Because of the nature of what an electrician is usually responsible for, there aren't many people who can do what this professional does, especially the average homeowner.
This includes tasks such as fixing electrical issues especially ones without circuit breaker panel labels in place.
In these cases, the help of a qualified electrical professional is extremely necessary.
Electrical contractors are companies that complete specific construction work related to the design, installation, and preservation of electrical systems. These firms are different from electricians, who are tradesmen.
Contracting companies hire electricians to work for them while each holds their own licenses and insurance. The licenses and insurance requirements vary from state to state.
This industry brings lightning, power, and communications to communities throughout the world. The jobs for people who work in electricity come in four classifications.
Apprentice
These persons receive on the job training with classroom instruction from licensed peers on how to install, repair, maintain, and modify if necessary, power and lighting systems. These programs last from three to five years and the apprentices are paid during this period.
Journeyman
While performing the duties above, these trainees learn to read blueprints, work with cable systems, and installs and maintains control wiring from drawings. These workers hold a Journeyman's license and supervise apprentices.
Estimator This person calculates the cost of a project based on probable length of job completion. This calculation includes cost, materials, possible overhead, and cost of labor.
Project Supervisor
These leaders oversee the entire project. They are responsible for a safe working environment, high-quality job performance, and monitor all progress to ensure project deadlines. They're also responsible for all paperwork.
Contractor Classification
The companies that provide these services are classified by the type of work they perform.
- "Outside" or "line" workers are in charge of the high-voltage power lines that crisscross our country. They make sure that the energy produced by power plants reaches our communities safely.
- "Inside" personnel provide power to structures and are the prime service provider for all cabling design, installation, and maintenance of commercial, residential, and institutional buildings.
- "Integrated building systems" (IBS) or "Voice/Data/Video" (VDV) personnel work primarily with low voltage systems. These systems include backup power, climate control, wireless networks, efficient lighting, communications, fiber optic, and more while maintaining the performance and efficiency of the system.
Nationally Recognized Associations
In the United States, there are three trade associations for electrical workers. These are the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) and the Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC).
These two associations have many chapters across the U.S., which provides continuing education and training apprenticeship programs. The program's guidelines are provided by the U.S. Department of Labor.
The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers represents hundreds of thousands of members and also provides teaching and apprenticeship curriculum.
Additionally, anyone who builds a power system is required to follow the National Electrical Code (NEC) to certify all systems work in a safe manner.
The NEC is a nationwide model code for the installation of components and systems designed to safeguard persons and property from the hazards associated with electricity.