Electricity is an essential part of our daily lives, both at home and on the job. However, it can be dangerous if not properly used. Robson Forensic frequently investigates cases involving exposure to overhead and underground electrical supply lines. This article will provide a brief overview of the basics of electrical safety.
Education Requirements
Electrical engineers are behind the technologies that power everything from batteries to cell phones to computers. In the United States, they earned a median annual salary of $103,390 in May 2020. In order to become an electrical engineer, a bachelor’s degree in engineering is required. High school students can prepare for college-level studies by taking drafting, physics and math classes. Those who want to pursue a career in the field should also consider taking engineering-related summer internships.
After completing their bachelor’s degree, electrical engineers need to obtain their professional engineer license (P.E). Licensing requirements vary by state, but most states require that an engineer complete a minimum of four years of work experience after earning a bachelor’s degree to qualify for the exam. Those who want to work in areas where their design could impact the public need to pass a six-hour Fundamentals of Engineering exam and an eight-hour Principles and Practice of Engineering exam.
In addition to meeting their state’s licensing requirements, electrical engineers need to take continuing education units (CEUs) each year in order to keep their engineering license active. While the specific CEUs that engineers need to take depend on their state’s licensing requirements, many of the courses are technical in nature and can help them maintain their skills and knowledge. Engineers can find a variety of options for CEUs from online universities, colleges and professional engineering societies.
Training Requirements
In addition to classroom courses, many employers provide on-the-job training for Electrician This is often a good way to find out whether you enjoy the work and are ready for a career as an electrical worker. However, this method is not suitable for all people and you should check with your employer to learn about the specific requirements of the job.
There are industry standards that managers need to adhere to when managing a workforce that works with electricity. These are outlined in the NFPA 70E standard, and failure to comply can lead to costly fines for companies that ignore them. Managers should look for a reputable and experienced training provider to train their employees, and they might also want to consider consulting engineering firms that can perform site-specific electrical hazard assessments and help them develop or revise the safety programs on which NFPA 70E training is based.
For University personnel who must follow NFPA 70E guidelines for working on or near exposed energized equipment, this class will cover electrical safety-related work practices and personal protective equipment requirements. It will include group case studies and discussions about preparing for work, obtaining an energized work permit and reducing potential for exposure to arc flash. Retraining is required every three years. However, retraining may be needed sooner if supervision or annual inspections indicate that an employee is not using the safety-related work practices prescribed by NFPA 70E.