Electricians 101
Electricians install, maintain and repair electrical power, power lines and lighting in homes, businesses and industrial properties. They install and maintaining electrical wiring that ensures a steady flow of electricity.
Electricians can specialize in either construction or maintenance. Electricians that focus on construction install electrical wiring in residential homes or factories. Electricians that focus on maintenance fix and upgrade existing electrical systems and repair. Electricians are mandated by law to follow building codes when installing and maintaining electrical systems.
Roles of electricians
- Analyze blueprints
- Install and maintain electrical wiring and lighting
- Inspect electrical parts such as circuits and transformers
- Determine the cause behind electrical problems
- Repair and replace electrical wiring, lighting and equipment
- Supervise workers on proper installation techniques
Electricity has become a basic need today powering homes, factories and everyday necessities. Almost every residential home and commercial building has electricity and lighting fixtures that are put in during construction and maintained afterwards. Electricity makes life more comfortable and performing tasks easier.
Electricians read blueprints and diagrams of electrical systems that show the specific location of electrical wiring, circuits and other electrical equipment. They use a variety of tools such as screwdrivers and power tools to maintain and protect the wiring. They may also use ammeters to ensure electrical components are functioning effectively.
Electricians can work alone or with others. They often help architects and engineers design and install electrical systems in new buildings.
Injuries
Electricians are susceptible to more injuries in comparison to other manual workers. Some injuries include electrical shocks and burns, and some have the potential to be fatal accidents. Electricians, therefore, require protective clothing and equipment to reduce the occurrence of these injuries.
Work schedules
Electricians on construction sites work full time, and their work schedules extend to weekends at times. Residential electricians can set their own schedules and have flexible hours.
Becoming an electrician
Most electricians learn their trade by attending a technical school. In addition, Australia requires electricians to be licensed in order to operate anywhere in the country. An individual can also become an electrician through an apprenticeship that typically last four to five years.
Electricians in school and in apprenticeship learn about how to interpret blueprints, electrical codes and safety practices and how to operate and maintain electrical systems. Employment for electricians is predicted to grow over the next decade due to the increase in construction and demand for different sources of energy such as solar.