Hydrogen Energy Installation

Permitting Hydrogen
and Fuel Cell

Installations in
Canada
A Guide to Codes, Standards and Regulations,
Authorities, and Approval Processes
Permitting Hydrogen
and Fuel Cell
Installations in Canada
A Guide to Codes, Standards and Regulations,
Authorities, and Approval Processes
Prepared by:
Air Liquide Canada
with support from
Canadian Transportation and Fuel Cell Alliance

of
Natural Resources Canada

March 2008
Acknowledgements
This document, Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Installations in Canada: A Guide to Codes, Standards and
Regulations, Approval Processes, and Authorities is a supported by a collaborative effort among many
parties.
Thanks to those who helped provide data and other key information or offered their support:
Oscar Alonso, Technical Standards and Safety Authority
Pascal Caron, Scurit incendie Montral
Elise Chan, British Columbia Office of Housing & Construction Standards
Franois Ct, City of Montral, Economic Development Department
Al Davidson, DMA Technical Services
Jonathan J. Dogterom, Hydrogenics Corporation
Sylvie Gingras, Bureau de normalisation du Qubec
Gary Howard, Safety and Forensic Engineering
Ed Hurd, British Columbia Safety Authority
Brenon Knaggs, Ballard Power Systems
Madiha Kotb, Rgie du btiment du Qubec
Samuel F. Lam, Ministry of Transportation, Commercial Vehicle Safety and Enforcement Division
Erling O. Nyborg, Nyborg Professional Services
Jonathan Poitras, Air Liquide Canada
Jacques Renaud, Rgie du btiment du Qubec
Jean-Louis Robert, JOL Consultant
Alison Setton, Hydrogen Highway
Andrei V. Tchouvelev, A. V. Tchouvelev & Associates
Joanne Schafer, Natural Resources Canada
G. Rymal Smith, Hydrogen Village
Thanks to Air Liquide Canada for project support and to Pierre Gauthier and Kimberly Curran for special
guidance.
Thanks to Richard Fry, Ian McIntyre and the rest of the team at the former Canadian Transportation and
Fuel Cell Alliance (CTFCA) of Natural Resources Canada, whose financial contributions made this
initiative possible.
Special recognition goes to the core project team for their determination, expertise, and plain hard
work:
Dr. D. R. Hay, TISEC Inc.
Jean Dub, HyExpert Inc.
Susana Katz, S. Katz & Associates
Sandra Oh, Air Liquide Canada
About the Authors

In alphabetical order:
Jean Dub
Mr. Dub is the CEO of Services Mij Inc., which has provided professional management services since 1988. Its
subsidiary, HyExpert Inc., performs studies and assessments and develops collaborative websites to increase
cooperation among hydrogen advocates. His past assignments include various senior management functions for the
Nuclear Energy Agency of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, the Hydrogen Industry
Council, and Stuart Energy Systems Inc. to name a few. In an international role, Mr. Dub has participated in several
hydrogen-related tasks of the International Energy Agency. In Canada, Mr. Dub has contributed his expertise to
various groups, such as, Hydrogen Research Institute of University of Qubec at Trois-Rivires and the federal
governments Hydrogen Road Map Working Group, among many more. He is a founding member of the Canadian
Hydrogen Economy Development Cooperative. Mr. Dub has a Masters degree in Physics from University of Qubec
at Trois-Rivires.
Dr. D. Robert Hay

Dr. Robert Hay is the president of TISEC Inc., a company that provides engineering reliability and non-destructive
testing services and performs safety analyses of large-scale pressurized storage and transport systems. As a founding
member of the Hydrogen Industry Council, he served as its Technical Director for several years. Dr. Hay is also a
founding member of International Organization for Standardization Technical Committee (ISO TC 197) for Hydrogen
Technologies and has served on its working groups since. TISEC has developed several multimedia engineering
reference materials as well as the Sourcebook for Hydrogen Applications, a collaborative effort with the U.S.
Department of Energy, Natural Resources Canada, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, and the University of
Qubec at Trois-Rivires.
Susana Katz
Having worked for both government and private industry, Ms. Susana Katz brings a wealth of knowledge related to
management of safety programs, quality assurance, standardization, equipment design and manufacture, and
destructive and non-destructive testing of systems, among others. Today, Ms. Katz leads S. Katz & Associates, a
consulting company that examines trends and accident/incident statistics, and, performs root cause analysis, risk
evaluation analysis, and management. She also works on various interprovincial and international working groups
where she has gained the respect of colleagues who admire her industrial experience woven with a working
knowledge of Canadas legal system. Ms. Katz has spoken at a number of prestigious conferences, such as, the CSA
Annual General Meeting and the Alberta Pressure Equipment Conference. She is the recipient of the CSA Merit
Award for her work in standards writing.
Sandra Oh
Ms. Sandra Oh is responsible for a number of hydrogen energy projects at Air Liquide Canada. Having taken the lead
on some of the companys first hydrogen refuelling installations in North America, she brings practical experience to
enhance the applicability of this Guide, particularly focused on its user-friendliness for the respect of future projects.
Prior to joining Air Liquide, Sandra successfully completed her undergraduate thesis on the Hydrogen Economy; a
60-page study that captured the overall energy efficiency of a hydrogen-based infrastructure. It provided her with a
broad understanding of the production, transportation, storage and use of hydrogen and fuel cells. Sandra graduated
from the Chemical Engineering program of the University of Toronto. She is passionate about sustainable
development through energy efficiency and is a member of the Board of Directors of the Toronto Atmospheric Fund
with the City of Toronto.
Contents
Disclaimer ............................................................................................................... 1
Introduction ............................................................................... 2
Elements of the Guide............................................................................................. 2
Stakeholders ........................................................................................................... 2
Geographic Scope ................................................................................................... 3
Types of Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Installations......................................................... 3
Hydrogen Dispensing System Installations ...................................................................... 3
Stationary Fuel Cell System Installations ......................................................................... 3
Vehicular or Mobile Fuel Cell System Installations........................................................... 4
Portable Fuel Cell System Installations ............................................................................ 4
On-Site Hydrogen Generation Installations ..................................................................... 5
Canada-Wide System.................................................................. 6
Definition of Authority Having Jurisdiction ............................................................. 6
Codes and Standards Governing Canadian Hydrogen Installations ........................ 6
Obtaining Approvals for New Hydrogen Facilities .................................................. 7
Registration of Pressure Vessels and Pressure Fittings ........................................... 8
Best Practice Recommendations............................................................................. 8
Risk Informed Design ....................................................................................................... 8
Personnel Training........................................................................................................... 9
Operation ........................................................................................................................ 9
Emergency Response Planning ........................................................................................ 9
British Columbia ....................................................................... 11

Installation of Hydrogen Dispensing Systems ...................................................12
Installation of Stationary Fuel Cell Systems......................................................14
Installation of Vehicular or Mobile Hydrogen Systems .....................................16
Installation of Portable Fuel Cell Systems.........................................................18
Installation of On-Site Hydrogen Generation Systems......................................20
The Specific Requirements per Each Authority Having Jurisdiction...................22
BC Hydro ............................................................................................................... 22
British Columbia Safety Authority ......................................................................... 23
Fire Department (Municipal)................................................................................. 28
Local Governments ............................................................................................... 30
Ministry of Transportation.................................................................................... 30
Appendices ......................................................................................................32
Electricity Generator Interconnection - Useful Documents ............................................ 32
Example of BCSA Design Registration Form................................................................... 33
BCSA Approved Certification Marks for Electrical Products ........................................... 34
Class Locations .............................................................................................................. 35
Ontario..................................................................................... 36
Installation of Vehicular or Mobile Fuel Cell Systems .......................................41
The Specific Requirements per Each Authority Having Jurisdiction...................47
Building and Planning Department (Municipal).................................................... 47
Electrical Safety Authority..................................................................................... 48
Ministry of Environment ....................................................................................... 50
Ministry of Labour................................................................................................. 51
Ontario Energy Board ........................................................................................... 52
Technical Standards & Safety Authority ............................................................... 53
Appendices ......................................................................................................55
Example of ESA Inspection Application Form................................................................. 55
ESA Approved Certification Marks for Electrical Products.............................................. 56
Example of TSSA Application for Approval of High Pressure System Form..................... 57
Qubec..................................................................................... 58
Installation of Vehicular or Mobile Fuel Cell Systems .......................................61
The Specific Requirements per Each Authorities Having Jurisdiction ................65
Fire Protection Engineering Services.............................................................................. 66
Hydro Qubec ....................................................................................................... 67

Ministry of Sustainable Development, Environment and Parks ............................ 68
The Rgie .............................................................................................................. 68
Societe dassurance automobile du Qubec ......................................................... 70
Zoning Department (Municipal)............................................................................ 70
Disclaimer
Responsibilities of the Reader
Given that the hydrogen and fuel cell regulatory processes are evolving at an increasing pace and even if
much care has gone into the preparation of this Permitting Guide it is the responsibility of the reader to
verify with the appropriate authorities having jurisdiction that the processes described in the current
Permitting Guide are valid at the time of use.
It is assumed that those responsible for the design, manufacture, and installation of hydrogen systems are
minimally familiar with many of the standards, authorities, and practices mentioned here. Hydrogen
energy systems are typically complex systems requiring high levels of technical expertise and experienced
knowledge of the safety requirements for them.
Limitations
This Guide does not include business licenses required to manufacture any of the systems or components
of systems mentioned above. The scope of this document is restricted to the installation of such
equipment and does not include any necessary product certifications, business licenses, or associated
requirements for the operation of the installed systems.
Sources of Information
Apart from knowledge gained through experience, some of the information contained hereafter were
sourced from provincial legislation, websites of regulatory authorities, and interviews with members of
regulatory agencies and the hydrogen industry. The interviews were used to validate information, to
better understand the processes involved, and to determine the regulatory revision processes and their
timing. Finally the lessons learned from early developers of hydrogen and fuel cell projects were used to
provide the reader with an additional validation mechanism.
Provinces, municipalities, and their respective administrations vary in sizes and complexity and some
provide more services than others. As a result, the permitting processes in some areas are more
developed than those in others.
Introduction
Introduction
As the hydrogen energy industry continues to emerge in Canada and around the globe, it is imperative
that Canadian developers of such systems ensure appropriate levels of safety and quality. Canada, as a
leading innovator of hydrogen technologies, continues to seek effective ways to assist growth in this new
industry and thus maintain its status as a leader.
One of the problems facing a number of hydrogen energy developers is the confusion over approval
processes. Questions like, What kind of approval is required? and Who do I turn to? is not so clear in
the hydrogen energy world. Adding to this confusion is that a vast amount of information already exists,
but it is scattered, secured among various specialists from different areas, and typically gleaned by wordof-mouth practices.
In response to the problem, this guide aims to explain the permitting process for hydrogen and fuel cell
installations. As the first of its kind in Canada, it strives to be a key reference tool for those put in charge
of putting equipment in, safely, effectively, and legally.
Elements of the Guide

This guide provides background on relevant authorities, codes, standards, and regulations, and on the
procedures for obtaining approvals for designs, facilities and installations from the appropriate authorities
having jurisdiction (AHJ). This guide includes:
>
An overview of the specific codes, standards, and regulations that govern hydrogen installations
>
Identification of AHJs that are responsible for regulating each aspect of a hydrogen installation
>
Instructions on how to apply for approval of a design or facility, including identification of the
supporting documents that are required
Finally, due to the layout of the document, the reader can assume a top-down learning process from the
bigger national picture, or proceed bottom-up, by moving first to the details of the jurisdiction or
technology of interest.
Stakeholders
There are numerous hydrogen technology stakeholders interested in regulatory approvals system.
>
Project owners or their designated installers
>
Designers such as engineers and architects
>
Authorities having jurisdiction (AHJs)
>
Construction specialists, including contractors and building owners
>
Investors and insurers
Introduction
Geographic Scope
This Guide specifically addresses approvals for facilities installed in the following jurisdictions:
British Columbia
Ontario
Qubec
Types of Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Installations

For the purposes of this document, all the fuel cell systems in this Guide are supplied with gaseous
hydrogen. Descriptions of fuel cell systems do not apply to reformate or direct fuel cell systems that are
supplied by natural gas, kerosene, methanol, etc.
Hydrogen Dispensing System Installations

Hydrogen dispensing systems are needed to refuel vehicles that run on, most often, gaseous hydrogen.
The supply of hydrogen varies; it may either be produced on-site by electrolysis or natural gas
reformation, or, it will be brought to site in compressed gas tube trailers or liquid tankers. Liquid delivery
will require liquid storage and a vaporization unit at the site. Since vehicles require very high pressure
refuelling, compression and high pressure storage of hydrogen gas are part of the total infrastructure.
Electronic controls and dispensing units to direct and deliver hydrogen product are essential pieces of the
full system. Some elements, such as compression or storage units, will be delivered to site as packaged or
partially assembled units; thus some assembly is required to connect utilities and feedstock supply.
UTILITIES
ON-SITE
GENERATION
or
GASEOUS TUBE
TRAILER
or
LIQUID TANKER
VAPORIZER
CONTROL AND
COMPRESSION
UNIT
(If feedstock is
liquefied hydrogen)
DISPENSING
UNIT
HYDROGEN
STORAGE
Figure 1. Gaseous hydrogen dispensing systems including gaseous or liquefied hydrogen feedstock, piping
assemblies, control and compression units, electrical wiring installation, storage, and dispensing units.
Stationary Fuel Cell System Installations

Stationary fuel cells systems are used as either uninterruptible power supply or as back-up power supply.
The system is usually composed of an electricity generating component made up of fuel cell modules or
power plants.
The supply of gaseous hydrogen may be a compressed hydrogen tube trailer or a bundle of high pressure
cylinders, depending on consumption rates. Some field assembly is required for piping between the
components. For the purposes of this Guide, on-site hydrogen generation equipment is excluded from
the scope.
Introduction
GASEOUS TUBE
TRAILER
or
MULTI-CYLINDER
BUNDLES
PERMANENT
GASEOUS STORAGE
STATIONARY
FUEL CELL
(If included)
ELECTRICITY GRID
or
OTHER
Figure 2. Stationary fuel cell system installation including hydrogen storage, piping assembly, and interconnection
with electrical grid.
Vehicular or Mobile Fuel Cell System Installations

