Why Electrical Contractors Are Important?

If you’ve ever wondered, ‘What do electrical contractors do?’, simply put, they are the professionals behind the safe and functional electrical systems in every building. Electrical contractors manage the life cycle of electrical systems from conception to installation, maintenance and upgrades. In this article, we’ll dive into their specific tasks, including overseeing complex projects, adhering to strict safety codes, and ensuring our built environment remains powered and productive.

Key Takeaways

• Electrical contractors are integral to the construction industry, designing, installing, and maintaining electrical systems, and ensuring they are safe, efficient, and sustainable, including the implementation of renewable energy and eco-friendly solutions.

• The scope of work for electrical contractors includes high and low-voltage systems, security systems, and comprehensive system design and management, often collaborating with architects and engineers to fulfil commercial and retail project demands.

• Differences between electricians and electrical contractors lie in their scope of work; electricians typically handle more straightforward installation and repair, while electrical contractors are businesses that manage larger-scale projects and employ electricians.

Understanding Electrical Contractors

Specialising in construction work, electrical contractors design, install, and maintain electrical systems, guarantee the systems’ effectiveness, safety, and environmental friendliness through efficient design, use renewable energy sources, and implement eco-friendly wiring solutions like smart grid technology. Their expertise ensures high-quality electrical systems for various projects.

In retail environments, electrical contractors take on the responsibility of installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical systems, including energy-efficient lighting. They carry out routine inspections to ensure correct wiring and adherence to safety codes and regulations. In commercial settings, they act as electrical project managers, overseeing the installation, maintenance, and repair activities within commercial buildings.

What role does an electrical contractor play? They guarantee the safe and proper functioning of electrical systems across different settings. From light fixtures to complex wiring systems, they shoulder the responsibility of powering our world, one project at a time.

The Scope of Electrical Contractors’ Work

Tasked with a variety of responsibilities, electrical contractors supervise the planning, execution, and completion of electrical projects in the field of project management, often taking on the role of an electrical project manager. They align resources with project requirements and meet the demands of general contractors, collaborate closely with architects, and engineers to develop and implement sustainable electrical systems and ensure appropriate space allocation and routing for electrical components

Apart from project management and system design, electrical contractors also undertake the practical task of:

• Installing and maintaining electrical systems

• Managing cabling, wiring, and repair work

• Ongoing maintenance of electrical infrastructure within various properties

With their comprehensive skill set, inside electrical contractors are indeed the backbone of any electrical project.

Retail and Commercial Applications

Electrical contractors are pivotal in retail and commercial projects. Their responsibilities often extend to supervising the installation, maintenance, and repair of electrical systems including industrial electrical work, working with both low-voltage and high-voltage systems, and collaborating with other contractors as part of a project team.

Prevalent electrical issues in retail and commercial settings that are typically resolved by electrical contractors include:

• Power loss

• Flickering lights

• Tripping circuit breakers

• Old or unprotected wiring

• Sparks

• Problems caused by wear and tear and ageing equipment

From office buildings to large-scale industrial facilities, the expertise of electrical contractors ensures that these establishments can function efficiently and safely.

Types of Electrical Systems Handled by Electrical Contractors

Electrical contractors manage a range of electrical systems, each with its intricacies and requirements. These include high-voltage systems, which require specialised knowledge in engineering, project planning, and maintenance. They also handle low voltage systems, which operate under 50-60 volts and encompass a diverse array of applications, from data and audio/video to fire alarms and HVAC systems.

Another type of electrical system that electrical contractors work with is security systems. They play a crucial role in the design, installation, and maintenance of these systems, which include CCTV and access control. They ensure proper wiring, system configuration, and customisation to meet client requirements, and are committed to ongoing maintenance for the effective long-term operation of these systems.

Navigating the complexities of systems ranging from high-voltage power supplies to low-voltage lighting and security systems, electrical contractors leverage their specialised knowledge and skills to guarantee efficient operation and adherence to safety standards.

