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Understanding CSA C22.2 No. 42.1-13 (2017): General Use Receptacles, Attachment Plugs, and Similar Wiring Devices
Key Requirements and Compliance Guidelines for Canadian Electrical Wiring Devices
CSA C22.2 No. 42.1-13 (2017) is the Canadian national standard governing general use receptacles, attachment plugs, cord connectors, and similar wiring devices intended for use in non-hazardous locations in accordance with the Canadian Electrical Code (CE Code). Published under the Canada – United States Regulatory Cooperation Council framework, this standard aligns closely with international safety practices while addressing specific Canadian installation requirements.
Scope and Application
The standard applies to devices rated not exceeding 250 V and 30 A, designed for ordinary use in dry, damp, or wet locations. Covered products include:
- Grounding and non-grounding receptacles
- Attachment plugs (caps) and cord connectors
- Current taps and outlet boxes
- Weatherproof covers and accessories
Tip: CSA C22.2 No. 42.1-13 (2017) serves as the primary reference for product certification in Canada. Manufacturers should cross‑reference with UL 498 (USA) for bi‑national approvals.
The standard specifically excludes devices with integrated GFCI or AFCI protection, which fall under separate product standards (e.g., CSA C22.2 No. 144). It also does not cover pin‑and‑sleeve devices (CSA C22.2 No. 42.2).
Technical Requirements
Construction and Materials
- Enclosures – Must be of non‑combustible or self‑extinguishing material; metal parts shall be corrosion‑resistant.
- Current‑carrying parts – Copper or copper alloy; tin or silver plating required for certain environments.
- Polarity and grounding – Polarized configurations mandatory for general‑use receptacles (e.g., 5‑15R). Grounding path must be continuous with a resistance not exceeding 0.1 Ω.
Marking Requirements
Each device must be permanently marked with:
- Rated voltage and current (e.g., 125 V, 15 A)
- Manufacturer’s name or trademark
- CSA certification monogram
- Type designation (e.g., “5‑15R”, “5‑15P”)
Important: For devices intended for outdoor use, the mark “W” (weatherproof) must be added. Failure to mark correctly can lead to rejection during inspection.
Performance and Testing
Sample devices must pass a sequence of tests in an accredited laboratory. Table 1 summarizes key acceptance criteria:
| Test | Condition | Acceptance Criterion |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature rise | Rated current for 4 h | ≤ 30 °C above ambient |
| Overload | 150 % rated current for 50 cycles | No arc, flame, or electrical failure |
| Humidity | 93 % RH, 40 °C for 7 days | Insulation resistance ≥ 500 kΩ |
| Grounding continuity | 30 A for 2 min | Resistance ≤ 0.1 Ω |
| Mechanical strength | Impact test (1 J at −10 °C) | No cracking exposing live parts |
Note: The standard also includes dielectric voltage‑withstand tests (1250 V for 1 min) and strain‑relief tests for cord connectors.
Compliance and Certification
Certification Process
Manufacturers must submit samples to a recognized certification organization (e.g., CSA Group, UL Canada) for testing. Upon successful completion, a factory inspection is conducted, and the product is covered by a Certificate of Compliance. Routine follow‑up inspections ensure continued conformity.
Field Use and Acceptance
In Canada, electrical inspection authorities (e.g., ESA, BCSA) require that all receptacles and attachment plugs bear the CSA monogram or be certified by a qualified body. Compliance with CSA C22.2 No. 42.1-13 (2017) is mandatory for installation under the CE Code.
Non‑compliance risk: Using non‑certified devices voids insurance and may lead to equipment failure, electrical shock, or fire. Always verify the “CSA” mark or an equivalent accreditation.
Revision Highlights (2013 Edition Reaffirmed 2017)
While the 2017 reaffirmation did not introduce technical changes, it maintained alignment with the 2015 edition of the CE Code and clarified marking requirements for weather‑resistant devices. Users should always refer to the latest edition (currently 2013 confirmed 2017) for regulatory purposes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does CSA C22.2 No. 42.1-13 (2017) cover GFCI or AFCI receptacles?
A: No. Ground‑fault circuit‑interrupters (GFCI) and arc‑fault circuit‑interrupters (AFCI) are covered by their own product standards, namely CSA C22.2 No. 144 (GFCI) and CSA C22.2 No. 282 (AFCI). However, the mechanical and basic electrical safety requirements of those devices reference CSA 42.1 for the receptacle portion.
A: No. Ground‑fault circuit‑interrupters (GFCI) and arc‑fault circuit‑interrupters (AFCI) are covered by their own product standards, namely CSA C22.2 No. 144 (GFCI) and CSA C22.2 No. 282 (AFCI). However, the mechanical and basic electrical safety requirements of those devices reference CSA 42.1 for the receptacle portion.
Q: How does CSA C22.2 No. 42.1 compare to UL 498?
A: The two standards are substantially harmonized under the United States – Canada Regulatory Cooperation Council. Differences exist mainly in markings, polarity configurations, and specific test conditions for Canadian environments. For example, minimum temperature for impact tests is −10 °C in CSA 42.1 vs. −20 °C in UL 498 for certain enclosures.
A: The two standards are substantially harmonized under the United States – Canada Regulatory Cooperation Council. Differences exist mainly in markings, polarity configurations, and specific test conditions for Canadian environments. For example, minimum temperature for impact tests is −10 °C in CSA 42.1 vs. −20 °C in UL 498 for certain enclosures.
Q: Are attachments plugs for hospital‑grade devices required to comply with this standard?
A: Hospital‑grade devices referenced in CSA Z32 must meet the requirements of CSA C22.2 No. 42.1 for general safety, but additional performance criteria (e.g., enhanced grounding reliability, mechanical locking) are specified in CSA C22.2 No. 42.1 as supplementary markings.
A: Hospital‑grade devices referenced in CSA Z32 must meet the requirements of CSA C22.2 No. 42.1 for general safety, but additional performance criteria (e.g., enhanced grounding reliability, mechanical locking) are specified in CSA C22.2 No. 42.1 as supplementary markings.
Q: Where can I find the latest version of the standard?
A: The official text of CSA C22.2 No. 42.1-13 (2017) is available from CSA Group (www.csagroup.org) or through authorized standards distributors. Always verify that you are using the reaffirmed edition for current compliance.
A: The official text of CSA C22.2 No. 42.1-13 (2017) is available from CSA Group (www.csagroup.org) or through authorized standards distributors. Always verify that you are using the reaffirmed edition for current compliance.
Article prepared for general informational purposes. Technical compliance should always be verified with the latest published standard and qualified legal counsel. Published 2026.