This Guides description of a vehicular or mobile fuel cell system takes into consideration the on-board
storage vessels, the piping assembly including valves and other fittings, the vent line, and the fuelling
interface. Apart from the components within the vehicle, this Guide also considers the maintenance or
parking facilities for such vehicles. Often times, additional attention is drawn to the locations where the
vehicles will be serviced, parked, or allowed to circulate in cities.
The fuel cell may already be certified or approved for use. Uncertified equipment that is custom-made,
built or assembled on site, or produced in limited numbers will require special approvals by authorities
having jurisdiction.
ON-BOARD GASEOUS
HYDROGEN STORAGE
VEHICLE
FUEL CELL
VEHICLE
MOTOR
HYDROGEN-FUELLED VEHICLE
PARKING & MAINTENANCE FACILITY
Figure 3. Vehicular or mobile fuel cell system including on-board hydrogen storage and piping assembly.
Additional considerations are made for the maintenance or parking facilities.
Portable Fuel Cell System Installations

For the purposes of this Guide, portable fuel cell systems include a compressed gas storage vessel as part
of a packaged unit. If used for small applications, such as powering radios or laptops, the storage
container may be a refillable hydrogen cartridge. For larger applications, the system may be
transportable on wheels and come equipped with cylinders of compressed gas.
Since the nature of a portable system is, in simple terms, plug and play, it should bear full product
certification marks. Similarly, the storage vessels need to bear appropriate registration marks to be
recognized as a nationally approved vessel. Field assembly is considerably minimized for this type of
system.
Introduction
GASEOUS HYDROGEN
STORAGE
PORTABLE
FUEL CELL
APPLIANCE
Figure 4. Portable fuel cell system including gaseous hydrogen storage and piping assembly.
On-Site Hydrogen Generation Installations

On-site hydrogen generation units used for demonstration projects are typically electrolysers or steammethane gas reformers (SMR). Most electrolyser manufacturers deliver self-contained, skid-mounted
units, which will require some civil works, connections to utilities, and piped connections to the process
where hydrogen is used. While small electrolysers can be located inside an existing facility, larger ones,
SMRs, or other hydrogen generating systems, will likely be located outdoors. Components, such as
compressor and storage units, are often delivered separately. As a result, some field assembly is required
for piping and electrical connections. In some cases, hydrogen supply may be supplemented with the
addition of compressed gas tube trailers or liquid tankers.
TUBE TRAILER
UTILITIES
FEEDSTOCK
Examples:
Water
Hydrocarbons
Biomass
HYDROGEN
PRODUCTION
COMPONENT
PROCESS
REQUIRING
HYDROGEN
COMPRESSION
UNIT
Examples:
Electrolyser
Reformer
Synthesis-gas unit
HYDROGEN
STORAGE
COMPONENT
UTILITIES
LIQUID TANKER
(Gaseous or liquid)
Figure 5. On-site hydrogen generation installation including piping assemblies, gaseous tube trailers or liquid
tankers, electrical wiring installation, compression equipment, and storage units
NO MATTER THE TYPE OF TECHNOLOGY

Whether the objective is to dispense or produce hydrogen, or, it is to offer electrical power or mobility,
each type of system is designed to perform under certain operating conditions. Therefore, all systems will
undergo testing of each component and of the overall assembly at those conditions.
All installations shall respect the manufacturers instructions, including any requirements for field
assembly, adequate venting, safety requirements for any new electrical devices entering the classified
hazardous zones, and contractor qualifications, to name a few.
Some components, especially if they are electrical, will need to arrive on site with product certification
marks. Otherwise, uncertified equipment will require field certification marks.
Canada-Wide
IN THIS SECTION
System
>
Definition of Authority Having Jurisdiction
>
Codes and Standards Governing Canadian Hydrogen

Installations
>
Obtaining Approvals for New Hydrogen Facilities
>
Registration of Pressure Vessels and Pressure Fittings
>
Best Practice Recommendations
Canada-Wide System
Canada-Wide System
Although this Guide will focus on three provinces, namely, British Columbia, Ontario and Qubec, this
section of the Guide addresses the common aspects of approving hydrogen installations that all provinces
and territories share.
The reader is advised to read this section in addition to province-specific sections.
Definition of Authority Having Jurisdiction

An authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) is a body empowered by an act or regulation to enforce specific
requirements, such as a safety code or a regulated standard, or it is an agency designated to exercise such
a function. Canadian AHJs, in most cases, are the provincial governments who carry the responsibility to
development and enforce specific safety regulations that are assigned to related departments. These
regulations are then utilized by local officials, such as building inspectors or fire chiefs, who may be
employed by a provincial or federal government department, a city, a municipality or a planning district.
The person delegated with local responsibility of regulatory decision-making varies from location to
location.
Regardless of the organization, all AHJs share a common purpose, which is to protect the general public.
Codes and Standards Governing Canadian Hydrogen Installations

Canadian hydrogen installations must be constructed in conformance with appropriate municipal,
territorial or provincial regulations, or in the absence of such regulations, in conformance with the
requirements of the national model safety codes, as follows:
>
Canadian Hydrogen Installation Code (CAN/BNQ 1784-000 (2007))
>
Boiler, Pressure Vessel and Pressure Piping Code (CSA B51-03)
>
Canadian Electrical Code, Part 1, 20th Edition (CSA C22.1-06)
>
The Canadian Gas Codes:
Natural Gas and Propane Installation Code (CSA B149.1-05)
Propane Storage and Handling Code (CSA B149.2-05)
Natural Gas Fuelling Stations Installation Code (CAN/CSA B108-99 (C2004))
>
National Building Code of Canada 2006
>
National Fire Code of Canada 2005
>
National Plumbing Code of Canada 2005
The Canadian Hydrogen Installation Code (CHIC) is developed by the Bureau de normalisation du Qubec
(BNQ), while all the pressure vessel, electrical, and gas codes are developed by the Canadian Standards
Canada-Wide System
Association (CSA). The building, fire and

plumbing codes are developed at the Codes
Centre, Institute for Research in Construction,
National Research Council of Canada.
Since the Canadian model codes are national
in nature, almost all of them are adopted by
all the Canadian provinces and territories with
only minor provincial deviations.
At the time of writing this document, the
newly published CHIC is not yet adopted by
all provinces and territories, but it has been
approved by the Interprovincial Gas Advisory
Council (IGAC), which represents 14 regulatory
authorities across Canada from the federal,
provincial and territorial regions.
It is adopted in Ontario, under the Technical
Standards and Safety Act and is enforced by
the Technical Standards and Safety Authority
of Ontario. The AHJs in the other provinces
and territories will adopt the CHIC in due
course based on their legislation revision
cycle.
Until the CHIC is adopted, a good
practice is voluntary conformance to the
requirements of this code.
IN DEPTH:
THE CANADIAN HYDROGEN

INSTALLATION CODE
The CAN/BNQ 1784-000 Canadian Hydrogen

Installation Code (CHIC) was published in 2007 as a
National Standard of Canada. The first of its kind, it fills
a gap and provides Canadian industry and regulatory
authorities with a much needed tool for hydrogen
installations.
The CHIC establishes installation requirements for
hydrogen generating equipment, hydrogen utilization
equipment, hydrogen dispensing equipment, hydrogen
storage containers, hydrogen piping systems and their
related accessories. It applies to all gaseous and liquid
hydrogen applications except those used for industrial
processes; industrial installations to produce liquid
hydrogen; hydrogen installations on board vehicles;
hydrogen transportation, including transmission
pipelines and micro fuel cell systems for electronic
equipment.
More specifically, the CHIC addresses all aspects of the
following hydrogen technology energy applications:
>
Stationary and portable fuel-cell installations

including residential installations
>
Vehicle fuelling stations
>
Hydrogen generating installations

electrolysers and reformers
>
Gaseous and liquid hydrogen storage and

related piping, including tube trailer and bulk
pack storage.
using
Obtaining Approvals for New Hydrogen Facilities

Depending on the province or territory, obtaining approvals for equipment designs, for building
modifications, and for operation of a new hydrogen system, will involve various authorities having
jurisdiction. Although Canada uses consistent model codes throughout its provinces/territories, each
province/territory has a unique set of regulations; thus, a number of different departments will be
required to approve different segments of an installation.
Admittedly, the approval process in some provinces is more stream-lined than that in others.
A new section that will address the electrical requirements of hydrogen fuelling stations with hydrogen generating,
compression and storage facilities has been drafted for possible incorporation into the next version of the Canadian
Electrical Code (specifically, Section 20: Flammable Liquid and Gas Dispensing and Service Stations, Garages, Bulk
Storage Plants, Finishing Processes and Aircraft Hangars).
Canada-Wide System
Registration of Pressure Vessels and Pressure Fittings

Canadian Registration Number
The Canadian regulation of pressure vessels and pressure fittings is coordinated among all the provinces
and territories. Pressure retaining components designed for greater than 103.4 kPa shall be registered
with a provincial boiler and pressure vessel safety authority prior to start of construction.
The Boiler, Pressure Vessel and Pressure Piping Code (CSA B51-03) governs the design, registration and
inspection of pressure vessels, related components and piping. The authority having jurisdiction (a designnated provincial/territorial government department) approves new vessel and component designs and
allocates a Canadian Registration Number (CRN). Not only does it cover boilers and pressure vessels, but
CRN also applies to pressure fittings such as valves, regulators, pressure transmitters, etc.
The CRN allocation is coordinated through a decimal point system with a unique identifier for the
different provinces and territories.
Additional CSA standards relate to the highway transport of dangerous goods such as compressed gases.
The common acceptance of similar designs for the highway transport of compressed gaseous hydrogen,
or cryogenically cooled liquid hydrogen, in both Canada and in the US, facilitates transport of hydrogen
across provincial borders and the international boundary.
Special Imported Pressure Fittings
It is strongly advised that the owner perform careful planning and provide clear specifications to the
supplier ahead of time. Even so, it will happen that special imported fittings are not registered in Canada.
In this event, a copy of any registration documents along with a notarized Statutory Declaration form may
be submitted to the appropriate authority having jurisdiction. The original manufacturer must take part
in the registration process because a declaration of conformance and a signature is required for a
complete submission.
Used Pressure Vessels
Used pressure vessels that have been previously registered and are then moved to a new location, do not
require further design registration unless they are to be subject to alteration. But the vessels will still
require inspection at the new location of installation before they are put into operation.
If the used pressure vessel has not been previously registered in the province of use, then it shall be
registered before completion of the installation inspection.
Best Practice Recommendations

A best practice is defined as, a technique or methodology that has reliably led to a desired result. Using
best practices is a commitment to utilizing available knowledge and technology to achieve success.* This
approach is successfully used by industry leaders in design and operation of safe and reliable hydrogen
facilities.
Risk Informed Design

Codes and standards provide an acceptable level of safety for hydrogen installations. When the existing
code or standard does not fully cover the intended design or application, or an intended facility deviates
from code requirements, risk-informed decision should use the results of quantitative risk analysis (QRA).
*
From the website, www.H2BestPractices.org, a US Department of Energy funded site.
Canada-Wide System
Consideration for other factors, in particular safety management and safety culture, will complement this
solely risk-based approach.
Broader in concept than just a QRA, risk-informed decision making will contribute towards the
maintenance and improvement of safety of hydrogen systems. It can help designers and operators to
assess risk and cost while strengthening the perception that they assume the primary responsibility for
safe operation. It also provides a quantitative means for communication among stakeholders. As an
important stakeholder, the general public can receive the results of risk informed decision making, if
necessary.
Personnel Training
Personnel who handle or use gaseous or liquefied hydrogen and who design equipment for hydrogen
systems must be familiar with hydrogens physical, chemical, and hazardous properties. In addition, the
following requirements should apply.
Personnel must know which materials are most compatible with hydrogen, what the cleanliness
requirements of hydrogen systems are, how to recognize system limitations, and how to respond to
failures. Designated operators shall be familiar with procedures for handling spills and with the actions to
be taken in case of fire.
Training should include detailed safety programs for recognizing human capabilities and limitations.
Personnel must constantly re-examine procedures and equipment to be sure safety has not been
compromised by changes in test methods, equipment deterioration, over-familiarity with the work, or
work-related stress.
Operation
Operational procedures, along with instrumentation and control systems, shall be evaluated for their
capacity to provide the required safety. It may be necessary to develop special procedures to counter
hazardous conditions. Analysis or certification testing should verify equipment performance and prove to
be satisfactory for the authority having jurisdiction
Standard operating procedures, with checklists as required, shall be developed for common operations.
The standard operating procedures should be set by individuals directly involved with the operation of the
hydrogen energy systems and shall be approved during the final safety review before starting up the
system. These procedures should be reviewed and updated periodically.
Repairs, alterations, cleaning, or other operations in confined spaces in which hydrogen vapours or gases
are likely to exist should not be permitted until a detailed safety procedure is established.
Emergency Response Planning

An emergency response plan is required because a facility must operate safely in routine and upset
conditions. The safety of personnel at and near hydrogen systems should be carefully reviewed, and
emergency procedures should be developed in the earliest planning and design stages. A variety of
events can be addressed to minimize risk of injury to personnel or to the public as well as damage to or
loss of property. The first priority is to reduce any risk to life.
Canada-Wide System
Development of the emergency procedures should be the responsibility of the manufacturer in the first
stage and should be reviewed and maintained thereafter by the user of the system.
Established in writing, it should cover the actions that employees must take on to ensure correct and
consistent performance. A scenario in which different individuals perform the operations differently
should be avoided because such variations increase the probability of accidents and reduce the system
reliability. To reduce ambiguity, staff should part of the developmental process.
The following elements, at a minimum, should be
included in an emergency response plan:
LIST OF POTENTIAL HYDROGEN-RELATED RISKS
>
Names and job titles of persons who can

offer further information or explanation
of duties under the emergency response
plan
Although the quantities of hydrogen involved as

well as the type or nature of the facility will vary,
consideration should be given to the following
types of events that may occur:
>
An emergency alarm system to alert

pers-onnel
Hydrogen leaks (controllable and uncontrollable

leaks)
>
Emergency
routes
Hydrogen fire
escape
procedures
and
Hydrogen explosion
>
Procedures for summoning outside assistance
>
Procedures for those who will remain on

site to operate critical plant facility or
system operation before they evacuate
Line rupture
>
Site security
Liquefied hydrogen spills
>
Appropriate fire suppression response
Combustible cloud migration
>
Procedures to account for all personnel

after an evacuation has been completed
Electrical fire
>
Rescue and medical duties for employees

who are qualified to perform them
>
Preferred means of reporting fires and

other emergencies (for possible media
coverage)
>
Identification of a command post with a pre-designated line of authority
>
Salvage and restoration operations
Excessive pressure
Hydrogen contamination (with an oxidizer or an

inert gas)
Failure of critical equipment

Inability to vent a cold gaseous or liquid hydrogen
system
10
IN THIS SECTION
British
Columbia
>
SUMMARY SHEETS for
Installation of Hydrogen Dispensing Systems
Installation of Stationary Fuel Cell Systems
Installation of Vehicular or Mobile Fuel Cell

