Electric Vehicle Charging. Safety and key instructions

These are the "must actions" to perform and security instructions when you charge an electric vehicle.

EVs are different to operate, they are not like your conventional (ICE) internal combustion engine vehicle. Be aware of the following indications.

• Place the connector and the power cable back in its place, in the charging point holder and holster. Never leave the cable on the ground after charging. Make sure the charging cable is secured and safe to avoid damages!
• Locked connector. Never try to remove the connector with force. If a charge is to be interrupted, make sure that the connector is unlocked. Stop charging and then the connector will unlock. The vehicle may also require the connector to be released if charging is interrupted. Once unlocked, press the button on top of the connector (if present) and remove it.
• Button on connector top. With the charging connector in hand, press the button on top of the connector and insert the connector into the vehicle’s charging socket, the vehicle will start communicating with the charger.
• If the vehicle is not charging, check the cables if they are properly connected at both ends. 
• If the power cable or the charging plug is damaged, please contact our Customer Support.
• Despite the water resistance of the enclosure, when cleaning it is preferred to not direct streams of water at the unit. Clean with a soft, damp cloth.
• Do not attempt to repair charging equipment yourself. Contact 7Gen or a qualified electrician for assistance. 
• In extreme temperatures, the efficiency in a charge session is slightly reduced. 
• Do not use the charger if the enclosure is broken, cracked, open or shows any other indications of damage. If you notice that the cabinet, power cord or charging cable are frayed, have broken insulation, exposed metal, or other issues, do not use the equipment.
• Keep flammable materials away. When charging, ensure there are no flammable materials nearby. EV batteries are generally safe, but in rare cases, malfunctions can occur. Keeping flammable substances away reduces the risk of fire hazards.

• Check the charger setting in the vehicle. Depending on the vehicle type, it may have a smart charging or delay timer option that does not allow your vehicle to charge until the set time.
• Make sure the vehicle is switched off before start the charging process.
• Ensure it is in Park position.
• If the vehicle is equipped with Air Brake, you must ensure the Neutral position for starting to charge and that the air parking brake is applied.
• Exit & ensure vehicle is secure (door closed)
• Key-Off (waiting for Electronic Control Module downturn) 
• Open charging port & plug-In
• Do not put tools, material or body parts into the electric vehicle connector.

  IMPORTANT

Be mindful of charging times. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for charging times and avoid unnecessarily leaving your EV charging for extended periods. Overcharging can strain the battery and potentially cause damage. It will slowly pull life away from the length of service.
For example, in some types of commercial vehicles, when charging constantly and for multiple days in a row, you may have to consider that the water pump will be continuously running as well to cool the battery. This will result in premature wear of the water pump.

Main Types of EV Chargers and Charging Speeds

There are three main types of EV chargers used in Canada: Level 1, Level 2, and DC Fast Charging. Understanding the difference between them helps EV drivers and fleet operators choose the right power source for each situation.

Level 1 uses a standard 120V outlet and is the slowest charging option available. Level 1 EV chargers add approximately 8 kilometres of range per hour, making them suitable for vehicles that cover short distances daily or where overnight charging at a low voltage outlet is the only option available. A full charge from empty can take 24 hours or more, so Level 1 is rarely used as a primary charging method for commercial fleets.

Level 2 operates on a 240V circuit and is the most widely used option for both residential use and commercial locations. Level 2 electric vehicle chargers add 30 to 50 kilometres of range per hour, allowing most EVs to reach a fully charged state overnight. Most EV chargers installed at fleet depots, workplaces, and public charging stations are Level 2. Proper installation by a licensed electrician is required, and the charger must be connected to a dedicated circuit.

DC Fast Charging, also called rapid charging or Level 3, uses direct current to deliver high voltage power directly to the vehicle battery, bypassing the onboard charger. DC fast charging stations can add hundreds of kilometres of range in under an hour and are typically found at highway rest stops and commercial locations along major travel corridors. DC fast is ideal for long trips where a quick top-up is needed between destinations. For daily fleet operations, most manufacturers recommend Level 2 as the primary charging method, as sustained daily use of DC fast charging at high power levels can have a minor cumulative effect on long-term battery health compared to regular Level 2 overnight charging.

Not all electric vehicle chargers support every charging level. Compatibility depends on the specific vehicle's charging port and connector type, and connector standards vary across networks. Always confirm connector compatibility before travelling to a specific public charging station.

EV Charger Installation Safety

Proper installation of EV charging equipment is essential for safety, reliability, and compliance with Canadian electrical codes. For Level 2 charging, all installation work must be carried out by a licensed electrician with experience in EV charger installation. This involves connecting to the home's or facility's electrical panel, sizing the dedicated circuit correctly, and ensuring all wiring meets local code requirements.

