• • • TRAINING • • • WHY ELECTRICIANS SHOULD TRAIN


THROUGHOUT THEIR CAREER Mark Crook, managing director of one of training providers Technique Learning Solutions, discusses the benefits of becoming a qualified Electric Vehicle Charg- ing Equipment Installer, the different schemes and grants available, and how electricians can become qualified, OZEV-approved installers


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It takes a lot of training and experience to become a fully qualified electrician, but this doesn’t necessarily mean you’re set for the rest of your career! The industry is ever-changing and electricians should train throughout their careers to stay up to date and competent.


INDUSTRY CHANGES New regulations and legislations are introduced into the industry often. Many bring changes that electri- cians need to know to carry out work safely. For exam- ple, in 2020 new regulations were brought into place regarding electrical safety standards in rented accom- modation. These regulations require landlords to:


will help meet this demand.


As well as regulations being introduced, they also change – electricians need to know and understand any changes. In 2018, the 17th Edition Wiring Regula- tions was replaced by the 18th Edition – this brought many changes, including a brand new regulation (411.3.4.)


Although an 18th Edition qualification isn’t a re- quirement, it’s industry-recognised and often sought after by employers and customers. This qualification can also protect electricians if they’re ever in legal trouble due to their work. If you’ve previously done a 17th Edition course, it’s important to complete training on the 18th Edition to ensure additions and


commercial, and industrial electric vehicle charging equipment installation course is ideal! Candidates must be able to do the following before doing this course: ●


●


Install and terminate pvc/pvc cable (twin and earth) and steel wire armoured cable; and


Carry out an initial verification (Inspection and Test- ing) on an electrical installation.


Many electricians will know how to do the above, making the path to becoming an EVC installer the perfect next step in their career.


UPSKILLING VS HIRING If you’re an employer, it may be worth upskilling ex- isting staff rather than hiring new staff to bridge any skills gap that has formed due to new regulations. Retraining staff allows them to stay up to date with changes and offer brand new services. There are a range of benefits to upskilling existing staff: ●


Saves time and money: Paying for staff to do a train- ing course is cheaper than hiring a new employee! And with current workers already having skills and experience within the company, it may be quicker to upskill them.


●


Good for staff retention, boosting morale, and at- tracting employees: Upskilling staff shows that the company is invested in its workforce and wants to help develop their skills.


● ●


Ensure national standards for electrical safety are met;


Have electrical installations within properties in- spected and tested by a qualified, competent elec- trician every five years;


●


Supply a copy of the electrical report to new tenants before moving in, or existing tenants within 28 days of the test. A copy must also be provided to the local authority if requested. Landlords must retain a copy to give to the next person conducting the inspection and testing;


● ●


If the report states further work is required, this must be completed within 28 days;


Provide written confirmation of completed work to tenants and local authority within 28 days of com- pletion.


Electricians qualified to conduct Inspection and Testing are needed to do the above. Therefore, com- pleting a training course in Inspection and Testing


changes are understood - this would mean complet- ing an update course.


The 18th Edition will be replaced by the 19th Edition next year.


MEETING DEMAND


Many industry changes create a demand for certain skills, meaning electricians with a particular skill set or qualifications are actively sought and have many opportunities. A recent example is the demand for Electric Vehicle Charging Equipment Installers – there are more electric vehicles (EVs) on our roads, but there are concerns regarding the lack of EV charge points. There’s been a push for more charge points, and this has created a higher demand for installers as EVC equipment can only be installed by competent and qualified electricians. Training is required to become qualified to install EVC equipment – the level three award in domestic,


34 ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING • SEPTEMBER 2021


FURTHER TRAINING It can be difficult to know where to gain additional training once you’re already qualified and not an ap- prentice. Luckily, there are training providers across the UK with many training courses aimed at different experience levels.


It can be hard deciding which training provider to go with - it’s important to consider aspects such as: ●


How practical are the courses?


What qualifications are achieved? Overall, electricians should continue to train throughout their careers to stay relevant and reach more potential customers. Continuing training also ensures they are safe and competent. Employers should offer their staff the opportunity to upskill to bridge any skills gaps, keep their staff happy, and earn more.


● Who are their partners and accreditations? ● What do people say about them on Course Check? ● Can they provide bespoke training? ● Who teaches the courses? ●


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