Systems
Installation of Portable Fuel Cell Systems
Installation of On-Site Hydrogen Generation

Systems
>
The Specific Requirements per Each Authorities Having

Jurisdiction
>
Appendices
British Columbia
British Columbia
In British Columbia, the provincial Safety Standards Act, in particular, the Gas Safety Regulations of the
Act recognizes hydrogen for use in fuel cells and internal combustion engines. As a result, the Gas Safety
authorities are responsible for the regulation of applications that demonstrate hydrogen used as a fuel.
Not all of the authorities having jurisdiction (AHJ) within the province have developed programs to
evaluate hydrogen energy technologies. There may be a lack of codes and standards that are either still in
development, or are developed but not yet adopted by provincial legislature. However, contact should be
made with the authorities to seek advice and guidance since they continue to promote new technologies.
At the very least, the authorities will check for compliance with relevant safety codes and standards in
their respective areas of responsibilities.
How to Use This Section

If you are reading this section, chances are that you want to install a hydrogen energy system somewhere
in British Columbia.
1.
Read Introduction > Types of Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Installations. Once you know what kind
of installation you have, you can find a Summary Sheet that is relevant to your installation.
2.
In the Summary Sheets, you will find a short list of all the relevant authorities having jurisdiction,
all relevant codes, standards and regulations, and a short list of the actions you will need to
complete for each authority.
3.
For more information about the specific details of the requirements, you will find it all in the
subsequent section, The Specific Requirements per Each Authority Having Jurisdiction.
4.
Contact information for each authority is provided unless stated otherwise.
The reader is advised to also check the section, Canada-Wide System, to understand the national
requirements, which are common among all provinces and territories of Canada.
11
British Columbia
SUMMARY SHEET
Installation of Hydrogen Dispensing

Systems
Authorities Having Jurisdiction
Provincial
British Columbia Safety Authority (BCSA)
Boiler and Pressure Vessel Safety Program
Electrical Safety Program (If not covered by local government)
Gas Safety Program (If not covered by local government)
Municipal
Local Fire Departments
Local Governments (for Electrical Safety or Gas Safety or both)
Relevant Legislation
British Columbia Safety Standards Act
Power Engineers, Boiler, Pressure Vessel and Refrigeration Safety Regulation
Gas Safety Regulation
Electrical Safety Regulation
Relevant Codes, Standards, and Other Documents

CSA B51-03
CAN/BNQ 1784-000 (2007)
CSA C22.1 (2006)
IEC 60079-10
Other
Boiler, Pressure Vessel, and Pressure Piping Code

and B51S1-05 (Supplement #1)
Canadian Hydrogen Installation Code (Until the CHIC is adopted in BC, a
good practice is voluntary conformance to the requirements of this code)
Canadian Electrical Code Part 1 (Electrical Installation Code)
Electrical Apparatus for Explosive Gas Atmospheres - Part 10: Classification
of Hazardous Areas
Interim Hydrogen Refuelling Station Safety Standard for the Hydrogen
Highway
This document was prepared to meet the needs of the British Columbia Hydrogen Highway as an interim measure
until the CHIC was published. For copies, contact Hydrogen & Fuel Cells Canada (www.H2FCC.ca)
12
British Columbia
SUMMARY SHEET
What Are The Required Approvals?

1.
The full assembly of all electrical components must bear certification marks from an accredited
certification body that is recognized by the electrical authority.
2.
Approval of the local Fire Department in which the hydrogen dispensing system will be installed.
The Fire Department is responsible for approving the site and the clearances for the installation.
In case some technical requirements need to be clarified, this approval can be obtained as a
conditional approval pending any later approval from the British Columbia Safety Authority.
3.
Pressure vessels, piping and fittings require registration from the Boiler and Pressure Vessel
Safety Program of the British Columbia Safety Authority (BCSA). The pressure retaining
components for which the Boiler and Pressure Vessel Program has jurisdiction, and for which
design registration is required, are defined in the Interim Hydrogen Refuelling Station Safety
Standard for the Hydrogen Highway*.
4.
Approval in Principle from the BCSA Gas Safety Program for the proposed design of the
hydrogen refuelling system.
5.
Satisfactory site inspection of the installed pressure vessels by a BCSA Pressure Vessel Safety
Officer as well as the same for the complete fuelling station by a BCSA Gas Safety Officer.
6.
Any electrical system will require an installation approval from the BCSA Electrical Safety
Program.
7.
Satisfactory site inspection of the installed electrical assembly by a BCSA Field Safety
Representative.
To avoid confusion and delays in processing, requests for approval will be submitted in the above order.
At each successive stage proof of approval from the previous stage will be supplied.
For more information about the specific details of the requirements, see section, The Specific
Requirements per Each Authority Having Jurisdiction, starting on page 22.
until the CHIC was published. For copies, contact Hydrogen & Fuel Cells Canada (www.H2FCC.ca).
In ten jurisdictions of the province, gas safety and electrical safety regulations are administered by local government
and not the BCSA. For a list of the jurisdictions, see Table 2.
13
British Columbia
SUMMARY SHEET
Installation of Stationary Fuel Cell

Systems
Provincial
Municipal
Other
BC Hydro
British Columbia Safety Standards Act

ANSI/CSA America FC1 (2004)
CSA B51-03
CSA C22.1 (2006)
CSA C22.3
IEC 60079-10
Other
Stationary Fuel Cell Power Systems

Canadian Electrical Code Part 3 (Electricity Distribution and
Transmission Systems)
Electrical Apparatus for Explosive Gas Atmospheres - Part 10:
Classification of Hazardous Areas
35 kV and Below Interconnection Requirements for Power
Generators
Visit the BC Hydro website to download a free copy
14
British Columbia
SUMMARY SHEET

1.
If the installation is connected to the utility grid, approval from BC Hydro is required.
2.
3.
Approval of the local Fire Department in which the stationary hydrogen fuel cell, its storage
equipment, and associated piping assembly will be installed. The Fire Department is responsible
for approving the site and the clearances for the installation. In case some technical
requirements need to be clarified, this approval can be obtained as a conditional approval
pending any later approval from the British Columbia Safety Authority.
4.
Any pressure vessels, pressure piping and fittings require registration from the Boiler and
Pressure Vessel Safety Program of the British Columbia Safety Authority (BCSA). The pressure
retaining components for which the Boiler and Pressure Vessel Program has jurisdiction, and for
which design registration is required, are defined in the Interim Hydrogen Refuelling Station
Safety Standard for the Hydrogen Highway.
5.
Approval in Principle from the BCSA Gas Safety Program for the proposed design of the overall
hydrogen system.
6.
Satisfactory site inspection of the installed pressure vessels by a BCSA Boiler Safety Officer as well
as the same for the complete system by a BCSA Gas Safety Officer.
7.
The installation will require an approval from the BCSA Electrical Safety Program.
8.
Representative.
15
British Columbia
Installation of Vehicular or Mobile Hydrogen Systems
SUMMARY SHEET
Installation of Vehicular Hydrogen

Systems
Provincial
Ministry of Transportation
Commercial Vehicle Safety and Enforcement Division
Municipal
Local Governments (for Gas Safety)
British Columbia Safety Act
British Columbia Motor Vehicle Safety Act and Regulations
Transport of Dangerous Goods Act (of Canada) and Regulations

ISO 23273:2006
SAE J 2578 (2008)
SAE J 1766 (2005)
CSA B51-03
CSA B620-03
CSA B340-02
Fuel Cell Road Vehicles - Safety Specifications - Parts 1, 2, 3

Recommended Practice for General Fuel Cell Vehicle Safety
Recommended Practice for Electric and Hybrid Electric Vehicle Battery Systems
Crash Integrity Testing
Boiler, Pressure Vessel, and Pressure Piping Code and B51S1-05 (Supplement #1)
Highway Tanks and Portable Tanks for the Transportation of Dangerous Goods
Selection and Use of Cylinders, Spheres, Tubes, and Other Containers for the
Transportation of Dangerous Goods, Class 2
16
British Columbia
Installation of Vehicular or Mobile Hydrogen Systems
SUMMARY SHEET

As products built by original equipment manufacturers, vehicles should arrive with full approval from
Transport Canada, which means they are exempt from some of the following requirements. However,
at this point, Transport Canada has not adopted a code or standard for hydrogen-fuelled vehicles. At
the very least, the following requirements may apply for any or all of the following: the on-board
compressed hydrogen storage, hydrogen fuel handling equipment, piping assembly, vent line, fuel cell,
refuelling interface, and the maintenance or parking facilities.
1.
Approval of the BC Ministry of Transportation Commercial Vehicle Safety and Enforcement

Division is required for the overall safety of hydrogen fuelled vehicle and its operations if the
vehicle is intended for use as a motor carrier.
2.
Approval in principle from the BCSA Gas Safety Program for the proposed design of the
vehicular fuel system.
3.
Registration of pressure vessels for the on-board storage of the high pressure hydrogen. The
pressure retaining components for which the BCSA Boiler and Pressure Vessel Program has
jurisdiction, and for which design registration is required, are defined in CSA B51 Part 2.
4.
Satisfactory site inspection of the installed fuel systems by a BCSA Gas Safety Officer.
5.
Approval of the local Fire Department for the acceptability of a parking or maintenance facility to
accommodate hydrogen-fuelled vehicles.
17
British Columbia
SUMMARY SHEET

Provincial
British Columbia Safety Authority
Municipal

CSA C22.1 (2006)
CAN/BNQ 1784-000 (2007)
CSA TIL R-18
CSA B51-03

Interim Certification Requirements Portable Fuel Cell Power Systems
18
British Columbia
SUMMARY SHEET

Due to possible reduced sizes of portable fuel cells (as appliances), the British Columbia Safety
Standards Act and its technical Regulations (for pressure vessels, gas, and electrical) should be
consulted for applicability and determination of whether the following approvals are required or not.
This point is especially important if there have been updates to the Safety Standards Act since the time
of writing this Guide. In the event that the appliance is of a certain size or has a certain parameter such
that one or all of the Regulations apply, the following steps shall apply.
1.
The fuel cell package must bear product certification marks from an accredited certification body
that is recognized by the electrical authority.
2.
If not already completed by the manufacturer, then registration of pressure vessels and the
pressure retaining components is required. The BCSA Boilers and Pressure Vessels Program has
jurisdiction for pressure vessels and pressure piping.
3.
Approval in Principle from the BCSA Gas Safety Program for the proposed design of the portable
fuel cell system is applicable when the system becomes a fixed installation.
19
British Columbia
Installation of On-Site Hydrogen Generation Systems
SUMMARY SHEET
Installation of On-Site Hydrogen

Generation Systems
Provincial
Electrical Safety Program
Gas Safety Program
Municipal

CAN/BNQ 1784-000 (2007)
CSA B51-03
CSA C22.1 (2006)
IEC 60079-10

Electrical Apparatus for Explosive Gas Atmospheres - Part 10: Classification
of Hazardous Areas
20
British Columbia
Installation of On-Site Hydrogen Generation Systems
SUMMARY SHEET

1.
2.
Approval of the local Fire Department in which the hydrogen generating system will be installed.
The Fire Department is responsible for approving the site and the clearances for the installation.
In case some technical requirements need to be clarified, this approval can be obtained as a
conditional approval pending any later approval from the British Columbia Safety Authority.
3.
Pressure vessels, piping and fittings require registration from the Boiler and Pressure Vessel
Safety Program of the British Columbia Safety Authority (BCSA). The pressure retaining
components for which the Boiler and Pressure Vessel Program has jurisdiction, and for which
design registration is required, are defined in the Interim Hydrogen Refuelling Station Safety
Standard for the Hydrogen Highway *.
4.
Approval in Principle from the BCSA Gas Safety Program for the proposed design of the
hydrogen generating system, only in cases when hydrogen will be used as a fuel.
5.
Satisfactory site inspection of the installed pressure vessels by a BCSA Pressure Vessel Safety
Officer as well as the same for the complete fuelling station by a BCSA Gas Safety Officer.
6.
Any electrical system may require an installation approval from the BCSA Electrical Safety
Program.
7.
Representative.
21
British Columbia
The Specific Requirements for Approval
The Specific Requirements per Each

Authority Having Jurisdiction
General Requirements
The submission of all required documentation, for the registration of a hydrogen energy system shall be
co-ordinated by the owner of the facility or a designated agent so that the registration submission is a
complete package.
Owners of hydrogen energy systems must be aware that after an approved installation has been
completed, new development to the surrounding area may require the revaluation of the installation by
the approving authorities and, accordingly, modifications to the installation may be required to improve
safety and enhance emergency response procedures.
The authorities having jurisdiction are presented in alphabetical order.
BC Hydro is British Columbias larger power provider, with

its primary business activities in generation and distribution
of electricity. Among many other services, BC Hydro also
offers interconnection services to connect power
generators (or independent power producers) to BC
Hydros distribution network.
Electricity Generator Interconnection
CONTACT INFO
BC Hydro (Electrical Utility)

Generator Interconnection and
Transmission Services
BC Hydro
333 Dunsmuir Street, 10th floor
Vancouver, BC V6B 5R3
Tel: 604 623-4138 or 604 623-3755
gen.connections@bchydro.com
www.bchydro.com
For power generators or independent power producers

(IPP) that need to be connected to the BC Hydros electricity grid, BC Hydro offers an interconnection
service to connect the power generator to their Distribution Network (up to 35 kV). BC Hydro will assist
the determination of the most appropriate interconnection, which will depend on the site location and
proposed power output of the generator. Each interconnection request is reviewed for technical
compatibility to ensure that the proposed generator is able to be connected and to assess the impact of
the proposed generator on BC Hydro's systems and facilities.
A licensed professional engineer (licensed in British Columbia) must declare that the power generators
facility has been designed, constructed and tested in accordance with the requirements stated in the
document, 35 kV and Below Interconnection Requirements for Power Generators, project specific
requirements as stated by BC Hydro, and prudent utility practice. The document is available on BC
Hydros website (www.bchydro.com).
The process generally includes these four steps:
1.
Determine the technical and economic feasibility of the interconnection
2.
Secure all necessary service agreements with BC Hydro
3.
Define the project interconnection requirements and sign an Interconnection Agreement.
22
British Columbia
4.
Implement the connection, including construction and final commissioning of the connection to
BC Hydro's Distribution Network.
Detailed information and forms are listed in Appendix BC1.
The British Columbia Safety Authority (BCSA) is an

independent, self-funded corporation that provides costeffective and essential safety services to business, industry
and the general public throughout the province. It is
responsible for overseeing the safety of several industrial
sectors.
CONTACT INFO

