Construction Maintenance Electrician

Residential, Commercial, Or Industrial: Which Path Will You Take After Electrician Training?

June 22, 2023

A residential electrician at work after electrician training

Many people who enrol in the Construction Maintenance Electrician Diploma Program at North American Trade Schools (NATS) already have a clear idea of where they would like to work before they even register for the program. Conversely, some others prefer to go with the flow and see what piques their interest along the way.

Irrespective of which side of the spectrum you fall in, the question of which path you’ll take after electrician training is an important one since there are typically differences between residential, commercial, and industrial electricians. 

Ultimately, the decision should come down to which career path best suits your interests and career goals. To help narrow your focus leading to an informed decision, we’ll explore each of these career paths in this blog. 

Residential Work After Electrician Training

Residential electrical work focuses on homes, apartments, and other residential properties. On a typical day as a residential electrician after your Electrician training, you’ll be responsible for installing, repairing, and maintaining electrical systems in these settings. This often involves tasks like wiring new homes, troubleshooting electrical issues, or upgrading outdated systems. One of the advantages of working in the residential sector is the opportunity to work directly with homeowners, helping them improve their living spaces and ensuring their electrical systems are safe and efficient. Residential work also offers more regular working hours, allowing for a better work-life balance.

Commercial Work After Electrician Training

On the other hand, commercial electricians deal with electrical systems in non-residential buildings such as offices, retail stores, and public facilities. Commercial work often involves large-scale projects, such as installing electrical systems in new commercial buildings or upgrading existing systems to meet code requirements. Typically, commercial electricians execute tasks like setting up lighting systems, installing security systems, or performing routine maintenance. Commercial work can be fast-paced and diverse, providing opportunities to work on a wide range of projects and collaborate with other professionals in the construction industry.

A commercial electrician at work after electrician training
Commercial electricians work in non-residential settings after electrician training.

Industrial Work After Electrician Training

Industrial electrical work takes you into the realm of factories, power plants, and other industrial settings. In this sector, you’ll work with complex electrical systems that power heavy machinery, production lines, and industrial processes. Industrial electricians often use high-voltage systems, motors, control panels, and automation technologies. This type of work requires a strong understanding of industrial equipment and safety protocols. Industrial electricians may troubleshoot electrical issues under time pressure to minimize downtime and keep production running smoothly. Working in the industrial sector can be challenging but highly rewarding, with opportunities for career advancement and specialized training.

An industrial electrician at work after electrician training
Industrial electricians work with complex electrical systems after electrician training.

Which Path is Right For You?

When deciding which path to take after electrician training, it’s important to consider your personal interests, skills, and long-term goals. Do you enjoy working in various settings or prefer the stability of residential work? Are you intrigued by the complexity of industrial electrical systems or drawn to the fast-paced nature of commercial projects? It’s also worth noting that you can start in one sector and transition to another later in your career. Many electricians gain experience in one area before exploring new opportunities. Regardless of your chosen path, ongoing learning and professional development are essential. 

If you’re interested in obtaining a more detailed understanding of each of these paths and the processes associated with them, consider registering for the Construction and Maintenance Electrician diploma Program at NATS.

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Construction Maintenance Electrician

3 Rough-In Tips to Remember After Electrician Training

June 07, 2023

An electrician working in a residential apartment after electrician training

Rough-in wiring involves installing electrical wiring, boxes, and conduit in commercial or residential buildings before the walls and ceilings are completed. It’s a necessary process that sets the foundation for a safe and efficient electrical system in any building. 

Regardless of the type of project being executed, it’s important to get the rough-in phase done right the first time. Ripping up the drywall to fix issues down the line can be messy, not to mention expensive. It’s also essential to be careful with this task to avoid the risk of electric and fire hazards. Attention to detail and adherence to electrical codes are necessary for a high-quality installation.

After completing your Construction & Maintenance Electrician Pre-Apprenticeship diploma program, you’ll often be tasked with projects like these. Here, we’ll discuss three practical rough-in tips that will prove invaluable throughout your career. Incorporating these tips into your work routine after completing electrician training will help you build a reputation for excellence and contribute to electrical systems’ safe and efficient operation.