High Voltage Systems

The management of high-voltage systems calls for specific skills and expertise. Electrical contractors need to understand how to work with:

• High-voltage electrical distribution equipment

• Electrical conduit

• Electrical systems

• Transformers

These systems can include power supplies, generators, transformers, switchgear, insulators, transmission lines, and electrical cables supported by pylons.

High voltage systems pose considerable risks, and regular maintenance is crucial for identifying potential safety hazards. These systems generally necessitate the use of more expensive cables and have elevated energy levels compared to low-voltage systems. However, the intricacy of these systems necessitates the involvement of specialised electrical contractors who can ensure their safe and efficient operation.

Low Voltage Systems

Contrarily, low voltage systems operate at 50 volts or less, covering a wide range of applications. These include:

• switches

• fuses

• contactors

• leakage protection switches

• relays

They offer a range of benefits for modern buildings and facilities, such as improved safety and security, decreased energy consumption, and improved sustainability.

Electrical contractors manage these systems by installing and maintaining the necessary equipment, including those used in lighting. With their understanding of low-voltage installations, electrical contractors can ensure the efficient and smooth operation of these systems, contributing to the overall functionality of the building or facility.

Security Systems

Security systems are another area of expertise for electrical contractors. These systems include:

• Intelligent surveillance systems

• Access control systems

• CCTV systems

• Intruder alarms

• Perimeter security systems

• Fire detection systems

Electrical contractors ensure the proper installation, electrical wiring, and customisation of these systems to meet client requirements, all as part of their electrical contracting work.

Maintenance and repair of these systems are also part of an electrical contractor’s responsibilities. They conduct regular checks to ensure the systems’ effective operation and are capable of performing necessary repairs. Adherence to standards and regulations, such as the IEE Wiring Regulations, is also crucial.

Leveraging their expertise, electrical contractors guarantee property safety and security through the proficient management of these systems.

The Difference Between Electricians and Electrical Contractors

A common misconception is that electricians and electrical contractors are the same. However, there’s a distinct difference between the two.

An electrician is an individual who has received training and obtained a license to work on electrical equipment and systems. They undertake duties such as:

• constructing and installing electric control panels

• repairing electrical components in machinery

• installing wires, sockets, and switches in residential properties

On the other hand, an electrical contractor is a business entity that employs electricians and provides electrical services to clients. They may take on larger projects such as wiring commercial buildings or installing electrical systems in new construction projects.

While electricians and electrical contractors work closely together, it’s important to understand the difference between the two.

Conversely, electrical contractors are master electricians tasked with providing or supervising projects involving electrical and cabling design, installation, and maintenance. They can work independently as independent contractors or be part of a larger electrical contracting company. Their responsibilities are more extensive and encompass a broader scope of work, signifying a higher level of expertise and authority.

The Path to Becoming an Electrical Contractor

The path to becoming an electrical contractor necessitates substantial training and experience. It starts with an apprenticeship, which provides practical experience and hands-on training in essential techniques. Apprenticeships last for about 3-4 years and involve a blend of classroom instruction and practical on-the-job training.

In the rapidly evolving world of electrical contracting, keeping abreast of the latest industry developments is vital. Continuing education and specialisation can help electrical contractors keep abreast of emerging trends and offer specialised services. Some educational programs and courses that provide opportunities for continuous learning include City & Guilds, Tradeskills4U, and The Electrical Training Course

Aside from education and training, aspiring electrical contractors also need to obtain certifications from accreditation bodies such as NICEIC.

Furthermore, focusing on a specific area, such as residential, commercial, industrial, maintenance, installation, or emergency electrical work, can help electrical contractors deliver top-notch solutions and cultivate enduring client partnerships, hone their skills, provide top-quality solutions, add credibility, and showcase their commitment to excellence in their chosen field.

Apprenticeships and Technical Schools

Apprenticeships form a crucial component of the training for aspiring electrical contractors. They provide practical experience and hands-on training in essential techniques. Apprentices also have the opportunity to earn a starting salary, which in the UK can amount to up to £20,000. Technical skills in electrical work, including electrical installations and technical certificates, as well as soft skills such as communication and problem-solving, are emphasised during the apprenticeship.

