What are the Types of Electricians?

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Understanding the Different Types of Electricians

Whether you’re a homeowner, landlord, or business owner, dealing with electrical issues can be a daunting task. One of the most important decisions you might have to make is choosing the right type of electrician for your specific needs. While all electricians are trained to work with electricity, they have varying areas of expertise. In this blog post, we’ll explore the different types of electricians you might encounter and what specific tasks they are trained to handle.

Domestic Electricians

Domestic electricians are perhaps the most common electricians you might require. These professionals are skilled in carrying out electrical work on residential properties. They can carry out a variety of tasks that include installing wiring and lighting in your home, replacing old fuse boards, and fixing electrical faults. They can also help improve your home’s energy efficiency by installing energy-saving devices like timers and thermostats. So, if you’re experiencing any electrical issues in your home, be sure to call Glenfield Electrical. We have a dedicated, experienced and qualified team of domestic electricians based in Leicester.

Commercial Electricians

Commercial electricians specialise in electrical work for commercial buildings such as offices, shops, and restaurants. They can install and repair electrical systems for these properties, ensuring that everything is up-to-date and safe. In addition, they can install lighting and security systems as well as carry out testing and maintenance on electrical systems. They typically work on projects like cable tray and conduit installation, data cabling, and electrical panel installation. They also ensure that the electrical systems are safe for employees and customers in the building. Commercial electricians are often called in for larger-scale commercial projects and usually have a team of electricians who work with them.

Industrial Electricians

Industrial electricians are trained to manage electrical systems in industrial settings. They work on various components of machines and electrical panels. Some of the tasks include testing and maintaining motors, switches, and other complex electronic components. They are also involved in troubleshooting and carrying out repairs, wiring installation, and meter calibration.

Maintenance Electrician

Maintenance electricians are responsible for carrying out routine maintenance tasks on electrical systems both in industrial and commercial areas. Their role is to ensure that all machinery is running correctly and maintenance checks are performed regularly. Maintenance electricians can also do changeovers, testing, and calibration of equipment.

Construction Electricians

Construction electricians work on new construction sites and have a different set of skills from other electricians. They carry out installations of electrical systems in new buildings, from installing lighting and receptacles to wiring new construction areas and installing power systems for a building.

Qualifications Needed to Work as an Electrician

Obtaining the proper qualifications is essential to becoming an electrician in the UK. Several national certifications can equip you with the necessary knowledge and skills to safely and effectively handle electrical systems. These include:

Level 3 Electrical Installations Diploma

This vocational qualification deepens your technical knowledge and skills in electrical installation, testing and inspection and fault diagnosis. The course can be completed from one year to three years, depending on the course structure and individual circumstances and is available at numerous educational institutions and training providers, including specialised trade schools and community colleges.

Level 3 NVQ Electrical

This qualification is a competency-based assessment that focuses on practical skills and on-site performance within the electrotechnical industry. The NVQ covers various aspects of electrical work including installation, maintenance, and inspection and testing of electrical systems. You can obtain this certification through an apprenticeship or work-based training program.

The City & Guilds Level 3 Award in Requirements for Electrical Installations

This vocational qualification is designed for practising electricians and other allied professionals who need to update or enhance their understanding of the British Standard for electrical installation. The course, known as the 18th Edition, covers the design, installation, commissioning, and maintenance of electrical systems. Many colleges and training providers offer this course and it takes around one year to complete.

Achievement Measurement 2 (AM2) Assessment

To become a qualified electrician, you need to pass the AM2 assessment. It covers topics such as installation, inspection and testing, and fault-finding in accordance with national regulations and safety standards, each with specific time allocations. This essential test typically spans 16.5 hours over three days and includes a short online component.

Continuing Professional Development (CPD)

Electricians need to undertake a compulsory CPD to maintain a practitioner’s licence. Activities that count towards CPD points can include conferences, workshops, e-learning programs, best practice techniques, and ideas sharing, all focused on ensuring your skills and knowledge remain up-to-date and effective.

Competent Person Scheme Membership

This scheme allows electricians to self-certify their work and issue a certificate of compliance. Members of a Competent Person Scheme are vetted, reassuring customers they possess the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience to carry out work to the standards. Providers of approved Competent Person Schemes include The National Association of Professional Inspectors and Testers (NAPIT) and the National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contracting (NICEIC).

The Importance of Hiring a Professional Electrician for Safe and Efficient Electrical Systems

Electricians are highly skilled professionals who play a crucial role in our lives. If you’re experiencing any problems with your electrical systems, it is crucial to call an expert who has relevant knowledge and training in that area. Whether you need electrical work done in your home, business, or a large-scale industrial facility, finding the right electrician can ensure that your electrical systems are safe, efficient, and cost-effective. Electrical work can be dangerous and should never be taken lightly. If you ever need the services of an electrician, make sure you choose Glenfield Electrical. Working with experienced electricians like Glenfield Electrical will ensure your safety and peace of mind.