1. Plan and Prepare Adequately After Electrician College

Before starting any rough-in work, careful planning is crucial. Begin by reviewing the electrical plans and blueprints for the building to understand the project scope clearly. Take note of the locations for outlets, switches, light fixtures, and other electrical components.

Next, ensure you have all the tools and materials readily available. This includes wires, cables, conduits, junction boxes, and fasteners. Organize your supplies to avoid unnecessary delays during the installation process.

Additionally, before commencing any rough-in work, shut off the power supply to the area where you will be working. As taught in Electrician training, safety should always be the top priority. Taking this precautionary measure will prevent accidents or electrical shocks.

2. Get Accurate Measurements and Layouts

During the rough-in phase, precision is essential. Accurate measurements and layouts ensure that electrical components are installed correctly, avoiding future problems or the need for costly rework. Students who undergo their Electrician diploma program know this process is often emphasized during their training.

A male electrician measuring his work area after electrician training
Get accurate measurements using insights from your electrician training.

Mark the locations of electrical boxes on the walls and ceilings according to the provided blueprints, then use a tape measure and level to ensure the measurements are precise. Consider any obstructions, such as studs or pipes that may affect the placement of the boxes. Similarly, when running conduit or cables, maintain consistent spacing and alignment. This will facilitate future wire-pulling and make identifying and troubleshooting issues easier if necessary.

Further, pay close attention to electrical code requirements, including minimum clearance distances around boxes and conduits, and remember compliance with electrical codes is crucial for safety and ensures the installation meets industry standards.

3. Label and Document Each Step

The rough-in phase is the foundation for the entire electrical system, and documenting your work is invaluable for future reference. As you install wires, cables, and conduits, take the time to label them appropriately by using tags or markers to indicate the purpose and destination of each cable or wire. This makes it easier for future electricians or technicians to identify and troubleshoot issues.

A male electrician writing on a notepad during electrician training
As you discovered during electrician training, document each step for future reference.

You should also create a comprehensive documentation system that includes diagrams, plans, and any modifications made during the rough-in process. This information will be invaluable for future maintenance, repairs, or upgrades. Remember to photograph the rough-in work before the walls and ceilings are closed. These photos can provide evidence of a job well done and a visual reference if needed.

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Construction Maintenance Electrician

Networking Tips For An Apprentice After Electrician Training

February 28, 2023

Networking is important no matter which industry you are in, because it allows you to form mutually beneficial relationships with other professionals in your field. Once you become an apprentice after electrician training, you’ll be looking to grow in the trade – honing your skills and gaining access to professional opportunities. Networking is a great way to meet and stay in touch with seasoned industry experts and those just starting out like you. Having a broad network can open many doors for you professionally, helping you stay on top of new opportunities.

Read on for some great networking tips to keep in mind during your training and throughout your career.

Partake in Industry Events and Conferences

Industry events and conferences are great ways to network with people in your industry. While larger conferences do not necessarily happen often, it is important to attend them because you will have the opportunity to learn from and discuss with other electricians and apprentices, and create beneficial relationships.

A great way to learn about these conferences and events is either online or through your instructors during your Electrician diploma. Your instructors are experienced in the industry and have already built their network over several years. They are great starting points for discovering these events and conferences. Online, you will find many different events, and the beauty of these is that they occur digitally and can be attended no matter where you are.

After your electrician diploma, try to attend events and conferences to expand your network.

Use Social Media to the Fullest Extent

Social media is a great networking tool that you can utilize at any point, and it will be beneficial for years to come. There are two primary social media networks you should be using to network during and after Electrician training these are LinkedIn and Facebook. LinkedIn is great for forming connections with qualified electricians or apprentices. You never know when someone who you interacted with on social media may be able to present an opportunity to you, and vice versa. A great starting point is your instructors and fellow apprentices.

