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Scope and Application
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CSA C22.2 No. 42-10 (2017), also known as General Requirements for Receptacles, Switches, and Wiring Devices, is a foundational standard within the Canadian Electrical Code (CE Code) Part II series. It establishes uniform safety and performance criteria for wiring devices rated up to 600 V AC and up to 200 A, intended for use in residential, commercial, and industrial installations that comply with the CE Code Part I. This article provides a detailed technical analysis of the standard’s scope, essential requirements, implementation considerations, and compliance pathways for manufacturers, engineers, and specifiers.
“, “Scope and Application
“, “The standard applies to AC-only receptacles, switches, and general-purpose wiring devices—including plug connectors, lamp holders, and devices incorporating special features such as pilot lights or lock-on functions. It specifically covers devices rated for use on circuits not exceeding 600 V AC at a nominal frequency of 60 Hz. The standard does not apply to DC-rated devices, devices for hazardous locations (covered by CSA C22.2 No. 157), or low-voltage devices (e.g., those for telecommunications).
“, “Grounding continuity and bonding integrity are critical. CSA C22.2 No. 42-10 mandates that all metallic current‑carrying parts be bonded to the grounding circuit. Improper grounding can lead to electric shock hazards and non‑compliance with the standard.
“, “Key Technical Requirements
“, “Construction and Materials
“, “The standard specifies minimum requirements for enclosures, contacts, terminals, and insulation. All live parts must be enclosed in an insulating material that meets flame‑retardant and impact‑resistance criteria. Terminal screws must be corrosion‑resistant and sized to accommodate copper or copper‑clad aluminum conductors as per Table 1. Receptacles must incorporate a shutter system for protected openings when rated 20 A or less.
“, “Table 1: Typical termination torque requirements per conductor size for copper conductors. Manufacturers must indicate the required torque on the device or packaging.
“, “Performance Testing
“, “Devices must pass dielectric voltage‑withstand (hi‑pot) tests at twice rated voltage plus 1000 V, insulation resistance tests (≥ 5 MΩ), and temperature rise tests at rated current. For receptacles, the standard requires a plug insertion/withdrawal endurance test of 10 000 cycles with no contact loosening. Switches must survive 30 000 operations at full load without mechanical or electrical failure.
“, “Compliance with CSA C22.2 No. 42-10 is widely accepted as evidence of conformity to the CE Code Part I requirements for wiring devices. A valid CSA certification mark on the product reduces delays during field inspections and ensures market access.
“, “Marking and Documentation
“, “Each device must be permanently marked with the manufacturer’s name or trademark, catalog number, ratings (volts, amperes), and appropriate certification marks (e.g., CSA). The standard also requires that instructions for mounting, wiring, and torque settings be supplied with the product or printed on the device. Any deviation from standard ratings (e.g., for aluminum conductors) must be clearly indicated.
“, “Implementation and Design Considerations
“, “Designers should note that the standard harmonizes with UL 498 (receptacles) and UL 20 (switches) in many areas but retains Canadian‑specific differences:
“, “When designing for both Canadian and US markets, verify that the product simultaneously satisfies CSA C22.2 No. 42‑10 and UL 498. Pay close attention to grounding‑blade tolerances and marking format. A dual‑listing project plan can reduce testing costs and time to market.
“, “Compliance and Certification
“, “Certification to CSA C22.2 No. 42-10 is typically performed by accredited bodies such as CSA Group, UL, or Intertek. The process includes evaluation of construction, testing per the standard, and periodic factory follow‑up inspections. Products that comply are eligible to bear the CSA mark or recognized marks under the CE Code Part II.
“, “A frequent cause of non‑compliance is the omission of the required grounding‑continuity test for metal faceplates. The test must verify a resistance of ≤ 0.1 Ω between the grounding terminal and any exposed metal part. Failing this test can result in rejection at certification or field inspection.
“, “Manufacturers must also maintain records of all conformity assessment documentation for at least five years after production ceases. The standard is referenced in provincial adoption documents; therefore, products bearing CSA or equivalent marks are generally accepted throughout Canada.
“, “Frequently Asked Questions
“, “Q: Does CSA C22.2 No. 42-10 apply to GFCI or AFCI receptacles?
A: The standard covers the general requirements for the receptacle portion of such devices. Specific requirements for ground‑fault or arc‑fault protection are found in other Part II standards (e.g., CSA C22.2 No. 144 for GFCI). However, the mechanical construction and terminal provisions of the device must still meet No. 42‑10.
“, “A: The standard covers the general requirements for the receptacle portion of such devices. Specific requirements for ground‑fault or arc‑fault protection are found in other Part II standards (e.g., CSA C22.2 No. 144 for GFCI). However, the mechanical construction and terminal provisions of the device must still meet No. 42‑10.
Q: What is the relationship between this standard and the Canadian Electrical Code Part I?
A: CSA C22.2 No. 42-10 is a Part II product standard developed to provide detailed construction and test criteria. Compliance with the standard provides a presumption of conformity with the related installation requirements of Part I, such as Rules 26‑702 and 26‑712 for receptacles and switches.
“, “A: CSA C22.2 No. 42-10 is a Part II product standard developed to provide detailed construction and test criteria. Compliance with the standard provides a presumption of conformity with the related installation requirements of Part I, such as Rules 26‑702 and 26‑712 for receptacles and switches.
Q: Are there separate requirements for wire‑binding screws vs. pressure‑plate terminals?
A: Yes. The standard specifies different pull‑out force and torque values for each type. Pressure‑plate terminals must withstand 50 N pull‑out force without loosening, while screw terminals rely on the torque values given in the manufacturer’s instructions, with a minimum of 1.5 N·m for 10 AWG and larger. Always consult the latest edition for precise values.
“, “A: Yes. The standard specifies different pull‑out force and torque values for each type. Pressure‑plate terminals must withstand 50 N pull‑out force without loosening, while screw terminals rely on the torque values given in the manufacturer’s instructions, with a minimum of 1.5 N·m for 10 AWG and larger. Always consult the latest edition for precise values.
Q: Can a product certified to UL 498 be sold in Canada without additional testing?
A: Not automatically. While the requirements are similar, CSA C22.2 No. 42-10 includes Canadian‑specific tests (e.g., different grounding‑blade dimensions, 347 V switch tests, and temperature‑rise limits at 60 Hz). A separate certification or an addendum evaluation is normally required.
“, “A: Not automatically. While the requirements are similar, CSA C22.2 No. 42-10 includes Canadian‑specific tests (e.g., different grounding‑blade dimensions, 347 V switch tests, and temperature‑rise limits at 60 Hz). A separate certification or an addendum evaluation is normally required.
Article prepared for technical guidance purposes. For full regulatory compliance, reference the current edition of CSA C22.2 No. 42-10 and consult a certified testing laboratory. — 2026
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