What is the EAS?

The Electrotechnical Assessment Specification (EAS) is a framework used by Competent Person Scheme (CPS) providers, such as NICEIC and NAPIT, to assess the suitability of candidates for registration as a Qualified Supervisor (QS). The EAS ensures that individuals meet the necessary technical standards and possess the required competencies to perform electrical work safely and effectively.

Key Updates to the EAS

One of the most notable updates involves the Mandatory Technical Competence (MTC) requirements for specific installations. From October 2026, it will be mandatory for those registered with CPS to have a qualification listed in the EAS for the following areas:

1. Electrical vehicle charging equipment
2. Solar photovoltaic systems
3. Electric energy storage systems
4. Micro wind turbines

While this may seem like a reasonable timeframe, it poses a significant challenge for many electricians currently operating within these schemes. Many may not meet the prerequisites for these qualifications, adding pressure to get qualified through options like the Experienced Worker Assessments.

Voluntary Early Adoption

The EAS also states that Certification and Registration Bodies may voluntarily adopt these changes before the specified implementation dates. This means that some bodies might start enforcing these requirements sooner, so it’s essential to stay informed and prepared.

Why These EAS Changes Matter

The primary purpose of these updates is to enhance the safety and quality of electrical installations. By ensuring that all electricians have the necessary qualifications, the EAS aims to reduce the risk of faulty installations and improve overall industry standards. For electricians, this means a greater emphasis on continuous professional development and staying up-to-date with the latest industry requirements.

What Should Electricians Do?

For those who may not currently meet the new qualification requirements, it’s crucial to start planning now. Consider the following steps:

Review the EAS Qualifications Guide: Understand the specific qualifications required for your area of work.

Explore Training Options: Look into certified courses and training programmes that can help you meet the new requirements.

Consider Experienced Worker Assessments: If you have significant experience but lack formal qualifications, this route can help you get certified.

Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with any further updates from the EAS committee and your CPS provider.

By taking proactive steps now, electricians can ensure they remain compliant and continue to provide high-quality, safe electrical installations.

The post Future-Proof Your Electrical Skills: Understanding the Latest EAS Updates appeared first on Tradeskills4u.

What is an Electrical Safety Certificate in the UK?

An electrical safety certificate is a document that confirms a property’s electrical installations comply with the safety standards set out in UK law. In most cases, homeowners and landlords are required to have an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR), which is issued following an inspection of the property’s electrical systems.

This certificate serves as proof that the electrical installations have been checked and deemed safe for use. It also highlights any areas that need improvement to ensure ongoing safety. It’s important to remember that an electrical safety certificate doesn’t last forever and may need renewing based on the type of property and its use.

What Does an Electrical Safety Check Involve? 

An electrical safety check typically involves a qualified electrician inspecting the property’s electrical wiring, circuits, and other installations. The aim of this check is to assess whether the systems comply with electrical safety standards and to identify any potential hazards that could result in fire, injury, or damage to the property.

During an electrical safety check, the electrician will:

• Test all fixed electrical installations, including sockets, light fittings, and wiring.
• Ensure that the electrical system is correctly grounded and that circuit breakers are functioning.
• Check for overloaded circuits or faulty wiring that could pose a risk.
• Identify any outdated electrical components that may need replacing to comply with current standards.

An electrical safety certificate will be issued once the inspection is complete, outlining the results of the check. This document is crucial for landlords, as it is often required by law for rented properties.

How Do I Find My Electrical Safety Certificate? 

For homeowners and landlords, knowing where to find your electrical safety certificate is essential. After an inspection, your electrician should provide you with a copy of the EICR. If you’re unsure where yours is, it’s worth checking with the electrician or company that performed the safety check. It’s also good practice to keep a record of these documents, as they may be required during property sales or rental agreements.

How Long Does an Electrical Safety Check Take?

The time required for an electrical safety check can vary depending on the size of the property and the complexity of its electrical installations. Larger commercial properties, or homes with more complex wiring, may take longer. 

It’s advisable to schedule an electrical safety check every 5 years for rented properties, though homeowners may choose to have checks performed more frequently, especially if there are concerns about the condition of the electrical system.

Understanding the Purpose of Electrical Safety Checks

Electrical safety checks are about more than just regulatory compliance. They help to ensure the ongoing safety of anyone who lives or works in a property. Without regular inspections, there’s a higher risk of electrical faults going unnoticed, which could lead to more serious issues like electrical fires or shocks. Furthermore, ensuring that all electrical systems meet electrical safety standards can also improve the overall efficiency of the system, potentially lowering energy costs.

Electrical Safe Isolation Procedure: Why It Matters

Safe isolation is a fundamental procedure for anyone working on electrical installations. Whether you’re performing maintenance, repairs, or new installations, ensuring that the electrical system is safely isolated prevents electrical shock and other hazards.