Facebook is a little different in that it would be more advisable to join a local electrician group instead of adding people as friends. This allows you to interact with people in the same career as you and enables knowledge sharing. There may also be opportunities for apprentice electricians posted on these groups. The key is to maintain consistent contact. Speak to instructors and fellow apprentices about electrician groups, otherwise, a Facebook search can also put you in the right direction.

Use social media to expand your network as an apprentice after electrician training and open up new opportunities.

Keep in Contact With People You Meet in Electrician Training

During electrician training, you will interact with your instructors and classmates, so try to develop relationships that will help you to expand your network. Keep in contact with them after you have completed your training, because your instructors can introduce you to people in the industry, since they’re extremely knowledgeable and have contacts there. Your peers may also find other opportunities that they can share with you. It takes time and effort, but having a great network will reap its benefits in the longrun.

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Construction Maintenance Electrician

Interesting Career Paths to Explore After Construction College

January 25, 2023

The construction industry consists of individuals with varying skills. All of these skilled workers play a role in making sure that construction projects meet the specifications outlined in their planning. A good construction program will prepare you to meet the needs of the industry, helping you thrive in your career.

During the construction program at NATS, you will learn the skills to fulfil several electrical industry aspects successfully. You will also learn residential wiring, code interpretation, conduit bending, electrical motor theory, service installation, print reading, and electronic controls. These are skills you can apply to various career paths upon completing the program. Read on to learn more about the careers that will be available to you after your training.

Become an Electrical Technician 

An electrical technician is a skilled worker that focuses on installing wiring, ensuring that the wiring works correctly, and installing circuits and outlets to power electronics, lights and other equipment in a building. Professionals in this career will need to be able to read electrical blueprints and follow electrical codes and regulations. During construction training, you will learn these skills through practical, hands-on training. For instance, you’ll complete practical, real-world projects installing wiring similar to what you will see when working as an electrical technician. 

Becoming an electrical technician will create work opportunities for you in both residential and commercial construction. You will also be able to work in a company’s maintenance department and see to the electrical needs of the company as they happen.

Hands-on construction training helps prepare you for the electrical and construction industry.

Become an Electrical Service Technician After Construction College 

As an electrical service technician, you will specialize in ensuring that electrical equipment and systems remain operational and function as they need to. You may be required to modify systems or repair them completely. 

During construction college, you will learn different wiring methods for conduits, tubing and bends. This will help you rewire electrical devices where the wiring has corroded or is no longer functional. You will also learn how to apply the Canadian Electrical Code (CEC), ensuring that repairs and rewiring are done to the standard required. 

Become an Electrician by Continuing Your Apprenticeship 

As a graduate earning your Construction and Maintenance Electrician Diploma, you will be an apprentice electrician. This will allow you to continue studying the electrical trade to become a qualified electrician. While becoming a qualified electrician may be longer, it is worth considering. This is primarily due to the demand for qualified electricians in Canada. Job prospects for electricians in Canada are good and look to remain this way for years to come. Becoming a fully qualified electrician will also open other opportunities, including starting your own business.

The training you receive during your diploma program will equip you with the foundations of being an electrician. You will learn electrical theory and principles and how to apply them practically. You will also learn the foundations of what an electrician needs to know, such as wiring, the CEC, and safety principles, ensuring you are well-equipped to continue your studies to become a fully-qualified electrician.

Becoming an electrician is a great career path to consider after construction college.

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Construction Maintenance Electrician

Workmanship Best Practices to Remember After Electrician Training

December 06, 2022

Once you grasp the basics of electrical theory in training, it’ll be time to put your knowledge to work during your electrical apprenticeship. This will be an important part of your career development, providing you with the perfect opportunity to refine your practical skills, make professional connections, and earn a living all at once. Your apprenticeship is one big learning experience, and establishing good workmanship habits is one of the most important lessons you’ll learn. 

As an electrician, good workmanship reflects positively on you and the company you are with. Excellent workmanship ensures public safety and simplifies future repairs. Referring to checklists, being conscious of wire sizing, and doing your best to complete your work in an orderly fashion will go a long way. Let’s dive deeper into some of the strategies you can use during your apprenticeship and your career!