Suite 400, 88 6th Street
New Westminster, BC V3L 5B3
Tel: 1-866-566-SAFE (7233)
info@safetyauthority.ca
www.safetyauthority.ca
Some of departmental divisions of the BCSA that are

relevant to hydrogen are listed below.
BCSA Boilers & Pressure Vessels

The Boiler and Pressure Vessel Safety Program regulates pressure vessels and pressure piping. Whenever
hydrogen is stored or used in industrial processing and production applications, the pressure vessel and
piping standards adopted under the Power Engineers, Boiler, Pressure Vessel and Refrigeration Safety
Regulation (PEBPVRSR) apply. BCSA is the only authority across the province that administers the
PEBPVRSR.
Registration of Pressure Vessels, Pressure Piping, and Pressure Fittings
All pressure vessels, pressure piping, and pressure fittings require design registration and inspection at the
location of installation before being put into operation in British Columbia. The project owner should
ensure that the following steps are completed as part of a full BCSA design application.
Pressure Vessels
The project owner shall submit drawings and calculations to BCSAs Engineering and Standards
department to demonstrate that any pressure vessel in the planned design conforms to CSA B51 or other
equivalent standards as defined by that Code. The submission for registration will be reviewed to verify
that all applicable code requirements have been considered in the design and calculations. Upon
satisfactory review, the vessel design shall be assigned a Canadian Registration Number (CRN). A stamped
design registration letter indicating the CRN, date of registration, manufacturers name, description of the
vessel, drawing numbers, registration fee and any other pertinent information will be sent to the
applicant. The submitted documents will not be stamped or returned to the applicant.
A completed BCSA Application for CRN shall be submitted (see Appendix BC2).
Pressure Piping
Schematic drawings of pressure piping will be submitted as required by Power Engineers Boilers Pressure
Vessel and Refrigeration Safety Regulations. The design, installation and testing of pressure piping
systems shall be in accordance with CSA B51-03.
Something worth noting is that the following piping systems do not require registration:
1.
A pressure piping system, with a relief valve or set of valves, operating at 103 kPa or less
23
British Columbia
2.
Pressure piping that is nominal pipe size (NPS) 3 or less
The following documentation is required in order to register a piping system:

1.
A completed British Columbia CRN application form (see Appendix BC2)
2.
Design data such as code of design, material specifications, pressure and temperature ratings,
CRNs for individual components and fittings.
3.
Process and instrumentation diagrams (P & ID) or schematic drawings showing the specific lines
to be registered, diameters of piping, line lists and approximate lengths of the piping system
4.
Code calculations for expansion, flexibility and supports in the system

Pressure Fittings
A list of fittings to be used in the pressure system will be submitted to the BCSAs Engineering and
Standards department. Proof of registration of pressure retaining fittings, or other documentation
required by the BCSA circulars, will be submitted to the BCSA inspection department.
Starting May 1, 2007, some fittings that were previously required for registration will no longer need CRNs
in British Columbia:
Table 1. List of fitting types that no longer require CRN in British Columbia.
FITTING
CATEGORY
A
B
C
G
DESCRIPTION
Pipe fittings, including couplings, tees, elbows, wyes, plugs, unions, nipples, pipe caps, and
reducers
All flanges
All line valves
Certified capacity-rated pressure-relief devices acceptable as primary overpressure protection
on boilers, pressure vessels and pressure piping, and fusible plugs.
In case all or some fittings of a pressure piping system have not been previously registered,
documentation for their registration shall be submitted to the BCSAs Engineering and Standards
department:
1.
A completed British Columbia CRN application form (see Appendix BC2)
2.
A completed Statutory Declaration form.
3.
Design data such as code of design, material specifications, pressure and temperature ratings,
CRNs for individual components and fittings.
4.
Documentation from a regulatory authority or authorized inspection agency verifying that the
manufacturers quality control program conforms to the minimum requirements of CSA B51
Annex F.
5.
Proof of registration from original province of registration if the fitting has been previously
registered.
Submissions for fittings conforming to a standard other than the ASME Boiler, Pressure Vessel or Piping
Codes, may require a copy of the applicable code or standard. If the document is written in a language
different from English, a translation to English will need to be submitted as well. The code or standard
must detail requirements for materials, dimensions, pressure and temperature ratings, and markings.
Detailed calculations or proof tests results, witnessed by an authorized inspector, may be required to
demonstrate that the fitting design is suitable for the pressure and temperature ratings. The fittings shall
24
British Columbia
be registered in a category listed in CSA B51 Table 1. Fittings of the same category may be registered
collectively. Separate registration of each fitting design in a category is not required.
Registration of fittings, as described, means the acceptability of the fitting at its pressure retaining
capability. If there is a functional element assuring the regulation of the gas flow in a safe manner,
additional approval from the BCSA Gas Safety Program is required.
Inspections
Following the registration acceptance of the pressure vessel and piping design, the installation, including
any vessels and piping assembly, shall be inspected for compliance with the Power Engineers, Boiler,
Pressure Vessel and Refrigeration Safety Regulation. The inspection will be performed by a Safety Officer.
BCSA Electrical Safety

The Electrical Safety Program is responsible for regulating electrical safety in the province, including all
types of electrical equipment and installations. This includes inspecting commercial, industrial and
residential sites. Inspections are performed in accordance with the Safety Standard Act and Electrical
Safety Regulations of British Columbia. BCSA is not the only authority in the province that can administer
the Electrical Safety Regulation (see section, Local Governments, on page 30).
In this province, the Canadian Electrical Code (CSA C22.1-2006) is adopted in whole as the BC Electrical
Code.
The reader should note that all electrical equipment must be tested and certified, thus bearing the labels
of a certification agency that is recognized in British Columbia.
Electrical Product Certification Requirements*
Electrical equipment cannot be used, offered for sale, displayed, or otherwise disposed of in British
Columbia, unless the electrical equipment displays a label or mark as follows:
>
a certification mark;
>
a label or mark of a certification agency that is acceptable to the appropriate provincial safety
manager to certify electrical equipment for a specific installation.
A partial list of recognized marks is available in Appendix BC3.

A Note about BCSA Equipment Acceptance Program (Special Evaluations)
Some readers may be aware of the Electrical Safety departments Equipment Acceptance Program, which
are special evaluations for uncertified equipment. British Columbia uses the Model Code SPE-1000 to
perform field evaluations. Unfortunately, SPE-1000 does not apply to equipment for use in hazardous
locations (For more on Hazardous Locations see below). This fact excludes hydrogen systems from this
special inspection service. Therefore, the route to a BCSA electrical approval is to first ensure that all
electrical/electronic equipment, including the full assembly as one piece, receives certification followed
by a request for BCSAs inspection services.
This Guide does not explain the product certification process. It intends to describe the permitting process and
assumes that the owner has already obtained a label from any one of the recognized certification bodies.
25
British Columbia
Hazardous (Classified) Locations

An installation of a hydrogen energy system undoubtedly creates a hazardous location where risk of fire
or explosion may exist due to the flammable properties of hydrogen.
The owner shall determine the area classification of the installation. In fact, IEC Standard 60079-10 is
recommended by the Canadian Hydrogen Installation Code for calculation of area classification.
BCSA Gas Safety

The Gas Safety Program is responsible for regulating distribution, manufacture, or dilution of various fuel
gases, including hydrogen. To avoid confusion with the scope of work of the Boiler & Pressure Vessels, the
Gas Safety Regulation covers installations where hydrogen will be generated, stored or used as a fuel for
fuel cells, and their associated support systems, or for combustion equipment, such as, internal
combustion engines. BCSA is not the only authority in the province that can administer the Gas Safety
Regulation (see section, Local Governments, on page 30).
Approval in Principle for a Hydrogen Energy System
Specifications, drawings and details demonstrating that the installation complies with the technical
requirements contained in the Interim Hydrogen Refuelling Station Safety Standard for the Hydrogen
Highway (HHG)* or the Canadian Hydrogen Installation Code (CHIC), shall be submitted to the
Engineering and Standards department.
Reviews of the final drawings, designs, structures, and containment systems shall include a safety
assessment to identify potential system hazards and areas of compliance required by local and provincial
agencies.
Inspections
After Approval in Principle is granted for the hydrogen system design, its installation shall be inspected by
a Safety Officer for compliance with the Gas Safety Regulation as well as with the requirements in the
HHG or the CHIC, as applicable, before the installation is placed into service.
Installation Permit
A valid Installation Permit issued by the BCSA must be applied for before the start of construction. A
licensed gas contractor who installs the installation shall be responsible for this application.
Operating Permit
Hydrogen systems must have a valid operating permit. The owner, or a designated agent, shall apply for
the permit.
Operator Training
Operators shall be adequately trained and certified prior to operations. Training courses and
examinations must be acceptable to the BCSAs Engineering and Standards department.
Until the Canadian Hydrogen Installation Code is adopted, a good practice is voluntary conformance to the
requirements of the CHIC.
26
British Columbia
Operator certification, specifically for hydrogen fuel installations, is an aspect that is not fully worked out
as this is a new and quite narrow area of expertise. The project owner should check with BCSA prior to
the start of the hydrogen project.
Records Keeping
Project owners and operators are required to keep the following records for a minimum of seven years.
1.
Records of all mandatory and periodical maintenance items required as per the HHG or the
CHIC.
2.
Records of all repairs and unscheduled maintenance work that became necessary during the
operation of the hydrogen installation.
3.
Records of all and any accident and incident relative to the installed equipment if caused by
operators or users of the equipment.
4.
Any damage to equipment installed in the station
5.
Any leak of hydrogen
6.
Any equipment malfunction
7.
Any other unusual or unexpected event
At the request of a Safety Officer, the records have to be presented. Records will need to be kept in a
tamper-safe manner.
Vehicle Decals
Following the acceptance in principle of design of a hydrogen fuelled-vehicle, the storage vessel, fuel
piping, venting, the control system and the overall assembly shall be inspected by a Safety Officer. As
proof of approval, the Gas Safety Program will affix a decal to the fuel system of the vehicle.
Please note that additional inspections are required by an approved Motor Vehicle Inspection Facility.
See section, Ministry of Transportation > Commercial Vehicle Safety and Enforcement Program, on
page 30.
Until the Canadian Hydrogen Installation Code (CHIC) is adopted, a good practice is voluntary conformance to the
requirements of CHIC.
27
British Columbia
Fire Departments
Local fire departments are responsible for approving site and clearance distances for installations involving
hydrogen. Among a variety of services, local fire services will respond to fires, rescues, and medical and
hazardous-material emergencies.
Office of the Fire Commissioner

The Office of the Fire Commissioner is the senior fire
authority in the province with respect to fire safety and
prevention. It supports local fire departments by defining
operational guidelines that provide for fire fighter safety
and risk management objectives. The Fire Commissioner
administers the Fire Services Act and the British Columbia
Fire Code, which is the National Fire Code of Canada 2005.
CONTACT INFO
CONTACT INFO for all municipal fire departments is not

listed here; the reader is advised to contact local fire
stations.
Office of the Fire Commissioner

Victoria (OFC Headquarters Office)
Suite 200, 645 Tyee Road
Victoria, BC V9A 6X5
Mailing Address:
PO Box 9491 Stn. Prov. Govt.
Victoria, BC V8W 9N7
Tel: 1-888-988-9488 (24-hr)
OFC@gov.bc.ca
www.pssg.gov.bc.ca/firecom
As a minimum, the following documentation and information will be submitted to the local fire
department in support of an application for approval.
Site Plans
A site plan shall be submitted showing the location of hydrogen storage, piping assemblies, venting
points, and any dispensing equipment. Clearances to all roadways and surrounding structures in the
vicinity of the installation will also need identification.
Population densities will be taken into account as per the Class Location (see below).
The relationship between hydrogen quantities and clearance distances is based on the concept that the
effects of fire, explosion, and detonation are dependent on the amount of material stored on site. Tests,
analyses, and experience are employed to determine that relationship and, subsequently, the safe
distances. These distances are based entirely on the estimated damage that could result from an incident,
without considering probabilities or frequency of occurrence. The effects of an accidental release of
hydrogen and the resulting consequences can be controlled to a tolerable level by adopting reasonable
clearances to people and facilities.
Class Locations
Class locations shall be determined by applying the criteria set forth. An area shall be enclosed by a line
that extends 100 meters from any external surface of a hydrogen container within the facility. The class
location is determined by the population density within this perimeter; each unit in a multiple unit
building will be considered a separate unit. The population density of a dwelling unit will be calculated as
three (3) people per dwelling. A population density of 100 percent of the licensed occupancy will be
assumed for hotels, motels, and restaurants. Only the population contained in the portion of the building
included within the prescribed perimeter will be considered.
Class locations are defined as per Appendix BC4.
In unincorporated areas or where there is no fire department, the zoning shall be determined by the BCSA
Safety Officer.
28
British Columbia
Resolution of Disagreement
If agreement is not reached between the project owner and the fire department, final arbitration will lie
with the BCSA Safety Officer. As a minimum, the documentation required for such arbitration will be an
ordinance map provided by the municipality for which the approval is being requested.
Parking Hydrogen-Fuelled Vehicles
For the acceptability of parking hydrogen-fuelled vehicles in enclosed garages, approval is required from
the municipal fire department that has jurisdiction in the area where the parking facility is located.
The authorities having jurisdiction (AHJ) for parking garages used by hydrogen-fuelled vehicles in British
Columbia are the BCSA and the local Fire Chiefs office.
At this point there is no recognized code, directive or even criteria for the approval of a facility for parking
hydrogen-fuelled vehicles. Parking garages, underground parking, or any other facility are approved on an
individual basis by the two identified AHJs based on the following information:
>
Size and type of vehicle
>
Safety systems installed on the vehicle
>
Presence of an alarm in the safety system, its response mode and response time
>
Location of the parking facility with consideration for population density, building occupancy
type, public assembly areas in the vicinity, etc.
>
Type of parking facility (public/private, other types vehicles in the proximity, density of vehicles
in the parking area)
>
Ventilation of the parking facility
Following a submission of this type of information, an approval for enclosed parking will be considered. It
is expected that expertise for addressing various situations will result from such case-by-case approvals,
allowing for issuance of a Directive.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Attempts to apply the results from, Support Facilities for Hydrogen Fuelled Vehicles: Conceptual Design
and Cost Analysis Study*, commissioned by the California Fuel Cells Partnership, were made. However,
upon comparative review of the mechanical ventilation design requirements for parking garages, it was
revealed that the ventilation rates within parking garages in British Columbia are twice as low as those in
California. Also, the study did not examine hydrogen leakage scenarios under no mechanical ventilation
conditions, which, as operating practice shows, are present about 50 percent of the time.
A limited number of parking garages in the City of Vancouver were approved for the parking of hydrogen
fuel cell vehicles following the results of CFD Modelling of Hydrogen Releases from a Fuel Cell Vehicle and
Hydrogen Dispersion inside Underground Public Garages, which was commissioned by Hydrogen & Fuel
Cells Canada. This study investigated scenarios of hydrogen releases from a Ford Focus FCV tail pipe while
taking into account the safety criteria developed by SAE International. Potential flammable hazards
*
Parson Brinckerhoff, July 2004

