ESA's Authority
On April 1, 1999, Ontario Hydro’s Electrical Inspection Division became the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) assuming the responsibilities previously held by Ontario Hydro’s Electrical Inspection Division. The Electrical Safety Authority was established as a not-for-profit corporation following the Ministry of Consumer Services’s delegated administrative authority model that transfers the delivery of services previously provided by the Ministry to the private sector.
The Safety and Consumer Statutes Administration Act and an Administrative Agreement with the Ministry establish the legal framework for ESA’s operation as an Administrative Authority. In addition, ESA is designated the Ontario Authority responsible for electrical safety by Ontario Regulation 89/99.
ESA is a stand alone, financially self-sustaining not-for-profit corporation accountable to a Board of Directors operating as a Delegated Administrative Authority under the Electricity Act 1998, and with an Administrative Agreement with the Ministry of Consumer Services.
Ministry of Consumer Services
The Electrical Safety Authority was established to:
- ESA’s primary responsibility includes enforcement of the Electricity Act 1998, and Regulations, including the Ontario Electrical Safety Code, Ontario Regulation 164/99.
- Respond to fatalities, injuries and fire losses associated with electricity.
- Promote the safe use of electricity.
- Increase public awareness of the dangers of electricity, and the requirements for ensuring safe electrical applications and use.
- Increase public awareness of the requirement to have all electrical work inspected in accordance with the Ontario Electrical Safety Code.
ESA views complaints as an opportunity to strengthen relations with customers, stakeholders and the public.
ESA's Complaint Policy
