CSA C22.2 No. 35-09 (2014): Technical Requirements for Extra-Low-Voltage Control Circuit Cables and Optical Fiber Cables

Scope and Application

CSA C22.2 No. 35-09 (2014) — Extra-Low-Voltage Control Circuit Cable, Low-Energy Safety Cable, and Optical Fiber Cable — is a key standard under the Canadian Electrical Code (CE Code) series. Originally published in 2009 and reaffirmed in 2014, this standard specifies the construction, testing, and marking requirements for cables used in extra-low-voltage control circuits, low-energy safety circuits, and optical fiber systems. These cables are intended for installation in buildings in accordance with the CE Code, Part I (C22.1).

The standard covers three primary cable categories:

• Extra-Low-Voltage Control Circuit Cables — For use in Class 2 control circuits where the voltage does not exceed 150 V and the power is limited to 100 VA.
• Low-Energy Safety Cables — For fire alarm, security, and other safety systems operating at extra-low voltage with limited energy.
• Optical Fiber Cables — For communication and data transmission using optical fibers, often in plenum and riser applications.

It is important to note that this standard does not apply to power cables, communications cables for telecommunications network use, or cables intended for hazardous locations unless specifically referenced.

Technical Requirements

Construction and Materials

The standard mandates specific construction parameters for each cable type. Conductors for control and safety cables must be copper, stranded or solid, with minimum sizes specified. Insulation materials must be suitable for the rated temperature (60 °C, 75 °C, 90 °C, or 105 °C) and voltage (150 V or less for control circuits). Optical fiber cables must meet dimensional and mechanical requirements for the fiber type (single-mode or multimode).

Jacketing materials are chosen based on flame spread and smoke generation characteristics, particularly for plenum-rated cables (FT6 rating per CSA C22.2 No. 0.3). The table below summarizes key technical requirements:

Testing Requirements

All cables must pass a series of tests, including:

• Flame Tests — Vertical flame test (CSA C22.2 No. 0.3) for FT1 to FT6 ratings.
• Cold Bend Test — To verify flexibility at low temperatures.
• Dielectric Voltage-Withstand Test — For control and safety cables (1500 V or 2500 V depending on insulation).
• Smoke Density Test — Required for plenum-rated cables (FT6).
• Optical Attenuation Test — For fiber cables at specified wavelengths (850 nm, 1300 nm, 1310 nm, 1550 nm).

Implementation Highlights

Cable Types and Marking

CSA C22.2 No. 35-09 defines specific cable type designations that appear on the cable jacket:

• CSR — Extra-Low-Voltage Control Circuit Cable (general purpose)
• CSRF — Extra-Low-Voltage Control Circuit Cable (plenum)
• CSRR — Extra-Low-Voltage Control Circuit Cable (riser)
• LSR — Low-Energy Safety Cable (general purpose)
• LSRF — Low-Energy Safety Cable (plenum)
• LSRR — Low-Energy Safety Cable (riser)
• OFC — Optical Fiber Cable (general purpose)
• OFCP — Optical Fiber Cable (plenum)
• OFCR — Optical Fiber Cable (riser)

When specifying cables for a project, always match the suffix to the building location. Plenum cables (ending in F) are required in air-handling spaces, riser cables (R) for vertical shafts, and general purpose (no suffix) for other areas.

Installation Practices

Installation must comply with CE Code Section 16 or 60, depending on the cable type. Key considerations include:

• Separation from power circuits (minimum 50 mm or a barrier).
• Bending radius of at least 10 times the cable diameter (minimum 6 times for optical fiber cables).
• Support intervals (typically every 1.5 m for horizontal runs).
• Use of approved termination methods (e.g., connectors, splices for fiber).

Compliance and Certification Notes

CSA Certification

To be sold or used in Canada, cables covered by CSA C22.2 No. 35 must bear a valid CSA mark or an accredited certification mark verifying compliance. Certification involves:

• Initial product testing and factory inspection.
• Periodic follow-up audits and retesting.
• Marking of cables with manufacturer name, type designation, temperature rating, and CSA mark.

The certification body (e.g., CSA Group) retains the right to perform unannounced inspections and testing on production samples.

CE Code Adoption

CSA C22.2 No. 35 is a harmonized standard referenced in the CE Code. While many provinces and territories adopt the CE Code by regulation, local amendments may impose additional requirements. It is essential to check the applicable provincial or territorial version of the CE Code for any deviations.

Transition and Revision Status

As of 2026, users should note that CSA C22.2 No. 35 has been updated by later editions (e.g., CSA C22.2 No. 35-17 and subsequent). The 2009 edition reaffirmed in 2014 remains valid for existing installations but may be superseded for new work. Always use the most current version recognized by the authority having jurisdiction.

Frequently Asked Questions