1. Refer to a Checklist After Electrician Training

When you start out on the job, you’ll find there are many steps to the electrical wiring process, some of which can be a challenge to remember. In that case, it’s important to ensure that you’ve taken all the necessary steps to maximize the safety of your work–for your own sake and that of the public.

When you’re fresh out of electrician training, it’s an excellent idea to refer to a checklist when you start completing tasks independently. This will help you remember all of the essential steps to installing or wiring electrical systems. This checklist could be provided by your workplace or your training institution, or you can even use course material to create your own checklist, which one of your higher management can approve.

Checklists will help you remember the important steps to electrical wiring after electrician college.

2. Always Be Conscious of Wire Sizing

Proper wire sizing is crucial to quality workmanship as it determines the safety, reliability, and consistency of an electrical system. For example, overloaded cables are one of the most common causes of electrical malfunction. This occurs when too much electrical current passes through–causing wires to overheat, melt, and pose a fire hazard. On the other hand, cables that are too big are a waste of money for clients and your company. 

After electrician college, do your best to ensure that you’re accurately determining the electrical load for the systems you’re working on in order to choose your cable size correctly. Don’t hesitate to ask for second opinions until you trust your own judgment; safety should be your chief concern with cable size.

For safety reasons, always be conscious of cable sizes after electrician training.

3. Keep Your Work Neat and Tidy 

When you install and repair electrical systems, focus on keeping the finished work clean and tidy. Not only does it look better and leave a positive impression on you and your company, but on a practical level, it makes future repairs much easier, since there are fewer tangles, twisting, knots, and general confusion. The best way to ensure that your work remains neat and tidy is to take all the time you need to complete your work correctly and in an orderly manner. 

Approaching your work while you maintain a clear mind will also be helpful. 

The Construction and Maintenance Electrician Pre-Apprenticeship Diploma Program is an excellent place to start your electrical career. At NATS, you’ll gain the skills you need to apply quality workmanship to residential wiring, service installation, code interpretation, conduit bending, print reading, and electrical theory. 

Ready to earn your electrician diploma

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Construction Maintenance Electrician

How to Succeed in Your Electrical Apprenticeship After Electrician Training

November 15, 2022

The road to becoming a licensed electrician is a rewarding one. First, you’ll learn the fundamentals of the trade in a certified training program. Once you’ve learned the basics, you’ll have the opportunity to earn money as you learn during your apprenticeship. This is a great time to hone your skills, learn the electrical codes in your area, purchase the right tools, learn how to use them properly, and make meaningful professional connections. Let’s explore some effective ways to succeed during your electrical apprenticeship!

Ask Questions to Absorb as Much Information as You Can

You may need to approach your apprenticeship differently than you might other positions. While being able to earn an income is a huge perk of an electrical apprenticeship, your main priority should be to learn and practice your skills. Whenever you can, try to absorb new information. Listen attentively when others offer feedback and try to remember it. Keep your eyes open when licensed electricians complete tasks.

As you watch, look for parts of the process that don’t make sense to you and ask clarifying questions. As your apprenticeship progresses, try to answer some of your own questions using your prior knowledge and experience. That being said, it’s always a good idea to double-check when you’re unsure. Remember that mistakes are a normal part of the learning process, and try your best to turn yours into valuable learning experiences after electrician college!

Don’t hesitate to ask questions after electrician training.

Understand the National Electrical Code 

This one may take some time. The Canadian Electrical Code is a long document published by the Canadian Standards Association. It’s full of information about how to safely install and maintain electrical equipment in Canada. It’s a great idea to make sure you have access to a copy that you can refer to when you need extra clarification. A clear understanding of electrical standards will help you stay safe on the job, as well as protect the safety of clients. Have faith in the learning process! With time, you’ll become familiar with the electrical code in your area. Keep in mind that the Canadian Electrical Code is revised every three years, so be sure to stay up to date. 

The Canadian Electrical Code will be a lifeline after electrician college.

