Following their notable careers at Ontario Hydro where they developed testing methods for a range of high voltage equipment and safety devices used by utilities throughout Canada, William (Bill) Burgess and John Love founded Lineman’s Testing Laboratories of Canada (“LTL”), a privately owned high voltage testing laboratory located at 100 Rivalda Road in Toronto.

After John Love passed away, Bill Burgess became the sole shareholder and, with the support of his wife Kathleen, continued to grow the business, realizing their vision and laying the foundation for the LTL we know today.

Bill Burgess passed away in November 1971, and Jack Burgess took over leadership of the company, honouring his brother’s family commitments. For nearly 20 years, Jack upheld the strong reputation that Bill had built for providing quality products and services.

Robert Burgess, son of Bill Burgess, acquired LTL and assumed the roles of CEO and President following the passing of Jack Burgess in 1991. Having apprenticed at North York Hydro, Robert became a certified Journeyman-Lineman in 1988. As LTL strengthened its reputation as the trusted supplier of electrical products and services, the industry’s growing focus on safety awareness, legislated standards, best practices, and due diligence led to an increased demand for specialized testing services.

LTL broadened its reach across the country by opening sales offices in Quebec and British Columbia.

LTL became a fully accredited NAIL for PET high voltage testing laboratory and served many years on the NAIL Board of Directors. LTL is currently a member of the ASTM F18 committee on Electrical Protective Equipment for Workers. Today, LTL continues to undergo regular audits to ensure all industry accepted standards are strictly adhered to, including review of operational areas including but not limited to laboratory facility, equipment, training and knowledge of staff, quality control work procedures, and financial responsibility.

As the business expanded, it became necessary to relocate to a larger facility. LTL conveniently moved its operations just down the street to 41 Rivalda Road.

LTL launched the first NAIL-accredited full-service high voltage testing laboratory in Edmonton, providing mobile testing services alongside its core offerings.

LTL acquired a fully automated, state-of-the-art mobile Transformer oil regeneration plant to be used as a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution to extending Transformer life by regenerating oil to as new or better condition.

LTL moved its Toronto operations to a larger facility allowing for the expansion of its Utility Supply Division, increased inventory, and expanded testing, repair, and calibration services to satisfy the needs of its 7,000 active customer accounts.

The Edmonton branch relocated to a larger facility to accommodate increased inventory and expanded service offerings, enhancing our ability to serve and support customers in the West.

In its 65th year, LTL was acquired by Rexel Canada. To effectively grow and compete with multi-billion-dollar industry leaders, Robert Burgess decided that selling the business was in the best interest of the company and its employees. He saw Rexel as the ideal partner to elevate LTL to the next level—a partnership that has since proven advantageous for all involved.