What is safe isolation in electrical work? In simple terms, it’s the process of ensuring that an electrical circuit is completely de-energised before any work is carried out. Following the correct electrical safe isolation procedure involves using specific testing equipment to confirm that no live current is present in the circuit.

Safe Isolation Course: Enhancing Electrical Safety Skills

City & Guilds Training – Electrical is the leading provider of electrical training courses for beginners and qualified electricians, and we offer a Safe Isolation Course that provides both theoretical and practical training in electrical safety. This one-day course is aimed at beginners or individuals from allied trades who want to improve their understanding of electrical isolation procedures. 

Participants will also gain insight into the latest safety regulations and how to apply them in their daily work. Whether you’re new to the field or an experienced electrician looking to refresh your skills, this course provides valuable training in one of the most important areas of electrical safety.

Ensuring electrical safety is essential for both individuals and businesses. From understanding the importance of electrical safety certificates and regular inspections to learning safe isolation procedures, electricians and property owners alike can benefit from enhanced safety knowledge. Regular safety checks not only help prevent accidents but also ensure compliance with UK regulations. If you’re looking to improve your skills in electrical safety, consider taking the Safe Isolation Electrician Training Course offered by City & Guilds Training – Electrical, which can help you stay up to date with best practices and ensure a safer working environment.

The post The Importance of Electrical Safety in Everyday Practice appeared first on Tradeskills4u.

What is a qualified electrician?

Qualified electricians in the UK are individuals who have achieved at least NVQ Level 3 or an apprenticeship standard. This can be evidenced through qualifications, equivalent historic qualifications, or experienced worker assessment. Qualified electricians can undertake work across a range of electrical installations in domestic, commercial, and industrial settings.

Typical work includes:

• Installation of power and lighting circuits
• Installation of electrical containment using a range of cable supports
• Termination of conductors
• Initial verification and certification
• Maintenance of existing electrical installations

If you have not yet started your training or are partly qualified, check our ‘become an electrician’ webpage or read our blog on how to become an electrician.

Why upskill?

Qualified electricians may wish to upskill by gaining additional qualifications and undertaking CPD (Continuing Professional Development) courses to diversify the work they can undertake. This can enhance their job prospects, increase employability, and allow them to undertake a wider range of tasks.

Electricians are also required to keep up to date with industry standards, which can be evidenced by updating their BS 7671 Wiring Regulations qualification.

What options are available?

At City & Guilds Training – Electrical , we provide a range of upskilling opportunities for qualified electricians including the following.

Green technologies

• Design, Installation and Maintenance of Solar Photo-Voltaic (PV) Systems
• Design, Installation and Maintenance of Electrical Energy Storage Systems (EESS)

Electric Vehicle Charging

• C&G 2921-31 Design and Installation of Domestic and Small-Commercial EV Charging Installations (Replaced by 2921-34 from September 2024)
• C&G 2921-32 Design of Domestic and Large-Scale EV Charging Installations
• C&G 2921-33 Installation and Maintenance of Largescale EV Charging Installations
• 2921-34 Design and installation of domestic and small commercial electric vehicle charging installations. (Available from September 2024 and replaces the 2921-31)

Inspection and Testing

• C&G 2391-52 Inspection and Testing of Electrical Installations
• Inspection & Testing Refresher (In-centre)
• Inspection and Testing Online Refresher Course (eLearning)
• C&G 2377-77 EET / PAT Testing Course

Wiring Regulations

• C&G 2382-22 18th Edition Course
• 18th Edition Amendment 2&3 CPD Refresher Course

Electrical Design and Verification

• C&G 2396 Electrical Design and Verification

Fire Alarms and Emergency Lighting

• Design, Installation and Maintenance of Emergency Lighting Systems
• Design, Installation and Maintenance of Fire Alarm Systems

Electrical Safety Management

• Authorised/Competent person low voltage (APLV/CPLV) course

Bespoke training courses

Do you have a specific requirement to upskill your existing staff? We can develop a bespoke course to suit your business upskilling needs, simply contact our team today to find out more.

The post Courses for Qualified Electricians appeared first on Tradeskills4u.

• Installation and Maintenance Electrician (C&G 2346)
• Domestic Electrician (C&G 2347)

What Is An EWA?

The EWA is a structured assessment process that validates the skills and competencies of experienced electricians. It recognises occupational competence for individuals who have several years of hands-on experience in electrical installations or maintenance but lack formal qualifications. Completing the EWA, including the final competence assessment AM2E(D), qualifies applicants for an ECS gold card application, which is recognised as equivalent to an industry apprenticeship according to the Electrotechnical Assessment Specification.