Master the Art of Networking After Electrician Training

During and after electrician training, networking should be a priority. Your success in most fields will depend heavily on your ability to build meaningful relationships in the workplace–in addition to your skill and experience level, of course. On the job, try to be personable and open to meeting new people. You have no idea what conversation could lead to a major opportunity for career advancement, so always put your best foot forward and don’t hesitate to share your contact information when you’ve established a connection. 

Your electrical apprenticeship will be an exciting phase of your career. The Construction & Maintenance Electrician Pre-Apprenticeship Diploma Program can help you find success as you learn and earn. Receive hands-on training on electricity principles and applications, blueprint reading, framing, and more!

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Construction Maintenance Electrician

Residential vs. Commercial Wiring: A Guide for Those Considering Electrician Training

October 11, 2022

Do you want to launch a career as an electrician? If so, you’re in for a dynamic, interesting, and lucrative work life that will give you the opportunity to collect many valuable experiences and use them to seek higher positions. During your electrical apprenticeship, you’ll likely have the opportunity to explore both residential and commercial wiring. This will allow you to decide on your area of focus down the line as a licensed electrician. 

To get you thinking, here are some of the key differences between residential and commercial wiring and what to keep in mind when doing both types of work. 

Different Materials Are Used for Residential and Commercial Wiring 

One notable difference between commercial and residential wiring is the material the wires are made from. Residential wires, which are typically hidden behind drywall, are only covered with a thin PVC sheath. Commercial wiring typically has a greater amount of insulation in order to withstand higher temperatures. The wires are usually protected by a thick sheath of Nylon, a tough thermoplastic that makes an excellent electrical insulator. In addition, commercial wires are held to higher codes than residential wiring, so higher-grade materials are needed. 

A Conduit Is Always Used For Commercial Wiring

An electrical conduit is a metal or plastic tube through which an electrical wire is run; the primary purpose is to protect the wires. After electrician college, you’ll find that the use of conduits depends on local codes. That being said, conduits are generally considered a must in commercial settings. They are used for residential applications as well, primarily when the wire remains exposed as they would be in an unfinished basement, crawlspace, or attic.  

A conduit will always be used in commercial settings.

After Electrician Training, Load Capacity Will Differ For Commercial and Residential Wiring 

Electrical load capacity refers to the total amount of power provided by a building’s main source of power. In general, a commercial setting will have a higher load capacity than a residence. Usually, a single-phase circuit of 120 volts is used. Single-phase systems require only two lines–one for power to enter and a return path. For appliances like refrigerators, washers, and dryers, two-phase systems of 240 volts are used. 

When you work in a commercial setting after electrician training, you’ll find that three-phase systems are used, which are comprised of two 120-volt legs and a wider 208-volt leg. This system reduces the load on each individual line while maximizing the overall output of an electrical circuit. 

When you’ve completed electrician training, you’ll deal with different load capacities for residential and commercial wiring systems.

Ease of Access Differs Depending on the Type of Wiring 

With residential wiring, safety and aesthetics are the main priorities. For this reason, wires are tucked away and out of sight. This makes residential electrical lines a bit less convenient to access. Commercial wiring on the other hand does not require as much consideration for aesthetics, so they’re often easy to access. 

The Construction Maintenance Electrician program at NATS will teach you the ins and outs of residential, commercial, and industrial electricity. In addition to electrical theory, you will leave the program with well-rounded practical skills in code interpretation, circuit building, and print reading. As a result, you will be ready to take up an electrical apprenticeship confidently and competently. 

Ready to start electrician school

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Construction Maintenance Electrician

5 Opportunities For Advancement After Construction College

October 04, 2022

Learning the core principles of electricity and construction is a great way to begin your career. However, you may be wondering exactly how you might continue to advance your career after graduation. Work is often more satisfying when there are opportunities to progress and seek higher, more lucrative positions for yourself. Luckily, you have many options at your disposal when you train as a Construction and Maintenance Electrician with the North American Trade Schools. Below, explore five great opportunities for advancement available with the skill set you’ll gain during your program.