A. V. Tchouvelev & Associates, March 2006
SAE J2578: Development of Safety Criteria for Potentially Flammable Discharges from Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicles
29
British Columbia
under full mechanical ventilation and no mechanical ventilation were considered. As a result, a few
parkades that are covered garages, with two or more sides are open to air, are presently approved.
No general requirements were derived from the above study.
Local Governments
Ten jurisdictions in the province administer the Electrical Safety Regulation, the Gas Safety Regulation, or
both. For all jurisdictions, other than those identified in Table 2, BCSA is delegated to administer the
Regulations for either electrical or gas safety or both.
CONTACT INFO for all local governments is not listed here; the reader is advised to contact the relevant
municipal office.
Table 2. List of ten local governments in British Columbia that administer certain sections of the BC Safety
Standards Act.
LOCAL GOVERNMENT
ELECTRICAL SAFETY
REGULATION
GAS SAFETY
REGULATION

City of Burnaby
City of Kelowna
The Corporation of the District of Maple Ridge
The Corporation of the City of North Vancouver
The Corporation of the District of North Vancouver
City of Richmond
The Corporation of the City of Surrey
City of Vancouver
City of Victoria
The Corporation of the District of West Vancouver

Ministry of Transportation
Commercial Vehicle Safety and Enforcement Division (CVSE)
CONTACT INFO
The Ministry of Transportation Commercial Vehicle Safety

Commercial Vehicle Safety and
and Enforcement Program (CVSE) is a provincial
Enforcement (CVSE)
government agency that manages several commercial and
British Columbia Ministry of
private vehicle programs in British Columbia. Its activities
Transportation
cover motor carrier administration, vehicle inspections, and
PO Box 9250 STN PROV GOVT
transportation of dangerous goods, among others. The
Victoria, BC V8W 9J2
CVSE also seeks compliance with safety standards and
Tel: 250-953-4025
National Safety Codes of Canada. It also liaises with other
www.th.gov.bc.ca/cvse
local and federal government agencies such as the
Insurance Corporation of British Columbia. The programs
website offers (for sale) the Vehicle Inspection Manual
(Standards of Safety and Repair) as well as a list of approved inspection facilities. Other provincial
jurisdictions in Canada, and even some jurisdictions outside of Canada, recognize the vehicles that are
30
British Columbia
inspected in BC. The CVSE's head office is located in Victoria and its programs are delivered through
district field offices throughout the province.
Since the current federal Motor Vehicle Safety Act and its Regulations (administered by Transport Canada)
do not address hydrogen fuel systems, owners of all vehicles that use hydrogen as a motive fuel must
contact the Commercial Vehicle Safety and Enforcement Division (CVSE) for information regarding
compliance with applicable vehicle safety and inspection standards.
The project owner shall submit, to the CVSE, full documentation of the specifications of the installed
hydrogen fuel system of the vehicle. The fuel management, combustion, venting, and related
components on the system will require separate approval from the BCSA Gas Safety Equipment Approval
program.
Since the use of hydrogen as motive fuel in BC is relative new and the existing BC Motor Vehicle Act and
its Regulations are in the process of revision to cover this topic, the reader is advised to contact a Senior
Vehicle Engineer at CVSE for more information.
31
British Columbia
Appendices
Appendices
Appendix BC1
Electricity Generator Interconnection - Useful Documents
The following table is a snap shot of the available documents on
the BC Hydro website, specifically addressing the independent
power producers (as of March 7, 2008).
The link to the site is provided here:
http://www.bchydro.com/info/ipp/ipp992.html
In the event that the page address is no longer valid, the reader
should search for keywords, independent power producer
through the BC Hydro search engine.
General Info
Interconnections Guidelines for 35 kV and below [PDF, 78 Kb]

Process Flowchart Without transmission impact [PDF, 20 Kb]
Process Flowchart With transmission impact [PDF, 19 Kb]
Costs and Timelines [PDF, 16 Kb]
Frequently Asked Questions [PDF, 48 Kb]
Interconnection Agreement Summary [PDF, 51 Kb]
Facilities Letter Summary [PDF, 46 Kb]
Bioenergy RFP Phase I
Application - Generator Interconnection Equipment Statement [MS Excel, 584 Kb]
Forms & Applications
Generator Equipment Statement [MS Excel, 47 Kb]

Service Entrance Equipment Statement (70340) [MS Excel, 45 Kb]
Application Service Voltage 4 kV to 35 kV [MS Excel, 41 Kb]
Application Service Voltage 120 V to 600 V [MS Word, 41 Kb]
Interconnection Requirements
Distribution Interconnection Requirements [PDF, 843 Kb]

Distribution Power Generator Islanding [PDF, 178 Kb]
Interconnection Study Agreement [PDF, 15 Kb]
Standard Interconnection Agreement (Distribution) [PDF, 62 Kb]
Transmission Interconnection Requirements [link to BCTC site]
32
British Columbia
Appendices
Appendix BC2
Example of BCSA Design Registration Form
33
British Columbia
Appendices
Appendix BC3
BCSA Approved Certification Marks for Electrical Products
The following are a few examples of BCSA recognized certification marks.
To see the rest, the reader is advised to visit BCSAs website (www.safetyauthority.com) and seek their
Information Bulletin No. B-E3 071019 3 from October 19, 2007.
34
British Columbia
Appendices
Appendix BC4
Class Locations
Class 1 Industrial Parks and Open Areas
A Class 1 location is any area that includes in the 100 m location perimeter a maximum of 10 buildings or
dwelling units and is not inhabited by more than 30 people, or maximum 100 people if they are not in
dwelling units.
Class 2 Low Population Density
A Class 2 location is any area that contains within the 100 m location perimeter more than 10 and less
than 20 buildings, with a maximum of 60 people inhabiting the area, or more than 100 but less than 150
people located in non-dwelling areas.
Typically such locations would contain industrial, commercial and some residential buildings.
Class 3 Medium Population Density
A Class 3 location is any area that contains within the 100 m location perimeter more than 20 and less
than 50 buildings, with a maximum of 150 people inhabiting the area, or more than 150 but less than 300
people located in non-dwelling areas.
Typically such locations would contain light industrial, commercial, and some residential buildings,
townhouses.
Class 4 Heavy Population Density
A Class 4 location is any area that contains within the 100 m location perimeter more than 50 buildings, or
more than 150 but less than 300 people located in non-dwelling areas.
Typically such locations would contain high-rises, offices, and hotels.
A.L.R.T. and Bridge Clearances
Hydrogen containers shall not be installed within 45.72 m of the A.L.R.T. (advanced light rapid transit)
track bridge or any similar structure used to transport or travelled by public at large.
Table 3. Maximum Quantities of Hydrogen Stored on Site
LOCATION CLASSIFICATION
CLASS 1
CLASS 2
CLASS 3
CLASS 4
Quantity permitted for storage on site
20 000 USWG
15 000 USWG
10 000 USWG
7 000 USWG
Special consideration will be required for the storage of additional quantities.

When classifying locations, due consideration shall be given to the development plans for the area. If a
building permit has been issued for the location area, such development shall be given consideration in
the design and classification of the installation.
35
IN THIS SECTION
Ontario
>
SUMMARY SHEETS for

Systems

Systems
>

Jurisdiction
>
Appendices
Ontario
Ontario
In Ontario, the Technical Standards and Safety Act recognizes hydrogen as a fuel. A provincial authority,
the Technical Standards and Safety Authority, has developed a program to evaluate and inspect hydrogenenergy systems.
Other authorities having jurisdiction (AHJ) within Ontario do not have developed programs for hydrogen
installations per se, but they will actively engage in hydrogen installation approval processes in an effort
to promote new technologies. At the very least, these other authorities will still check for compliance
with relevant codes and standards.
There are many AHJs in Ontario. Each will be relevant on a particular aspect of a complete installation
and each will address various potential hazards of hydrogen and fuel cell systems.

in Ontario.
1.
2.
3.
4.
36
Ontario
Hydrogen Dispensing Systems
SUMMARY SHEET

Systems
Provincial
Technical Standards and Safety Authority
Fuels Safety Program
Electrical Safety Authority
Ministry of Environment
Ministry of Labour
Municipal
Local Building and Planning Department
Local Fire Department
Technical Safety Standards Act
Gaseous Fuels Regulation (Ontario Regulation 212/01)
Industry Certificate Regulation (Ontario Regulation 215/01)
Electricity Act
Fire Protection and Prevention Act
Environmental Assessment Act
Occupational Health and Safety Act

CAN/BNQ 1784 (2007)
CSA B51-03
CSA C22.1
IEC 60079-10
Other
Canadian Hydrogen Installation Code

Electrical Apparatus for explosive gas atmospheres Part 10: Classification of
Hazardous Areas
Ontario Building Code
Ontario Electrical Safety Code*
Ontario Fire Code
In Ontario, the Canadian Electrical Code (CSA C22.1) is adopted with specific Ontario amendments and is referred to
the Ontario Electrical Safety Code (OESC).
37
Ontario
SUMMARY SHEET
What are the Required Approvals?

1.
certification body that is recognized by the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA).
2.
If plans for the installation of a hydrogen dispensing system impact building structures or zoning
by-laws, the building owner or a designate shall ensure that municipal building permits from local
Building and Planning Departments are obtained, if applicable.
3.
Municipal Fire Department safety officers are authorized to conduct fire inspections during any
phase of a project. The project owner is encouraged to contact local fire departments as early as
possible to initiate fire safety and fire prevention planning under the guidance of local fire safety
officers.
4.
All appropriate personnel shall obtain a H2 Certificate from the Technical Standards and Safety
Authority (TSSA) before construction begins.
5.
The TSSA is responsible for the approval of any installation wherein hydrogen is used as a fuel.
More specifically, TSSA's Fuels Safety Program will offer approval in principle after an evaluation
of the design of the hydrogen dispensing system.
6.
A Certificate of Inspection will need to be obtained after a satisfactory site inspection of the
installed hydrogen vessels and hydrogen piping assembly by a TSSA Fuels Safety inspector.
7.
The ESA, which enforces electrical safety, will issue a Certificate of Inspection after a satisfactory
site inspection of the electrical installation.
8.
The Ontario Ministry of Labour requires the following:

>
Notice of Project form
>
Registration of Constructors and Employers Engaged in Construction form
>
Pre-Start Health and Safety Review Report
Ministry inspectors are authorized to conduct health and safety inspections during any phase of a
project without a warrant. The inspector may require the production of any drawings,
specifications, license, report or material safety and data sheets.
9.
If applicable, the project owner may need to obtain a Certificate of Approval from the Ministry of
Environment for installations that release air or noise emissions. This may be relevant if the
compression unit emits a lot of sound and vibrations.
To avoid confusion and delays in processing, requests for approvals or inspections will be submitted in the
above order. At each successive stage, proof of approval from the previous stage will be supplied.
38
Ontario
Stationary Hydrogen Fuel Cell Systems
SUMMARY SHEET

Systems
Provincial
Ministry of Labour
Municipal
Other
Ontario Energy Board
Electricity Act

ANSI/CSA America FC1-2004
CAN/BNQ 1784-000 (2007)
CSA C22.1
CSA C22.3
IEC 60079-10
CSA B51-03
Other
Stationary Fuel Cell Power Systems

Canadian Electrical Code Part 3 (Electricity Distribution and Transmission
Systems)
Electrical Apparatus for explosive gas atmospheres Part 10:
Boiler, Pressure Vessel, and Pressure Piping Code and B51S1-05
(Supplement #1)
Ontario Fire Code
39
Ontario
SUMMARY SHEET

1.
A license is required from the Ontario Energy Board if the project owner intends to generate
electricity for the purposes of connection with the distribution grid. The applicant must be
authorized as an Independent Electricity Market System Operator.
2.
The full assembly of all electrical components must bear product certification marks from an
accredited certification body that is recognized by the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA).
3.
If plans for the installation of a stationary fuel cell system impact building structures or zoning bylaws, the building owner or a designate shall ensure that municipal building permits from local
Building and Planning Departments are obtained, if applicable.
4.
officers.
5.
6.
The Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) is responsible for the approval of any
installation wherein hydrogen is used as a fuel. TSSA's Fuels Safety Program will offer approval
in principle after an evaluation of the design of the hydrogen vessels and piping assembly
associated with the stationary fuel cell.
7.
8.
The ESA, which enforces electrical safety, will issue a Certificate of Inspection after a satisfactory
site inspection of the electrical installation.
9.
The Ontario Ministry of Labour requires that the following are completed:
>
>
>

40
Ontario
Vehicular or Mobile Hydrogen Fuel Cell Systems
SUMMARY SHEET
Installation of Vehicular or Mobile Fuel

Cell Systems
Provincial
Municipal
Draft Compressed Gas Regulation (Ontario Regulation 214/01)
Motor Vehicle Safety Act (of Canada) and Regulations
Transport of Dangerous Goods Act (of Canada) and Regulations
Relevant Codes, Standards and Other Documents

CSA B51-03
Other

(Supplement #1)
Ontario Fire Code
41
Ontario
Vehicular or Mobile Hydrogen Fuel Cell Systems
SUMMARY SHEET

1.
certification body.
2.
If plans for the parking or maintenance facility of the hydrogen-fuelled vehicles impact building
structures or zoning by-laws, the building owner or a designate shall ensure that municipal
building permits from local Building and Planning Departments are obtained, if applicable.
3.
phase of a project. In this case, their interest may be in the acceptability of the parking or
maintenance facility. The project owner is encouraged to contact local fire departments as early
as possible to initiate fire safety and fire prevention planning under the guidance of local fire
safety officers.
4.
installation wherein hydrogen is used as a fuel. TSSA's Fuels Safety Program will offer approval
in principle after an evaluation of the design of the hydrogen vessels and piping assembly
associated with the vehicular or mobile fuel cell system.
5.
Facilities that are involved with the installation of hydrogen components on post-sale vehicles
shall be registered with the TSSA.
6.
7.
42
Ontario
Portable Hydrogen Fuel Cell Systems
SUMMARY SHEET