Contrarily, technical schools provide a more structured educational route. They provide comprehensive programs that equip students with the knowledge and skills to become electrical contractors. These schools offer courses such as electrician training courses, level 2 Certificates or Diplomas in Electrical Installations, and technical certificates.

Licensing and Certification

Licenses and certifications validate that electrical contractors adhere to industry standards and regulations. They are required to obtain licenses such as the Electrical Installation Licence and the Supply Installation Licence. Additionally, requirements may include having a Master Electrician or employing one.

Certifications, on the other hand, are proof of an electrical contractor’s skill and competence.

Key Skills and Abilities for Successful Electrical Contractors

Various skills and abilities are necessary to excel in the electrical contracting field. Effective communication, for instance, is crucial for clear and productive interactions with general contractors, subcontractors, and clients. This enables efficient project management, accurate planning, improved safety, and exceptional customer service.

In addition to communication skills, attention to detail, physical strength, and business acumen are also important for electrical contractors. Here’s why:

• Attention to detail guarantees precise execution of all aspects of electrical installations and systems, upholding stringent safety standards and providing clients with high-quality work.

• Physical strength is essential due to the demanding nature of the role, which requires significant energy expenditure and stamina.

• Business acumen enables electrical contractors to effectively oversee projects, attract and retain clients, maintain profitability, and cultivate enduring client partnerships.

The Importance of Electrical Contractors in Construction Projects

With their expertise in ensuring the safe and efficient installation of electrical systems, electrical contractors play an indispensable role in construction projects. Their work is crucial in ensuring the functionality and safety of buildings and infrastructure.

They play a pivotal role in crafting, implementing, and upholding the integrity of electrical infrastructures across a spectrum of environments, such as residential homes, corporate offices, and expansive industrial complexes. Their primary objective is to ensure the efficient operation and compliance of these systems with safety and functional standards.

Electrical contractors ensure safety and compliance by:

• Identifying and mitigating potential electrical hazards

• Implementing control measures

• Conducting risk assessments

• Ensuring that all aspects of electrical installations adhere to regulations such as BS 7671:2018 Wiring Regulations and IEE Wiring Regulations

Their expertise ensures that construction projects can proceed smoothly and safely, making them a vital cog in the construction industry.

What Do Electrical Contractors Charge Per Hour?

Several factors influence the variable hourly rates of electrical contractors. These include:

• Experience: Electricians with extensive experience tend to command higher rates.

• Location: Hourly rates are often elevated in urban areas due to increased living expenses and service demand.

• The complexity of the project: Larger and more complex projects may necessitate higher rates due to the intricacy involved.

To determine their hourly rate, electrical contractors calculate their target salary divided by the number of working days per year to obtain their daily rate. They then divide the daily rate by the number of hours they intend to work per day. The final price of the job can also be influenced by the cost of materials and the complexity of the project.

Electrical Contractors Association: What They Do

The Electrical Contractors Association holds a pivotal role in the electrical contracting industry. They collaborate with industry experts to:

• Ensure members can provide secure, dependable, and efficient electrical solutions

• Advocate for the rights and interests of electrical contractors

• Conduct their activities following the law to serve, promote, and protect the interests of electrical contracting.

Members of the Electrical Contractors Association gain access to an extensive range of benefits and services aimed at facilitating work execution, workforce management, and business expansion. These encompass guidance on health and safety, standards, skills, technical matters, employment, networking prospects, resources, and technical support. They also provide a diverse selection of short courses and industry-recognised qualifications through the Certsure online training prospectus.

Summary

We have delved into the world of electrical contractors, exploring their roles and responsibilities, the various electrical systems they manage, and the skills and qualifications they need to excel in their profession. We’ve also looked at their importance in construction projects, their hourly rates, and the role of the Electrical Contractors Association in advocating for their rights and interests.

As we conclude our journey, we are reminded of the indispensable role that electrical contractors play in our daily lives. They are the unsung heroes who keep our homes, offices, and factories powered up, ensuring our safety and comfort. The world of electrical contracting is indeed a complex one, but it’s these complexities that make their role so vital.

Frequently Asked Questions