1. Start an Electrical Apprenticeship to Open Doors in Your Career 

Electrical construction is a lucrative and interesting field with many opportunities for career advancement and many different work environments to choose from. To open doors in this field, you should first enrol in an electrical apprenticeship after construction college with NATS. This way, you’ll gain all of the hands-on experience you’ll need to wire industrial or residential buildings safely and effectively. When looking for an apprenticeship, do your research and select a reputable company that consistently leaves customers satisfied. You’ll want to learn how to be an outstanding electrician first in order to continue advancing your career.

After construction college, you can start an apprenticeship which can open the door to many career opportunities.

2. Become a Journeyman Electrician After Construction College 

A journeyman electrician is qualified to work on all sorts of electrical systems. The job includes installing, repairing, and maintaining these systems within various settings. After completing your training, taking a four-year apprenticeship, and completing 6000 hours of technical, on-the-job training, you’ll be equipped with the skills for this career. The experience you gain in this position will prepare you to become a master electrician, which will significantly increase opportunities for growth and earning potential. 

3. Consider Becoming an Electrical Inspector 

After you’ve been working in the field for some time and have developed a degree of expertise, you might consider becoming an electrical inspector. The position involves inspecting generating systems, appliances, electrical wiring, and motors. You’ll work primarily on construction sites and in homes, ensuring that electrical systems are up to code and in good working condition. An electrical inspection may also involve making repairs to bring systems up to standard. 

Electrical inspection is a great career for construction school graduates.

4. Are you a Good Teacher? Become an Electrical Instructor 

Once you’ve gained confidence in your skills after graduating from construction school, instructing is a great option. This career path is very rewarding as you can use your knowledge and experience to help others pursue a career they’re passionate about. Responsibilities include planning and preparing learning materials, teaching the core principles of electrical technology, and adapting teaching methods to meet the needs of each student. In some cases, you may be asked to contribute to program planning. 

5. Work For Yourself as a General Contractor 

Have you always wanted to try your hand at business? You’re certainly not alone. Entrepreneurship can be extremely lucrative and fun, especially in the construction sector! Once you’ve become a master electrician, which involves three years of field experience and passing a licensing exam, you can run your own electrical company and enjoy the freedom and limitless possibilities that come with entrepreneurship. General contractors have the opportunity to work in industrial, commercial, and residential environments, depending on what clients they cater to.

Ready to start your path in one of the construction careers

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Construction Maintenance Electrician

5 Soft Skills Necessary for Success in Construction Careers

August 23, 2022

Construction careers are multi-faceted and they often require workers to wear multiple hats and carry out a wide variety of duties. In addition to practical construction skills, there are several soft skills that can boost your ability to reach your career goals. The soft skills you’ll develop in training and on the job sites will help you create the right mindset to face workplace challenges head-on. Let’s explore a few of them! 

1. Effective Communication Skills Are a Must for Efficiency on Site

Effective communication is the key to a productive construction site. It involves being able to listen, understand, and express yourself accurately and clearly. There are several types of communication that every aspiring construction worker should master. Not only will you need to have the skills to coordinate with your co-workers but also with clients and different people across the supply chain. Each type of interaction requires you to communicate differently.   

2. Use Your Knowledge from Construction College to Develop Problem-Solving Skills 

Throughout your construction career, you’ll likely be required to come up with solutions to pressing issues on the spot. This certainly takes practice, but with the right training from a construction college and some experience under your belt, you will have the knowledge you need to quickly weigh the pros and cons of different solutions and make the right decision for the issue at hand. Want to develop a mind for problem-solving? You’ll have the chance to exercise these skills in our Construction & Maintenance Electrician Pre-Apprenticeship program where you’ll learn to come up with different home wiring solutions, how to interpret codes, analyze and repair machine controls, and more. 

Problem-solving and strategizing skills will help you succeed after construction school.

3. Mental Clarity and Focus With Stress-Management Skills 

In a construction career, there will be a lot going on around you and often many different tasks will demand your attention at once. Though this is the perfect work environment for someone who likes a dynamic, hands-on work life, you’ll certainly experience some stress from time to time. Your ability to manage it will determine the extent to which you can perform your duties with mental clarity and focus. You can practice stress management throughout construction school by managing your time well, practicing self-care, and asking for help when you need it. 