Provincial
Electricity Act

CSA TIL R-18
CAN/BNQ 1784-000 (2007)
CSA C22.1
IEC 60079-10
CSA B51-03
Other
Interim Certification Requirements Portable Fuel Cell Power Systems

Electrical Apparatus for explosive gas atmospheres Part 10: Classification
of Hazardous Areas
(Supplement #1)
Ontario Fire Code
43
Ontario
SUMMARY SHEET

Due to possible reduced sizes of portable fuel cells (as appliances), the Technical Safety Standards Act
(and its Regulations for pressure vessels and fuel safety), as well as the Electricity Act (and its
Regulations for electrical appliances), should be consulted for applicability and determination of
whether the following approvals are required or not. This point is especially important if there have
been updates to the Technical Safety Standards Act since the writing of this Guide. In the event that
the appliance is of a certain size or has a certain parameter such that one or all of the Regulations
apply, the following shall apply.
1.
The fuel cell package must bear product certification marks from an accredited certification body
that is recognized by the Electrical Safety Authority.
2.
If not already complete by the manufacturer, then registration of the pressure vessels and the
pressure retaining components is required. The Technical Standards and Safety Authority
(TSSA) is responsible for the approval of any installation wherein hydrogen is used as a fuel.
TSSA's Fuels Safety Program will offer approval in principle after an evaluation of the design of
the hydrogen vessels and piping assembly associated with the fuel cell.
3.
44
Ontario
On-Site Hydrogen Generation Systems
SUMMARY SHEET

Generation Systems
Provincial
Ministry of Labour
Municipal
Electricity Act
Environmental Assessment Act

CAN/BNQ 1784-000 (2007)
CSA B51-03
CSA C22.1
IEC 60079-10
Other

Canadian Electrical Code
Electrical Apparatus for explosive gas atmospheres Part 10:
Ontario Fire Code
45
Ontario
SUMMARY SHEET

1.
The project owner shall ensure that municipal building permits from local Building and Planning
Departments are obtained, if applicable.
2.
officers.
3.
installation wherein hydrogen is used as a fuel. More specifically, TSSA's Fuels Safety Program
will offer approval in principle after an evaluation of the design of the hydrogen generation
system.
4.
Any pressure vessels or pressure fittings containing gases or liquefied gases other than hydrogen
will require approvals from the Boilers and Pressure Vessels Program of the TSSA.
5.
6.
A Certificate of Inspection will need to be obtained to operate any pressure vessel or piping
assembly for a specified period. A satisfactory site inspection of the installed vessels and piping
assembly (for any pressurized gases other than hydrogen) by a TSSA Boilers & Pressure Vessels
inspector shall be conducted.
7.
The Electrical Safety Authority (ESA), which enforces electrical safety, will issue a Certificate of
Inspection after a satisfactory site inspection of the electrical installation. The full assembly of all
electrical components must bear certification marks from an accredited certification body that is
recognized by the ESA.
8.
The Ontario Ministry of Labour requires the following:

>
>
>
9.
If applicable, the project owner may need to obtain a Certificate of Approval from the Ministry of
Environment for installations that release air or noise emissions.
46
Ontario

Authority Having Jurisdiction
complete package.
Building and Planning Department (Municipal)

Local building and planning departments of a particular municipality will review permit applications, issue
permits and conduct inspections in accordance with the Ontario Building Code, local zoning by-laws and
other legislation. All building and planning offices are supported by the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and
Housing, which administers the Ontario Building Code. The Ministry works with the municipal and building
sectors, as well as consumer groups, to improve the building regulatory system, while protecting public
safety.
CONTACT INFO for all municipal building departments are not listed here; the reader is advised to
contact local building permit offices.
Building Permits
Before work can start on construction projects that are defined as "buildings" under the Building Code
Act, the building owner is responsible for all compliance requirements, including building permits. In
many cases, building designers or contractors will apply for the permits on behalf of the building owner.
Generally speaking, a hydrogen installation may require a building permit if the structural design of a
building is impacted by any addition or demolition of a portion of the building, or if there is a change in
the buildings use.
Each municipality will offer a definition of when a building permit is necessary, which means that
requirements will vary. The building owner or a designate must contact the local building permit
department where the installation is planned and enquire about the requirements for planning,
development, and zoning and municipal by-laws.
Applications for building permit forms typically include:
>
Documents establishing compliance with applicable law
>
Identification of the individual who reviews and takes responsibility for design activities
47
Ontario
>
Types and quantities of plans and specifications for the proposed construction or demolition that
are prescribed by the by-law, resolution, or regulation of the municipality, upper-tier
municipality, board of health or conservation authority to which this application is made.
Inspections
Contractors and building owners are responsible for arranging inspections according to specific permit
requirements.
The Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) is responsible for

public electrical safety in Ontario. ESA is a stand-alone,
financially self-sustaining not-for-profit corporation
accountable to a Board of Directors and operating as an
Administrative Authority under the Electricity Act 1998 and
under an Administrative Agreement with the Ministry of
Government Services.
CONTACT
INFO

Multiple offices across Ontario
Tel: 1-877-ESA-SAFE (372-7233)
www.esainspection.net
The Electrical Safety Authority has adopted the Canadian Electrical Code (CSA C22.1) along with specific
Ontario amendments resulting in the Ontario Electrical Safety Code (the OESC).
The following is a list of ESA services that are most relevant to hydrogen energy systems:
Plan Approval A review of electrical installation plans to ensure that OESC requirements have been
addressed.
Wiring Inspections For all new construction and renovations electrical work must be inspected as
required by the OESC.
While it may be worthwhile to approach the Plan Approval division for consultation during early stages of
engineering design, final approval must be obtained by a Wiring Inspector. All electrical equipment must
be certified; thus, they must bear labels of a certification agency that is recognized in Ontario (see Product
Approval Requirements section below).
Inspections
Once your electrical contractor has completed the electrical wiring installation, the contractor is normally
responsible for submitting the application form: Industrial/Commercial/Institutional/Agricultural
Application for Inspection and Fee Estimate, which can be downloaded from the ESAs website. A copy is
also available in Appendix ON1. Once the components identified in the application form are inspected,
the ESA inspector will prepare a Certificate of Inspection.
Product Approval Requirements*
The Ontario Electrical Safety Code states that no person may advertise, display, offer for sale, connect to a
source of electrical power, or use any electrical equipment unless it has been approved by certification
organizations accredited by the Standards Council of Canada and recognized by the ESA. A list of
recognized marks is available in Appendix ON2.
This Guide does not explain the product certification process. It intends to describe the permitting process and
assumes that the owner has already obtained a label from any one of the recognized certification bodies.
48
Ontario
A Note about ESA Field Evaluations

Some readers may be aware of ESAs Field Evaluation service, which is relevant for unapproved, custombuilt products that may be part of a small batch or already be installed at a facility. Ontario uses the
Model Code SPE-1000 to perform field evaluations. Unfortunately, SPE-1000 does not apply to equipment
for use in hazardous locations (see Hazardous (Classified) Locations section below). This fact excludes
hydrogen systems from Field Evaluation services. Therefore, the manufacturer must ensure that all
electrical equipment, including the full assembly of equipment as one piece, receives certification.
Hazardous (Classified) Locations
An installation of a hydrogen energy system undoubtedly creates a hazardous location where risk of fire
or explosion may exist due to the flammable properties of hydrogen. As required by the Canadian
Hydrogen Installation Code (CHIC) and likely to be raised by any ESA inspector, the owner shall determine
the area classification of the installation using the IEC standard for Classification of Hazardous Areas (IEC
60079-10) as recommended by the CHIC.
Fire Department (Municipal)

Local fire departments protect the lives, property and environment of the people who live, work and visit
Ontarios cities. Service personnel are highly trained to respond to a wide variety of incidents, which
include, fires, rescues, and hazardous-material emergencies. The department is also responsible for fire
prevention, public education and emergency preparedness programs.
CONTACT INFO for all municipal building departments are not listed here; the reader is advised to
contact local fire departments.
The municipal fire departments are supported by the

Office of the Fire Marshal (OFM), which is a branch of the
Public Safety Division of the Ontario Ministry of Public
Safety and Security.
The OFM is responsible for
administering the Ontario Fire Code, which is a regulation
made under the Fire Protection and Prevention Act. It
contains comprehensive fire safety requirements
applicable to all buildings and premises in the province.
CONTACT INFO
Office of the Fire Marshal
Office of the Fire Marshal

Ministry of Community Safety and
Correctional Services
Head office:
5775 Yonge Street, 7th Floor
Toronto, ON M2M 4J1
Tel: 1-800-565-1842
www.ofm.gov.on.ca
Inspections
Fire Department personnel will conduct fire inspections during different phases of a project. Some
inspections are mandatory during the construction phase and others must happen before the building is
occupied. Each municipal fire department may request a different set of requirements depending on the
location of the installation. It is strongly advised to contact the Fire Department prior to construction.
Those who evaluate project plans prior to installation can offer guidance on requirements from the
Ontario Fire Code.
49
Ontario
CONTACT INFO
The Ministry of the Environment (MOE) is responsible for

Environmental Assessment And
protecting air, land and water to ensure healthy
Approvals Branch of the
communities, ecological protection and sustainable
development for present and future generations of
2 St.Clair Ave. West, Floor 12A
Ontarians. In an effort to ensure compliance with
Toronto, ON M4V 1L5
environmental laws, the MOE will issue Certificates of
Tel: 1-800-461-6290
Approval, which will become available to the public. Each
EAABGen@ene.gov.on.ca
completed Certificate of Approval addresses matters that
www.ene.gov.on.ca
fall within the mandate of the MOE, focuses on site specific
characteristics relevant to each proposal and contains
enforceable requirements for each facility to ensure the protection of human health and the natural
environment.
Certificate of Approval
Facilities that will release contaminants into the air or create noise may require a Certificate of Approval
from the Ontario Ministry of Environment (MOE). It is the responsibility of owners and operators of any
facility that emits air and/or noise emissions to apply for and obtain a Certificate of Approval.
The definition of a contaminant is very broad and may include particulate (from a process) or sound
emission. Unless explicitly exempted, most industrial processes and equipment require approval.
Certificates of Approval are required for (but not limited to) the following activities:
>
Construction, alteration, extension or replacement of any plant, structure, equipment, apparatus,

mechanism or thing that may discharge a contaminant (including noise) into any part of the
natural environment other than water;
>
Alteration of a process or rate of production with the result that a contaminant may be
discharged into any part of the natural environment other than water or the rate or manner of
discharge of a contaminant into any part of the natural environment other than water may be
altered.
The MOE checks for compliance with the requirements of (but are not limited to) the Environmental
Protection Act (EPA), the Environmental Assessment Act, the Environmental Bill of Rights, and the
associated regulations. All submitted applications are reviewed by specialized technical staff.
Part of the evaluation process includes an opportunity for public participation in the decision making
process. The Environmental Bill of Rights explains how Ontario residents may provide comments on the
proposal.
When the proposal meets the MOE's standards and addresses the public's environmental concerns, the
evaluation process results in an approval, permit, licence or environmental assessment decision.
Guides for applying for various types of approvals, along with application forms, are available at all MOE
offices.
A summary of the documents required in support of a Certificate of Approval is presented below:
>
Application for Approval (Air and Noise), completed and signed by applicant
>
Costs for EPA s.9 Applications Supplement to Application for Approval form, plus applicable fee
>
An Emission Summary and Dispersion Modelling Report
50
Ontario
>
Noise Screening Process for s.9 Application, Supplement to Application for Approval and
Supporting Information Worksheet, Supplement to Application for Approval shall be completed if
the application is for equipment that will generate noise and/or vibrations, or if it is for an
amendment to an existing approval that has the potential to change the noise and/or vibration
emissions for a facility.
Environmental Assessment for Electricity Projects (Not Required for Hydrogen Fuel Cell
Installations)
The MOE requires environmental assessments for most electricity projects. Several types of projects are
classified by the type of fuel used, the size, and even the efficiency of the planned facility. Fuel cells that
consume hydrogen fall under Category A Projects, which are those expected to have minimal
environmental effects. Category A projects do not require approval under the Environmental Assessment
Act, and therefore will not be subject to Electricity Projects Regulations.
In the case when significant environmental effects become associated with a project classified as Category
A, the MOE could request an individual environmental assessment.
A Guide to the Environmental Assessment Requirements for Electricity Projects is available from the
MOE website.
Ministry of Labour
CONTACT
INFO
The Ministry of Labour's mission is to advance safe, fair and harmonious workplace practices that are
essential to the social and economic well-being of the
people of Ontario. Through the Ministry's key areas of
Ministry of Labour
occupational health and safety, employment rights and
Multiple offices across Ontario
responsibilities,
labour
relations,
and
internal
Tel: 1-800-268-8013
administration, the ministry's mandate is to set,
www.labour.gov.on.ca
communicate, and enforce workplace standards while
encouraging greater workplace self-reliance.
The following forms are required by the Ontario Ministry of Labour as per the Occupational Health and
Safety Act.
Notice of Project
The constructor shall notify the Ministry of Labour before starting a project costing $50 000 or more in
labour and materials. A Notice of Project form shall be completed and returned to the nearest regional
office. It shall be posted in a conspicuous spot at the project site and be made available for any safety
inspector upon request.
Registration of Constructors
Every constructor and employer starting a project shall complete an approved registration form:
Registration of Constructor and Employers Engages in Construction. A copy of each employers form is to
be kept at the project while the employer is working there.
Pre-Start Health and Safety Review (PSHR)
A PSHR of the full project may be needed before the project is implemented. A PSHR is a written report
that is to be prepared before a new piece of machinery is installed and shall be made readily available at
the site of installation. It must be reviewed, signed and sealed by professional engineer. More
51
Ontario
information regarding the requirements of PSHR can be found under Section 7 of the Occupational Health
& Safety Act.
Health and Safety Inspections
Some inspections are mandatory during the construction phase and others must happen before the
building is occupied. Ministry inspectors also investigate accidents, work refusals, complaints and
fatalities on projects.
The Ontario Energy Board (OEB) regulates the provinces

electricity and natural gas sectors in the public interest.
The OEB also licenses all participants in the electricity
sector as well as natural gas marketers who sell to low
volume customers.
Project Licensing
CONTACT INFO

