systems, generators, fire pumps, smoke control systems, and UPS equipment.
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Electrical services, switchgear, transformers, or distribution equipment with a rated capacity exceeding 250 kVA.
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Electrical equipment installed in hazardous locations where flammable gases, vapours, dust, or combustible materials may be present.
HOW TO APPLY FOR AN ELECTRICAL OPERATING PERMIT
New-Era Electric can act as your designated Field Safety Representative (FSR) and assist you throughout the Electrical Operating Permit application process.
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Contact New-Era Electric to discuss a quote for your facility and FSR requirements.
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Apply for an Electrical Operating Permit through Technical Safety BC.
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Submit the required permit fees.
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Provide the details of your designated FSR.
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Receive your Electrical Operating Permit upon approval.
Our team can help ensure your permit application, inspections, maintenance program, and documentation meet all applicable requirements.
WHY AN ELECTRICAL OPERATING PERMIT IS IMPORTANT
IMPROVED SAFETY
Poorly maintained or improperly operated electrical systems can result in equipment failure, electrical fires, serious injury, or even loss of life. An Electrical Operating Permit helps reduce these risks by requiring regular inspections, maintenance, and oversight by a certified Field Safety Representative (FSR).
REDUCED LIABILITY & RISK
Electrical incidents can lead to costly repairs, downtime, insurance claims, and reputational damage. Maintaining a valid operating permit helps identify potential issues before they become major problems, reducing the likelihood of unexpected failures and costly disruptions.
LEGAL COMPLIANCE
Building owners and facility managers are responsible for ensuring the electrical systems on their property meet the requirements of the BC Electrical Code and Technical Safety BC regulations. An Electrical Operating Permit demonstrates compliance with these legal obligations and confirms that qualified personnel oversee the operation and maintenance of the equipment.