4. Be Flexible and Adapt to Work Through Inevitable Setbacks

As we discussed, construction sites can get very busy and on any given project, there’s a possibility that something will go wrong–or at least not exactly according to plan. In situations like these, it’s important to be able to quickly adapt to new circumstances and work with whatever you have at your disposal to get the job done. Your team will certainly appreciate your ability to switch gears and prioritize tasks sensibly when setbacks arise and you’re prepared to relocate when needed. 

After construction college, your ability to adapt to new situations will help you overcome challenges.

5. Have Commercial Awareness to Ensure Profitability 

Whether you plan to run your own construction business or be a valued team member, understanding commercial demand will help you produce results that clients are happy with. In addition, commercial awareness helps you adapt to market trends and world events that may affect the construction industry. One way to improve in this area is to regularly keep up with construction news. In addition, by getting trained with us in both the classroom and in practical labs, you will learn everything you need to perform construction work up to an industry standard. 

Ready to start training in one of the construction careers

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Construction Maintenance Electrician

5 Electrical Safety Tips to Follow After Electrician School

August 11, 2022

Electricians encounter potential safety hazards every day. While working with the voltages and currents within electrical systems always involves a risk, it’s important to know how to reduce as much risk as possible. With the right safety practices and protocols in place, electricians are able to stay safe on the job, ensuring long and successful careers. 

At the North American Trade Schools, students in the Construction and Maintenance Electrician Program not only build practical skills in wiring, installation and more, but they also receive comprehensive safety training which they’ll be able to apply in their future careers. Below, get a head start on your electrical safety knowledge by discovering five key electrical safety tips to follow.

1. Wear the Right Protective Equipment 

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is key for an electrician. With the right PPE, those with electrician training can avoid the risk of shock or other dangers associated with working with electrical equipment. Typically, proper safety gear includes insulated gloves, long sleeves, hard hats, goggles, line hoses and blankets. Depending on the job, more gear may be required to ensure adequate protection. As an extra precaution, make sure to inspect your gear before starting any job to ensure that it’s not damaged.

After electrician training, make sure to wear proper safety gear at all times.

2. Keep the Electrical Code in Mind

As a student at NATS, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the Canadian Electrical Code (CEC). The CEC was developed to outline the safety risks involved in the wiring, installation and maintenance of electrical systems. It includes information about the proper safety protocols and best practices to follow while on the job. As an electrician, it’s important to maintain a working knowledge of the CEC, as this will help you to avoid hazardous situations and respond to risks safely. 

3. Know What to Do in Wet Conditions With Electrician Training

Damp or wet areas are a hazard for electricians, as water contact increases the risk of electrocution. After electrician school, it’s important to take the proper steps in preventing electrocution as a result of water. When working in any wet area, it’s crucial to install Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) before beginning your project. When cords and equipment are plugged into GFCI-protected receptacles, the risk of electrocution is minimized as the circuit is interrupted before making contact with your body. 

4. Maintain Your Electrical Tools

Damaged tools are an accident waiting to happen. The tools electricians use (trigger locks, power tools, extension cords and more) are designed to maximize safety, but when these tools are in need of repair, they can pose a serious safety hazard. Before beginning any job, make sure to examine your tools for signs of wear and tear, fraying or cracking. If any tools show signs of damage, it’s important to remove them from the site and get them repaired immediately.

Ensure that your tools are not damaged before beginning any project.

5. Remember Lockout and Tagout

Lockout and tagout procedures are critical for any electrical job. During the program at NATS, you’ll receive training in lockout and tagout, which involves de-energizing any equipment before the repair process. All electrical equipment, including hanging wires, metallic covering and other components, must be de-energized in order to avoid electrocution. Lockout and tagout are performed by turning off the current at the switch box and keeping it off by padlocking the switch in place. Before any electrical job, don’t forget to complete this step.

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