P.O. Box 2319
2300 Yonge Street
Toronto, ON M4P 1E4
Tel: 1-888-632-6273
market.operations@oeb.gov.on.ca
www.oeb.gov.on.ca
In Ontario, renewable energy projects that generate

electricity for sale (wholesale or retail) must be licensed by the Ontario Energy Board (OEB). Generators
who already have an OEB licence to generate electricity from other energy sources and who are
interested in also generating electricity from new renewable energy generation projects will need to ask
the OEB to amend the Schedule of Facilities, which is appended to the generators original licence, so that
a new hydrogen facility is included.
Provincial Connection Standards
The OEB recently produced common connection standards for distribution companies. Effective since
March 22, 2004, the rules facilitate renewable generation by ensuring that there are consistent
connection procedures throughout the province.
Connection to Local Distribution System
The owner of a renewable energy project is invited to contact the local electricity distribution utility
regarding the required electrical safety inspections and the requirements for proposed connections to the
electricity distribution system.
Connection to Hydro One Networks
In areas served by Hydro One Networks Inc., the owner of a renewable energy project is invited to contact
the local office of Hydro One.
Participation in the Independent Electricity Market System Operator (IESO) Program
Renewable energy generation projects that have one megawatt or more installed capacity, and plan to be
connected to Ontarios electricity transmission grid, must adhere to market rules administered by
Ontarios Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO). Any organization that wishes to participate in
IESO-administered markets, or that permits electricity to be conveyed through the IESO-controlled grid,
must be authorized as a market participant.
Electricity generators, such as fuel cells, with a generation capacity above one megawatt may apply to be
an "Intermittent Generator"; that is, classified as having an electricity output that is accepted at all times
by the IESO at Ontario's electricity spot-market price.
52
Ontario
With aims to enhance public safety, the Technical

Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) carries out a broad
spectrum of tasks on behalf of governments, businesses
and the general public. From safety inspections to
engineering reviews, technical training and certification, to
public education and outreach, TSSAs unique risk
management and proactive partnership approach helps
improve public safety outcomes. The TSSA administers
Ontarios Technical Standards and Safety Act 2000.
CONTACT INFO
Technical Standards & Safety Authority

Technical Standards and Safety
Authority
14th Floor, Centre Tower
3300 Bloor Street West
Toronto, ON M8X 2X4
Tel: 1-877-682-TSSA (8772)
customerservices@tssa.org
www.tssa.org
TSSA Fuels Safety Approval and Inspection

TSSA's Fuels Safety Program provides fuel-related safety services associated with the safe transportation,
storage, handling and use of fuels, including hydrogen. The TSSA regulates fuel suppliers, storage
facilities, transport trucks, pipelines, contractors and equipment or appliances that use fuels. TSSA also
works to protect the public, the environment and property from fuel-related hazards such as spills, fires
and explosions
As early as possible, an application form for the Approval of High Pressure System (FS 09142) (for sample
copy, see Appendix ON3), along with engineering drawings, bill of materials, and specifications for valves,
controls, and other components, shall be submitted to TSSAs Fuels Safety Program.
All pressure vessels and pressure fittings require design registration, and inspection at the location of
installation, before being put into operation in Ontario. It is strongly advised that each component
outlined in the bill of materials or specifications have an associated Canadian Registration Number (CRN).
The Fuels Safety Program will evaluate the design for conformance with the Canadian Hydrogen
Installation Code (CAN/BNQ 1784-000 (2007)) [CHIC]. Hydrogen dispensing systems may be subject to
additional requirements by the Fuels Safety inspector.
Inspections
A Fuels Safety engineer will inspect hydrogen pressure vessels and pressure piping at the location of
installation before they are put into operation. The installer shall perform a pressure test and
demonstrate operation of the hydrogen system among other requirements from the inspector. Upon
completion of the inspection, a Piping Systems Installation and Test Data Report Form is prepared and
signed by the owner (or piping contractor) and countersigned by the TSSA inspector. Furthermore, a
Certificate of Inspection will be issued. This document is required to operate any boiler or pressure vessel
for a specified period.
Previously, the definition of fuels in the Technical Standards & Safety Act only referred to hydrocarbons, such as
gasoline, diesel, propane and natural gas. As of 2007, hydrogen was recognized by the Act as a fuel, thus enabling the
TSSA to regulate such installations.
See Canada-Wide System> Registration of Pressure Vessels and Pressure Fittings on page 8.
53
Ontario
IMPORTANT NOTICE
H2 CERTIFICATION (FOR PERSONNEL)
Effective August 1, 2007, hydrogen-fuel facility operators must use a Hydrogen Certificate holder to
install, inspect or work on hydrogen equipment and accessories in Ontario. The Industry Certificate
Regulation (Ontario Regulation 215/01) has been amended by adding the hydrogen certificate, as
follows:
A person who is the holder of a H2 Certificate may do the following:
1.
Install, inspect, alter, purge, activate, repair, service or remove hydrogen appliances,
equipment, tanks, components and accessories.
2.
Install, purge, inspect, activate, repair, service and remove hydrogen fuelling equipment
and systems on industrial vehicles and stationary engines mounted on vehicles and on
motor vehicles within the meaning of the Highway Traffic Act.
3.
Install, alter, service, maintain and repair hydrogen vehicle refuelling stations.
For hydrogen facility operators, this means that the activities described in items 1, 2 and 3 above
must be performed by a person holding the H2 Certificate.
Any persons who intend to obtain the H2 Certificate should contact the Fuels Safety division of the
TSSA. The applicant may be requested to submit a special application form and proof of work
documentation. Evaluation of the applicant by the TSSA will include an interview and a test that is
partly based on the contents of the CHIC as well as empirical knowledge of pressure piping systems.
An application form is not available for download from the TSSA website at this time; the reader
should phone the TSSA directly.
TSSA Boilers & Pressure Vessels Safety Approval and Inspection

Under TSSA's long-standing Boilers and Pressure Vessel (BPV) Safety Program, TSSA regulates all pressureretaining components manufactured or used in Ontario. The staff inspect pressure equipment during the
manufacturing process, and again, after it has become operational. TSSA registers the designs of
equipment in accordance with recognized codes and standards.
For assemblies of pressure vessel(s) and fittings that make up a piping assembly containing compressed
gases other than fuel gases, the owner shall seek approval from the BPV Program of the TSSA. For
example, if part of the installation includes pneumatic pressure piping containing compressed air or
nitrogen, then the BPV program must separately approve this part of the design. The approvals process
identified in the section above (see TSSA Fuels Safety Approval and Inspection) applies in similar format
with the exception of the reference code. Here, the design and installation requirements must comply
with the requirements of CSA B51-03.
54
Ontario
Appendices
Appendices
Appendix ON1
Example of ESA Inspection Application Form
The reader is advised to visit the Electrical Safety Authoritys website (www.esainspection.net) and seek
their Industrial/Commercial/Institutional/Agricultural Application for Inspection and Fee Estimate
forms for download. Please note that the electrical contractors or others responsible for carrying out the
work shall obtain a permit from the authority.
55
Ontario
Appendices
Appendix ON2
ESA Approved Certification Marks for Electrical Products
The following are some examples of ESA recognized certification marks.
More information about certifications or field approvals, visit the ESA
website (www.esa-safe.com) and follow the links under Electrical
Product Approval.
Recognized Certification Markings
Recognized Field Evaluation Agency Markings
56
Ontario
Appendices
Appendix ON3
Example of TSSA Application for Approval of High Pressure System Form
The reader is advised to visit the Technical Standards and Safety Authoritys website (www.tssa.org) and
follow the links under Fuel Safety.
57
IN THIS SECTION
Qubec
>
>
SUMMARY SHEETS for

Systems

Systems

Jurisdiction
Qubec
Qubec
The regulatory approvals system in Qubec is streamlined; that is, all regulatory oversight and licensing
for buildings and their related independent installations is coordinated through one central governmental
agency, the Rgie du btiment du Qubec (the Rgie).
In addition to the Rgie, municipal approvals are required at local levels to ensure that zoning and public
safety requirements are met. The latter may superimpose demands on the installation that go beyond
those of the Rgie. The safety requirements are coordinated between the municipal authorities and the
Ministre de la scurit publique (Ministry of Public Safety). Secondary parties that may require
information are: the Commission de la sant et de la scurit du travail (CSST), which administers the
occupational health and safety laws; and the Ministre du Dveloppement durable, de l'Environnement et
des Parcs (Ministry of Sustainable Development, Environment and Parks).
Although the streamlined system in Qubec places the onus for code compliance on the owner through
the engineers, architects and contractors involved in the project, early coordination and communication
with the local and provincial authorities is emphasized as an important prerequisite to ensure eventual
technical compliance and to facilitate community acceptance of the proposed facility. Neglect of the
community concerns and issues may delay the implementation of the project.

in Qubec.
1.
2.
3.
4.
58
Qubec
SUMMARY SHEET

Systems
Provincial
Rgie du btiment du Qubec
Municipal
Local Zoning Department
Qubec Building Act

For full details, please see Table 5 under the section, The Specific Requirements per Each Authorities
Having Jurisdiction

1.
If plans for the installation of a hydrogen dispensing system impact building structures or zoning
by-laws, the building owner or a designate shall ensure that municipal permits from local Zoning
2.
The project owner is encouraged to contact local Fire Departments as early as possible to initiate
fire safety and fire prevention planning under the guidance of local fire safety officers.
3.
Although there are no requirements for submission of documents, pre-approval of the design, or
a Certificate of Inspection, all records shall be kept for presentation to the Rgie, which is
authorized to perform an audit inspection at any time.
59
Qubec
SUMMARY SHEET

Systems
Provincial
Municipal
Other
Hydro-Qubec
Qubec Building Act

Having Jurisdiction

1.
An Interconnection Contract with Hydro-Qubec is required if the project owner intends to

generate electricity for the purposes of connection with the distribution grid. The applicant must
enrol in the net-metering rate option.
2.
If plans for the installation of a stationary hydrogen fuel cell system impact building structures or
zoning by-laws, the building owner or a designate shall ensure that municipal permits from local
Zoning Departments are obtained, if applicable
3.
4.
60
Qubec
Vehicular Hydrogen Fuel Cell Systems
SUMMARY SHEET
Installation of Vehicular or Mobile Fuel

Cell Systems
Provincial
Municipal
Other
Socit dassurance automobile du Qubec
Qubec Building Act

Having Jurisdiction

1.
If the vehicle is an after-market retrofitted vehicle, then the Socit dassurance automobile du
Qubec (SAAQ) shall be contacted by the vehicle owner for approval, if applicable.
2.
If plans for the installation of a vehicular or mobile hydrogen fuel cell system, including its
maintenance or parking facilities impact building structures or zoning by-laws, the building owner
or a designate shall ensure that municipal permits from local Zoning Departments are obtained,
if applicable.
3.
Approval of local Fire Department for the acceptability of a parking or maintenance facility to
accommodate hydrogen-fuelled vehicles.
61
Qubec
Vehicular Hydrogen Fuel Cell Systems
SUMMARY SHEET
4.
62
Qubec
SUMMARY SHEET

Provincial
Municipal
Qubec Building Act

Having Jurisdiction

Due to possible reduced sizes of portable fuel cells (as appliances), the Building Act and its Regulations
for pressure vessels and electrical appliances should be consulted for applicability and determination of
whether the following approvals are required or not. This point is especially important if there have
been updates to the Building Act since the writing of this Guide. In the event that the appliance is of a
certain size or has a certain parameter such that one or all of the Regulations apply, the following shall
apply.
1.
If plans for the installation of a portable hydrogen fuel cell system, including its pressurized
storage containers, impact zoning by-laws, the building owner or a designate shall ensure that
municipal permits from local Zoning Departments are obtained, if applicable.
2.
3.
63
Qubec
SUMMARY SHEET

Generation Systems
Provincial
Municipal
Qubec Building Act

Having Jurisdiction

1.
If plans for the installation of a hydrogen generating system impact building structures or zoning
by-laws, the building owner or a designate shall ensure that municipal permits from local Zoning
2.
3.
64
Qubec

complete package.
IN DEPTH
MONTRAL
As the result of the merger of cities on the island of Montral in January 2002 and the subsequent demergers of 2004, an agglomeration council was created for the whole island and new zoning bylaws and
procedures fell under the responsibility of various municipalities. The de-merged cities include almost all
the municipalities of the west island and a number of others, such as, Westmount, Hampstead, and CteSaint-Luc.
Within the City of Montral, which includes 87 percent of the population in the agglomeration, zoning is
the responsibility of the 19 boroughs that make up the city. In addition to zoning bylaws, building permits
also fall under the responsibility of the boroughs. The process outlined below for Montrals boroughs
would also apply to municipalities outside of the island of Montral.
The City of Montreal Fire Department assumes the same position as the Rgie when it comes to
regulation. It imposes compliance with the National Fire Code on the owner of the hydrogen facility
through the engineering, architect and construction consultants employed to ensure such compliance.
While the National Fire Code is adopted, the City of Montral has added a number of modifications
specific to Montral. It is therefore incumbent on the project developer, in the case of new facilities or
modification of existing facilities, to consult with the Montral Fire Department.
65
Qubec
Local Fire Departments are concerned with fire safety and

become involved when a special exemption is required or
something new is requested, especially those that are not
covered in the current regulation.
CONTACT INFO for all municipal fire departments are
not listed here; the reader is advised to contact local fire
stations.
CONTACT INFO
Fire Department (Municipal)

In Montral:
Scurit incendie Montral
Division de lvolution de la
rglementation et du soutien la
prevention
Direction de la planification
stratgique
200, rue de Bellechasse
2e tage
Montral, QC H2S 1W4
The Fire Department is not involved in the installation per

se. This is the responsibility of the Rgie du btiment du
Qubec since the Rgie administers the National Fire
Code of Canada. In the event that a new technology, such
as a hydrogen energy system, is not covered under the
current regulations, the Fire Department may request testing, which they will carry out, or they may
require certification of compliance with their requirements. The fire by-law requires a fire safety plan and
a monitoring plan; this is the responsibility of the Fire Department.
Fire Protection Engineering Services
CONTACT INFO
In the event that hydrogen systems are planned for

installation within a federal facility in the province of
Qubec, federal approvals can be arranged through the
Fire Protection Engineering Services under the umbrella
organization, Human Resources & Skills Development
Canada.
In Montral:
Fire Protection Engineering
Services
Labour Directorate
Qubec Region
Human Resources & Skills
Development Canada
Guy Favreau Complex
200 Ren-Lvesque Blvd West
4th Floor-West Tower
Montral, QC H2Z 1X4
www.hrsdc-rhdcc.gc.ca
++
For information about other regions
in Qubec:
Director, Fire Protection Services
Labour Directorate
Human Resources & Skills
Development Canada
Place du Portage, Phase II, 10C132
Gatineau, QC K1A 0J2
www.hrsdc-rhdcc.gc.ca
66
Qubec
Hydro-Qubec
CONTACT INFO
Hydro-Qubec generates, transmits and distributes electricity. It

also supports self-generators who produce electricity from their
own facilities using renewable energy sources through its netmetering rate option.
Net Metering
Hydro-Qubec
Headquarters
75 rue Ren-Lvesque Ouest
Montral, QC H2Z 1A4
Tel: 1-800-363-7443
www.hydroQuebec.com
In Qubec, self-generating facilities can supply electricity to the

