Information Bulletin: BC Electrical Code Section 76 -Temporary Wiring

This information bulletin supplements directive D-EL 2016-03.

The following bulletin provides guidance on the application of policy for Technical Safety BC. For work outside of Technical Safety BC jurisdiction, please check with the appropriate municipal authorities for their requirements.

Scope

As outlined in rule 76-000 of the BC Electrical Code, section 76 applies to temporary wiring installations for buildings under construction or demolition. It is the nature of the installation, not the use of that installation, that determines whether the installation is temporary. Receptacles that are connected to the permanent wiring system and therefore not within the scope of section 76 are subject to other applicable rules of the BC Electrical Code. Temporary distribution panels are not considered permanent and are subject to the rules in section 76.

Receptacles

Where construction sites use temporary wiring methods, this wiring is exposed to more severe duty and weather conditions than permanent installations. The use of extension cords may increase bonding conductor impedance. Additionally, site and environmental conditions may make grounding conditions unstable. These factors can result in an increased risk of electrical shock to workers. For this reason, rule 76-016 requires GFCI protection for 15 A (configuration 5-15R) and 20 A (configuration 5-20R) receptacles installed on temporary wiring installations.

Permanently installed receptacles do not require GFCI protection (per rule 76-010) even though they may be energized for use during construction (see Appendix I of the BC Electrical Code). All receptacles in outdoor locations must be weather protected as required in rule 26-708. Outdoor receptacles in residential occupancies must also be GFCI protected (see rule 26-722). 

Provincial Safety Manager

References:
BC Electrical Code D-EL 2016-03 - BC Electrical Code, section 76 – Temporary Wiring