Issue link: http://digital.canadawide.com/i/292860
the client with less input and decision making power. "Depending on the client, this can work well or be a dis- appointment if the client cannot curb his or her expec- tations," notes Rajewski. Commenting on the advancements in lighting technology, Suvagau confirms that his firm has seen acceleration in the implementation of solid-state tech- nologies. "While LEDs make up the lions share when talking about solid state, others will refer to digital ballasts for fluorescent lighting, electronic ballasts for metal halide and high-pressure light sources. LEDs continue to improve in relation to light conversion efficiency and the output package, being at par with or better than conventional technologies," says Suvagau. Meanwhile, Stefanczyk says he feels that light- ing and control systems have shown the most rapid advancement and that the development of LED tech- nology provides improved efficiency for lighting sys- tems. "Control systems are becoming integrated with communications systems in the building. Addressable light bulbs, thermostats and energy outlets are becom- ing commonplace and can now be controlled from anywhere in the world using the Internet network," he explains. It is important to note that these wholesale tech- nological advancements have not been brought about by chance, but are a result of the increased focus on energy efficiency sweeping the electrical systems and communications sector today. BC Hydro ex plains t hat energ y ef f icienc y codes are pushing the efficiency of equipment and design further than before, resulting in serious challenges to old paradigms of the industry. Recent federal regulations aimed at restricting the use of incandescent and older T12 f luorescent sources, combined with the provincial adoption of more stringent design efficiency standards such as ASHRAE- IES 90.1 – 2010, are just some of the examples of this transformation. Nemetz adds that while he feels the adoption of ASHR AE-IES 90.1 – 2010 by municipalities has not been a challenge, it has added to the overall costs of electrical systems. While opinions related to overall energy-efficiency techniques might differ between contractors, all seem to be of the opinion that LEED standards are shaping the way in which the sector moves forward today. "The increased focus on LEED and green build- ing design in general has made electrical designs, specifically lighting, a lot more efficient. Requir- ing a high level of daylighting and requesting designs that ensure exterior fixtures direct light- ing to the intended surface creates a much more efficient lighting system, while also improving the surrounding area," says Rajewski. "Using Dark Sky fixtures helps with everything from circadian rhythms to bird migratory patterns, and is therefore valuable to pursue." Dallazanna notes that his firm is finding that more developers are building to LEED standards in order to capture energy-efficient technologies that offer immediate savings and long-term reductions in operating and maintenance costs. While technological progression is considered crucial, the sector has also been careful to ensure that safety standards are never compromised in its goal for increased efficiency. Safety is paramount to all engineering and construction activities and is followed through by using certified equipment, sound engineering practice and design. Cahill says that each year revisions to the Canadian Electrical Code ( CEC) affect electrical design, installa- tion and safety. "There are new safety requirements pertaining to emerging technologies, including renew- able energy and electric vehicle charging, and greater understanding of the impact of new and updated code changes on installation/calculation methods, including conductor capacity, bonding and grounding requirements," she says. Meanwhile, Rajewski says that recently introduced arc flash legislation has made mandatory labelling on panels with personal protective equipment ( PPE) requirements easier to understand, which has aided in the prevention of accidents. He says: "Most general contractors, as well as electrical contractors, con- sider site safety to be a priority and ensure that onsite visitors and/or construction workers are properly trained on safety rules and regulations to ensure a safe work site." Dallazanna confirms this and adds that t wo years ago, both Allwest Electric Ltd. and Grand West Electric Ltd. went through the process of obtain- ing a Certificate of Recognition ( COR) – quite the undertaking for a company of its size. "After having [a COR] implemented for just over two years now we are safer and better for it. The commitment to safety must be implemented from the top down and has to become part of the company's culture," says Dallazanna. While it is impossible to accurately predict what is in store for the sector this year, one thing is certain – progression is key. Contractors will need to ensure that they are up to speed on legislation, education and efficiency expectations from both customers and the industry. n april 2014 /35 Electrical and Communication Systems p32-35_Electrical-Comm.indd 35 14-04-02 4:53 PM