Hydro-Qubec grid. Through the net-metering option, eligible self-generators are allowed to feed their
surplus power into the Hydro-Qubec grid in exchange for credits in kilowatt-hours. The credits can be
used to reduce the balance of electricity bills. When the electricity needs exceed the self-generating
capacity, a continuous supply from the Hydro-Qubec power grid fills the gap. The billing statement
reflects both the consumption and the surplus fed into the Hydro-Qubec grid. Customers assume all the
costs of installing their generating equipment, as well as a $400 inspection fee set by the Rgie de
l'nergie, while complying with the Hydro-Qubecs
distribution, commercial, and technical
requirements.
Eligible clients include residential customers, farmers (Rate D or DM) or small-power business customers
(Rate G). A residential customer must be an owner-occupant. A business customer must be the owneroperator. Furthermore, the facilities must generate electricity from a renewable energy source, such as:
Solar (photovoltaic)
Hydropower
Bioenergy
Wind power
Geothermal
The maximum capacity of the generating facilities may not exceed the estimated capacity required to
meet the customer energy needs or 50 kW maximum. The generating equipment must be located on the
same premises as the delivery point stated on the electricity service contract.
More information for the Hydro-Qubec net-metering program is available at:
www.hydroQuebec.com/autoproduction/en
When the self-generation capacity exceeds the limit of the

net-metering program and/or other criteria of the program are
not met, Hydro-Qubec offers the Transnergie program. It is
applicable to all generating facilities, including self-generators,
which are connected to the distribution network.
Details of the required steps, including all relevant information
and fees are available at:
www.hydroQuebec.com/transenergie/en
CONTACT INFO
Larger Generating Facilities

Hydro Qubec Transnergie
Directrice Commercialisation
175 blvd. Ren-Lvesque Ouest
Complexe Desjardins, C.P. 10 000
Tour de l'Est, 9e tage
Montral, QC H5B 1H7
Tel: 514-289-5883
www.hydroQuebec.com
Requests to proceed into this approval process should be addressed to the Directrice Commercialisation
(marketing director) of the program. Additional information for the integration of private generating
facilities can be requested from the Ingnieur Intgration au rseau (network integration engineer).
67
Qubec
Ministre du Dveloppement durable, de l'Environnement et des Parcs

Environmental aspects fall under the responsibility of the Ministre du Dveloppement durable, de
lEnvironnement et des Parcs (Ministry of sustainable development, environment and parks). As per the
Construction Code (Chapter VIII Petroleum Equipment), the Ministry is concerned with any necessary
environmental measures at the time of contamination of soils resulting from a leakage or a spill of
petroleum product.
In general, hydrogen will not present releases that will be of environmental concern.
Established in 1992, the Rgie du btiment du Qubec (the

Rgie) has a mission to ensure proper quality of
construction work and the safety of the public who have
access to buildings or facilities intended for use by the
public or who use installations independent of a building.
As a result, a number of private and specialized buildings or
facilities, such as industrial establishments, are excluded
from oversight of the Rgie.
CONTACT INFO
The Rgie
Montral region:
545, boulevard Crmazie Est
Montral, QC H2M 2V2
Tel: 514-873-0976
www.rbq.gouv.qc.ca
++
The Rgie is currently consolidating seven technical laws
All other regions:
and 25 regulations into two codes: the Construction Code
and the Safety Code, both of which it administers through
800, place dYouville
the Building Act. Doing so will implement a single
Qubec, QC G1R 5S3
standard for all buildings and related equipment in
Tel: 1-800-361-0761
Qubec. Once the consolidation is complete, each code
www.rbq.gouv.qc.ca
will include specific regulations with shared responsibilities
among stakeholders, as detailed in Table 4. Under the
Building Act the stakeholders are owners, construction specialists that include contractors and ownerbuilders, designers such as architects and engineers, and any others people affected by the Act.
Table 4. A partial list of the relevant requirements of two codes, the Construction Code and the Safety Code, which
are enforced by the Building Act. The authority having jurisdiction is the Rgie du btiment du Qubec.
REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS
THE CONSTRUCTION CODE
THE SAFETY CODE
Designers (engineers and

architects), construction
contractors and building
owners are responsible for
enforcing all Code
requirements
Owners are required to

comply with all Code
regulations for any buildings,
equipment, and facilities that
they operate
Buildings
Electrical installations
Pressure installations
Installations designed for use,
distribution, or storage of gas
Other regulatory requirements include topics that are unrelated to hydrogen energy systems; so, they are not
expressed here. For instance, the topics cover installations for elevators and escalators, amusement rides, plumbing,
etc.
68
Qubec
The completed and planned sections (or Chapters) of the Construction Code are shown in Table 5. With
respect to hydrogen installations, only the chapter on pressure systems is yet to be completed. (However
incomplete sections are still administered by the Rgie under its previous technical laws and regulations.)
Table 5. A partial list of the completed and planned sections of the Qubec Construction Code. The authority
having jurisdiction is the Rgie du btiment du Qubec.
REGULATORY
REQUIREMENTS
DETAILS OF THE CONSTRUCTION CODE
Chapter I: Building
(Completed)
National Building Code of Canada 1995 with Qubec amendments
Chapter II: Gas

(Completed)
CSA B149.1-05, Natural Gas and Propane Installation Code;

CSA B149.2-05, Propane Storage and Handling Code;
CSA B108-99 (C2004), Natural Gas Fuelling Stations Installation Code;
CSA Z662-03, Oil and Gas Pipeline Systems, and CSA Z276-01, Liquefied
Natural Gas (LNG) Production, Storage, and Handling
(All have been modified for adaptation to Qubec and the provisions of
the Building Act.)
When the Building Act is amended to recognize hydrogen as a fuel, the
Gas chapter will include gaseous and liquefied hydrogen as well as
CAN/BNQ 1784-000 (2007) Canadian Hydrogen Installation Code
Chapter V: Electricity
(Completed)
CSA C22.1-06, Canadian Electrical Code, Part I, 20th Edition, with Qubec
amendments
Pressure Vessels
(To be completed)
CSA B51-M1991, Boiler, Pressure Vessel and Pressure Piping Code with
Qubec amendments.
Although the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) has updated the B51
standard, the M1991 edition remains in effect. When the pressure
vessels chapter of the Construction Code is complete, the most recent
B51 standard will be adopted.
Although a similar table could be developed for the Safety Code, thus showing that most of its sections
are complete, the Construction Code is more relevant for the approval of hydrogen energy systems.
The process in Qubec, with respect to the requirements of the Rgie, is much more streamlined than
those in other provinces. There are no requirements for submission of documents, for pre-approval of
the design, or for a final inspection. The design plans and specifications must be carried out by engineers
and architects who must follow the requirements of the relevant chapter of the Construction Code. The
professional is responsible for ensuring design compliance. Construction is carried out by a contractor
who follows the regulations and ensures that they are met in the actual construction.
While a final inspection is not required to begin operation of the system, the Qubec Building Act, which
administers the Construction Code, requires that records be kept for presentation during an audit that the
Rgie is authorized to perform at any time. Inspection audits will definitely occur in the event of a
complaint, accident or other such initiating events.
Other regulatory requirements include topics that are unrelated to hydrogen energy systems; so, they are not
expressed here. For instance, the topics cover installations for elevators and escalators, amusement rides, plumbing,
etc.
69
Qubec
Pressurized gas or liquefied hydrogen containment systems are subject to the Boiler, Pressure Vessel and
Pressure Piping Code. For the latter code, the Rgie requires the following documents:
>
Drawings
Piping & instrumentation diagrams
Process flow diagrams
Schematic drawings of components
Conceptualized images of equipment, if available
>
Bill of materials
>
Certificates
Proof of registration of fittings
Certification for service technicians
>
Proof test witness statements
>
Operating or user manual
>
Emergency response plans
There is no specific regulation governing hydrogen generation and storage of gaseous or liquid hydrogen.
Until the Canadian Hydrogen Installation Code (CHIC) is adopted, a good practice is voluntary
conformance to the requirements of CHIC.
The mission of the Socit de l'assurance automobile du

Qubec (SAAQ) (Qubec automobile insurance corporation)
is to provide insurance protection against the risks that are
inherent on the road.
Hydrogen-fuelled vehicles are regulated by the federal
government (Transport Canada) except in the case of
retrofitted vehicles where, in Qubec, the responsibility
defaults to the SAAQ. The SAAQ is guided by the federal
regulations when approving custom, after-market design
modifications.
CONTACT INFO
Socit de lassurance automobile du Qubec

Socit de lassurance automobile
du Qubec
P.O. Box 19600, Terminus
333, boulevard Jean-Lesage
Qubec, QC G1K 8J6
Tel: 418-643-7620 (Qubec region)
514-873-7620 (Montral region)
1-800-361-7620 (all other regions)
www.saaq.gouv.qc.ca
Zoning Department (Municipal)

Zoning concerns are dealt with by local borough offices, which have their own zoning bylaws and
permitting procedures.
CONTACT INFO for all municipal zoning departments are not listed here; the reader is advised to
contact local permit offices.
Once zoning concerns have been resolved, the next step in the construction a hydrogen facility in a
specific location is to obtain a building permit from the municipal authority responsible for authorizing
construction.
70
Qubec
A site plan and detailed structural drawings shall be prepared and submitted as per the specific
requirements of the particular municipality. The drawings, which must be signed and sealed by a licensed
engineer or architect or both, and must demonstrate compliance to the locally enforced municipal
requirements.
Because hydrogen energy systems are new and authorities may not have an experience base to draw on
for decision-making, a hydrogen safety engineer will probably need to be retained as an additional part of
the team seeking a building permit. For example, although sprinkler installation may be mandated,
sprinklers are sometimes inappropriate for rooms containing metal hydrides for hydrogen storage; thus,
other types of fire extinguishing media will be required. Also, external placement of compressed
hydrogen tanks requires appropriate clearances from buildings, adjacent properties, and parked vehicles.
Sometimes the clearance measurements may require additional interpretation during the approval
process.
In the case of hydrogen usage within a building for either production (by electrolysis) or use (by a fuel
cell), a request for a construction permit for a new residential or commercial building user will be made to
the borough office and dealt with by that borough. The borough will decide if the residential or
commercial project conforms to the local zoning bylaw in terms of land use, size, and other zoning
specifications. Fuel cells within the building will not present a zoning issue unless hydrogen storage
vessels are located outside of the building (potential impact to aesthetics). Should exterior vessels be
present, there are provisions within the zoning bylaw that will apply. Otherwise, hydrogen fuel cells are
considered a usage accessoire, or, an accessory of the buildings main use (i.e. residential, commercial,
etc.) thereby eliminating any zoning issues for the fuel cells. A usage accessoire is automatically
permitted when the buildings main use is permitted.
In the case of hydrogen filling stations, a request for a construction permit will also be made to the
borough office. Zoning bylaws of boroughs are very similar among one another; that is, they permit the
fuelling stations to fall under many categories of commercial zones. When the permit for the first
hydrogen filling station is requested, it will raise the issue of whether hydrogen is a fuel under the zoning
bylaw. If not, the borough will have to modify their zoning bylaw to specify where hydrogen filling
stations are allowed. Since the provincial laws that give the zoning power to municipalities specify that no
use can be totally prohibited, one could successfully contest a municipalitys decision to prohibit the use
of hydrogen as a fuel. In that context, one can reasonably anticipate that boroughs will consider
hydrogen to be a fuel and act accordingly.
71
Notes
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Hydrogen Energy Installation

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Permitting Hydrogen

and Fuel Cell

Air Liquide Canada

with support from

Canadian Transportation and Fuel Cell Alliance

Natural Resources Canada

Jean Dub, HyExpert Inc.

Susana Katz, S. Katz & Associates

Sandra Oh, Air Liquide Canada

About the Authors

Dr. D. Robert Hay

British Columbia ....................................................................... 11

Hydro Qubec ....................................................................................................... 67

Elements of the Guide

Project owners or their designated installers

Designers such as engineers and architects

Authorities having jurisdiction (AHJs)

Construction specialists, including contractors and building owners

Investors and insurers

Types of Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Installations

Hydrogen Dispensing System Installations

Stationary Fuel Cell System Installations

Vehicular or Mobile Fuel Cell System Installations

PARKING & MAINTENANCE FACILITY

Portable Fuel Cell System Installations

On-Site Hydrogen Generation Installations

NO MATTER THE TYPE OF TECHNOLOGY

Definition of Authority Having Jurisdiction

Codes and Standards Governing Canadian Hydrogen

Obtaining Approvals for New Hydrogen Facilities

Registration of Pressure Vessels and Pressure Fittings

Best Practice Recommendations

Definition of Authority Having Jurisdiction

Codes and Standards Governing Canadian Hydrogen Installations

Canadian Hydrogen Installation Code (CAN/BNQ 1784-000 (2007))

Boiler, Pressure Vessel and Pressure Piping Code (CSA B51-03)

Canadian Electrical Code, Part 1, 20th Edition (CSA C22.1-06)

The Canadian Gas Codes:

Natural Gas and Propane Installation Code (CSA B149.1-05)

Propane Storage and Handling Code (CSA B149.2-05)

Natural Gas Fuelling Stations Installation Code (CAN/CSA B108-99 (C2004))

National Building Code of Canada 2006

National Fire Code of Canada 2005

National Plumbing Code of Canada 2005

Association (CSA). The building, fire and

THE CANADIAN HYDROGEN

The CAN/BNQ 1784-000 Canadian Hydrogen

Stationary and portable fuel-cell installations

Vehicle fuelling stations

Hydrogen generating installations

Gaseous and liquid hydrogen storage and

Obtaining Approvals for New Hydrogen Facilities

Registration of Pressure Vessels and Pressure Fittings

Best Practice Recommendations

Risk Informed Design

From the website, www.H2BestPractices.org, a US Department of Energy funded site.

Emergency Response Planning

LIST OF POTENTIAL HYDROGEN-RELATED RISKS

Names and job titles of persons who can

Although the quantities of hydrogen involved as

An emergency alarm system to alert

Hydrogen leaks (controllable and uncontrollable

Procedures for summoning outside assistance

Procedures for those who will remain on