July 28 2017

Become an Electrician: What is involved?

Have you ever thought of becoming an electrician?

Or are you a bit curious on what it takes to become a qualified electrician in the UK? Well, in this article, we will look at the electrician sector, what the job entails; the qualifications needed, the salary, and finally look at the future outline. But before we begin, I can tell you for free that choosing this career can be very rewarding. In fact, did you know that when fully qualified, you will be amongst the top-earning skillsmen?

The UK has recovered from the economic recession it went through a few years ago. However, this left a large void in the electrician market. Many electricians have retired while the number of younger operatives joining the industry continues to decline, and this is partly blamed on lack of sufficient information. Latest data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) indicates that the number of operatives in 2012 was approximately 184,800. However, the number has declined to less than 179,000 currently. This is despite the improving economy that is seeing more developments that need the services of electricians. Simply put, it’s the right time to join the market.

What Does An Electrician Do?

The following are some of the day-to-day activities you will undertake as an electrician:

– Installation of new wiring in both new as well as old buildings. You need to fully understand the building regulations and standards as stipulated by the oversight authorities.

– Periodic Inspection and Testing Service: This involves testing the hard wiring to make sure it’s in good shape. No loose ends, exposed/frayed wires, and the earthing are okay.

– Portable Appliance Testing (PAT): you will periodically assess sockets, switches, plugs, power strips/extensions, and other portable devices to ensure they are working as designed.

– Electrical appliance testing: Electricians also test electrical appliances like dishwashers, boilers, microwaves, ranges, solar systems, and washing machines among others incase of a fault or as part of general inspection.

– Boiler Installation: You should expect to do lots of boiler installation in homes, schools, offices, hospitals, restaurants, institutions, hotels and many other places. And in the case of damage or change in needs, you will be called to do a repair or upgrade the system.

– Solar Service: Electricians also install, repair and maintain solar power systems. Part of your duty will be to understand the customer needs, come up with the best solution, and also offer advisory service.

What Qualifications Are Needed?

1. Basic Requirements

You first need to get a level 3 diploma that is recognised in the UK. The most common include:

– Electrical Maintenance (Electro-technical Services)

– Installing Electro-technical Systems and & Equipment in Buildings, Structures, and the Environment

– Electrical Installations in Buildings and Structures. This is usually required of people in an Apprenticeship program.

To get these qualifications you can enroll in a fulltime or part-time course after completing high school or while working in the same field or in another profession. Additional fields such as solar installation will require extra training.

2. Get Accredited

After you become qualified, you need to be accredited with a recognised and competent body in the UK. Some of the well-known organisations include:

– ELECSA

– NAPIT

– NICEIC

The role of these bodies is to test, evaluate and certify contractors. The certificates show that the contractor has the minimum required qualification and skill and is also authorised to provide the listed services.

What is the Expected Salary?

After acquiring the minimum qualification that allows you to work as an electrician, you should expect a starting salary of £18,000. This is a decent amount especially for newbies and when compared to other skilled trades. The amount will increase as you gain more knowledge and become more competent. The latest data reveals that a qualified electrician takes home an average salary of £28,000 per annum. The most qualified who mainly comprise of self-employed professionals will earn as much as of £40,000 annually.

How is the Future Outlook like?

Looking at the above figures, we can acknowledge that the pay or salary is quiet impressive. An entry salary of £18,000 per annum isn’t bad. And after gaining some knowledge and exposure, you will soon be able to earn between £27 and £40K annually. What makes it more exciting is that you can become an independent contractor and this increases your income potential. According to manpower, the demand for electricians will continue to rise in the coming years. The UK will need at least 150,000 new electricians in the next decade to be able to meet its demand.

Conclusion

Going by the facts, becoming an electrician can be very rewarding. The starting salary isn’t bad, the qualifications can easily be attained, you can increase your skills while working, and the industry’s future looks bright. Nonetheless, like any other vocation, the key to earning a good salary is by offering topnotch services, being dedicated, always improving your skills, delivering exceptional customer, and getting certified.

A name that comes to mind when talking about experienced, well-known and established firms is Electricians Portsmouth. This company is regarded as a leader in this sector and has a presence in Portsmouth and beyond. It’s revered for offering quality service, using high-grade products, a wide range of services, and being easily reachable. To contact them, simply visit their website, call them, or engage them on social media. Many customers and clients also love the fact that they give free quotes.