Do not use an extension cord or a multiplug adapter to charge your electric car. These are not rated for the sustained current draw of EV charging and create a serious risk of overheating, electrical fires, or electrical shock. Always connect directly to a grounded outlet or hardwired charging unit. Using only grounded plugs minimizes the risk of electric shocks and ensures a stable connection to the power source.

Ensure that your outlet or circuit breaker includes Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protection. GFCI protection shuts off electricity instantly if a ground fault is detected, which significantly reduces the risk of electrical shock during a charging session. Your electrician can confirm whether GFCI protection is included in your installation and advise on whether it is required under your local code.

Only use charging equipment that has been independently tested and certified by a recognized organization such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL), the Canadian Standards Association (CSA), or an equivalent body. Certified EV chargers meet established safety standards for electrical performance, thermal management, and physical durability. Avoid using uncertified equipment, which may lack the safeguards required for safe EV charging.

Never connect EV charging equipment to a shared circuit. The sustained high current draw of ev charging requires its own dedicated line. Connecting to a shared circuit risks overloading the home or facility's electrical infrastructure, which can cause tripped breakers, damaged wiring, or in serious cases, electrical fires.

Charging your electric vehicle in a garage is generally safe provided that the garage's electrical infrastructure is up to code, the charger is certified for residential use, and the installation has been performed by a licensed electrician. Ensure there is a clear and safe path around the charging equipment and that the garage is free of clutter and flammable materials near the charging station.

Public Charging Safety

Public charging stations at highway rest stops, commercial locations, and shared parking facilities are designed for regular use and meet recognized safety standards. Before plugging in at any public EV charging station, inspect the charging equipment and your vehicle's charging port for visible damage. A damaged charger, bent connector, cracked casing, or exposed wires are all reasons not to use that station. Report any damaged equipment to the station operator before leaving.

It is safe to charge your electric vehicle in the rain and during most weather conditions. EV chargers and charging stations are designed and certified to withstand moisture and rainy conditions. However, avoid charging if you notice exposed wires, physical damage to the charger, or water pooling inside any part of the equipment. Damaged electrical equipment combined with moisture significantly increases the risk of electrical shock.

When choosing a public charging station for long trips, use stations at well-lit, populated locations with good visibility. This is especially important at highway rest stops and overnight stops. Always confirm that the station is from a reputable network and that the equipment carries a valid certification mark.

Some connected features at public charging stations require account linking through an app or RFID card. Check your fleet's preferred network accounts before departure to avoid delays at the charging station. If EV plugged confirmation does not appear on your vehicle's display within a few minutes of connecting, disconnect carefully and inspect the connector and charging port before trying again.

Key EV Charging Safety Guidelines

This EV charging safety guide summarizes the most important safety tips and safety protocols for fleet operators, ev drivers, and every ev owner responsible for a commercial electric vehicle. Following these safety guidelines consistently reduces the risk of electric shocks, electrical fires, physical damage to the vehicle, and premature battery degradation.

Key safety guidelines for charging your EV:

• Inspect your charging cable, connector, and charging port before each session. Do not use a damaged charger or damaged cable under any circumstances.
• Avoid charging if you notice exposed wires, physical damage to the charger casing, or unusual odours or sounds during the charging process.
• Avoid frequently charging the battery to 100% for daily operations. Keeping charge levels between 20% and 80% supports longer battery lifespan for most commercial electric vehicle applications. Only charge to fully charged when a long trip requires maximum range.
• In extreme temperatures, use your vehicle's app to pre-condition the battery while it is still connected to the charger. This reduces thermal stress on the battery cells and improves overall charging efficiency.
• Keep flammable materials away from the charging area and maintain a clear, safe path around the charging equipment at all times.
• Never use an extension cord, multiplug adapter, or ungrounded outlet as a power source for EV charging.
• Follow all safety guidelines and instructions in your vehicle's owner's manual and in the charger manufacturer's documentation.
• For ev charger installation, always use a licensed electrician and certified charging equipment that meets Canadian safety standards.

As more electric vehicles enter commercial fleets across Canada, consistent safety protocols become increasingly important at the fleet level. Fleet operators should ensure all ev drivers are trained on charging safety, familiar with the specific charging equipment at their depot, and aware of how to identify and report damaged charger equipment in the field. For questions about safety standards or fleet charging setup, contact 7Gen support.

DO YOU HAVE AN ISSUE THAT REQUIRES FURTHER ASSISTANCE?

Please, do not hesitate to contact us through:

• 7Gen Customer Support Portal. By clicking here you can find instructions on how to create an account within our support center. 
• Email: support@7gen.com
• Emergency line / 24/7 Call Support:  +1 855 743 6938