Here's why you should always ask your signage provider if your electrical sign will be certified for use in Canada. Certification can be done by a number of different agencies, the most popular being CSA (Canadian Standards Association), UL (Underwriters Laboratories), and ETL (Intertek). This ensures that the wiring and materials used are of the proper type and thickness, and that the components used are also certified for electrical safety. This ensures that your sign has been built to code.
Safety: Electrical signs involve the use of electricity, wiring, and potentially other components that can pose safety hazards if not designed, manufactured, and installed correctly. Certification ensures that the sign meets safety standards, minimizing the risk of electrical fires, shock hazards, and other accidents.
Compliance: Many regions have regulations and codes that dictate the design and installation of electrical signs. By obtaining certification, you demonstrate that your sign complies with these standards, which helps you avoid legal and regulatory issues. Non-compliant signs could lead to fines, penalties, or even the need to remove and replace the sign.
Reliability: Certified electrical signs have undergone testing and evaluation to verify their performance and durability. This gives you confidence that the sign will function reliably over time, reducing the likelihood of malfunctions that could disrupt your business or messaging.
Quality: Certification often includes checks for the quality of materials, construction, and manufacturing processes. This means that your electrical sign is less likely to degrade quickly due to environmental factors, wear and tear, or other stressors.
Insurance and Liability: Certified signs can reduce your liability in case of accidents caused by faulty signage. Moreover, if a non-certified sign causes an electrical fire or additional damage, your insurance company may be able to deny your claim or a case may be made for negligence.
Professionalism: A certified electrical sign reflects a commitment to professionalism and responsible business practices. It demonstrates that you take the safety of your customers, employees, and visitors seriously and are invested in providing a high-quality experience.
Long-term Cost Savings: While obtaining certification might involve upfront costs, the long-term benefits outweigh the initial investment. Certified signs are less likely to require frequent repairs or replacements, saving you money in the long run.
Customer Confidence: Certified electrical signs can enhance your reputation and foster trust among your customers. They'll feel more comfortable interacting with your business when they see that you prioritize safety and quality.
Efficient Permitting: When applying for permits to install your electrical sign, having certification is necessary in the approval process. Inspectors will not approve your installation if they can not confirm that it meets recognized safety and quality standards. Further to this, electricians are not supposed to connect uncertified electrical devices to power.
Ensuring your electrical sign is certified is essential for safety, compliance, reliability, quality, professionalism, cost savings, customer confidence, permitting efficiency, and liability reduction. It's a strategic investment that contributes to the overall success and reputation of your business for the long term.