CSA Z462 is currently a voluntary standard but like many voluntary things it can have far reaching effect. for example, if as a result of an accident it could be shown that the person supervising a job or even your employer was knowledgeable about a hazard and chose to ignore it that Z 462 could be used as evidence in an accident investigation.
Bill C-45 is a law that was drafted to hold owners and managers responsible for safety as much as the formen and front line safety guys. Z462 might not yet have legislative authority but as more people become familiar with it's intent and content that the voluntary nature starts to become compulsory. Worksafe BC is planning a review of section 19 and I am sure that Z462 will eventually form part of the section 19 rules on electrical worker safety.
