I would like to start off by saying I like this site. It has been very helpful and a lot of good information about the HVAC industry.
I've just started a gas technician 3 course a few weeks ago and I've been getting ahead in my modules now. I'm on modules 4 & 4A learning about TSSA, the Act, the various regulations and the code. I've got a couple of Questions about that. I can't seem to find the answers in my lessons or on Google, so I was wondering if you could help me.
So I know TSSA governs and inspects its technicians in Ontario. But I was wondering who governs and inspects all the A/C mechanics in Ontario? Is it Electrical Safety Authority?
Scenario: If a gas technician (without an A/C ticket) was let say cleaning or servicing the heating side of a dual rooftop unit during the summer and notices the cooling side was causing a hazard. Could the gas technician using due diligence A or B tag that appliance according to the gas code? Maybe using code clause 4.5.2 of the B149.1?
Good luck with your training, I think you picked a great trade to work in. Make sure to check out our G2 and G3 practice exams ;)
The MTCU (http://www.tcu.gov.on.ca/eng/), Ministry of Colleges and Universities, administers the testing and certification for the 313A Refrigeration and air conditioning systems mechanic (http://www.hvactechgroup.com/files/313A.pdf) and the 313D Residential air conditioning systems mechanic (http://www.hvactechgroup.com/files/313D.pdf) licenses. Usually it's the Ministry of Labour inspectors that hand out fines to uncertified people working on air conditioners.
Ontario Regulation 212/01 (http://www.hvactechgroup.com/article.php/20071004200121769) Section 13 or 14 would require a TSSA certificate holder to issue either an immediate or non-immediate warning tag where deficiencies and code infractions are found.
The following are Clauses from the B149 Gas Code that you could enforce using your example,
Clause 4.5.2 - The use of an appliance, accessory, component, equipment, or material shall be prohibited where a hazard is created.
Clause 7.12.1 - When a furnace is installed in conjunction with a refrigeration coil, the arrangement shall be such that condensate is prevented from dripping onto the heating surface either by disposal of the condensate or by other means.