Requirements For An EWA

To be eligible for an EWA, candidates must meet specific criteria:

• Experience: A minimum of 5 years in electrical installations or maintenance, or 3 years for the domestic route.
• Qualifications: At least a Level 2 technical qualification.

To complete an EWA, you must have:

• An up-to-date Wiring Regulations qualification
• Complete a Skills Scan via an initial assessment with a member of our team.
• An Initial Verification Inspection and Testing Qualification such as the C&G 2391-52
• Complete the EWA Level 3 performance units

What Is Involved In An EWA?

The EWA involves several key components:

• Skills Scan: An initial assessment to determine eligibility and identify skill gaps.
• City & Guilds Level 3 Electrotechnical in Dwellings Experienced Worker Qualification (2346-03)
• Training and Evidence Collection: Gathering evidence of on-site competence through witness testimonies, reflective accounts, photographic evidence, and direct observations.

The following elements are not included in the cost of this qualification and must be booked separately if you require them:

1. Level 2 Diploma in Electrical Installations
2. Wiring Regulations Qualification
3. Inspection and Testing Qualification
4. AM2E Assessment of Competence

Once you’ve gained the Experienced Worker qualification, you’ll need to undertake the AM2E at an independent NET centre. Once you successfully gain the AM2E, your Experienced Worker Assessment process is complete. Note: The AM2E is not conducted as part of this qualification and is not included in the cost of this qualification. You can find out more by visiting the NET website.

How Long Does It Take To Complete The EWA?

With your assessor’s support, you can complete this qualification in as little as 6 months, however, this will depend on how readily you can generate the performance evidence that is required and whether you need to undertake any training to gain the required elements such as BS 7671:2018 or Inspection and Testing qualifications. This qualification must be completed within 18 months.

How Is The EWA Assessed?

The assessment is site-based and does not generally require attendance in the centre. Communication with your assessor will be via email, telephone and online meetings

The units covered in this assessment include:

• The application of health, safety and environmental considerations
• Organising the work environment
• Application of design and installation practices
• Termination and connection of conductors
• Inspection and testing
• Fault diagnosis and rectification
• 18th Edition BS7671  (if required)
• Initial Verification Test and Inspection (if required)

Learning Outcomes

Through the EWA, budding electricians can expect to:

• Validate Skills: Officially document and validate their existing skills and knowledge.
• Fill Knowledge Gaps: Identify and address any skill gaps through targeted training.
• Achieve Certification: Gain formal certification equivalent to completing an apprenticeship.

Benefits Of Completing An EWA

Completing an EWA offers numerous benefits:

• Recognition: Official recognition of skills and competencies without the need for a traditional apprenticeship.
• Career Advancement: Qualifies for the ECS gold card, enhancing job prospects and credibility.
• Flexibility: Suitable for experienced workers looking to formalise their skills.

Getting Started

To get started with an EWA, candidates should:

1. Assess their eligibility based on experience and qualifications.
2. Contact Trade Skills 4 U to complete the skills scan.
3. Enrol in the relevant EWA program and begin gathering evidence of their skills and competence.

What If The EWA Is Not Right For Me?

If you are working in the industry but the Experienced Worker Assessment isn’t right for you at this time due to gaps in your knowledge or experience, don’t give up! It may be that you just need more time or experience in certain areas before you’re ready to apply. It’s always recommended you complete a relevant industry-approved Level 3 route, recognised by employers.

Check out our ‘Become An Electrician’ information page to find out more.

Start Your Experienced Worker Assessment With City & Guilds Training – Electrical

An Experienced Worker Assessment is an excellent pathway for experienced electricians to formalise their skills and gain industry-recognised qualifications. With City & Guilds Training – Electrical’s structured assessment programs, individuals can achieve professional recognition and advance their careers without the need for a traditional apprenticeship.

For more information on the specific courses offered, visit the following links:

• Installation and Maintenance Electrician (C&G 2346)
• Domestic Electrician (C&G 2347)

The post What is an Experienced Worker Assessment? appeared first on Tradeskills4u.

Identify your goals and interests

Before diving into the specifics of electrician courses, take the time to identify your goals and interests. Being an electrician covers a wide range of specialist applications in commercial, industrial, and domestic sectors. It pays off to research the different types of electrical work to determine which area resonates with you the most. Consider the type of environments you prefer working in and the kind of projects that interest you. Ask yourself where you see yourself five or ten years down the line? Do you aspire to start your own electrical contracting business, work on large-scale commercial projects, or specialise in renewable energy systems? 

It’s also important to consider the lifestyle you want to live and achieve within this field. Electricians often have the flexibility to work in different locations, whether it’s on construction sites, residential properties, or industrial facilities. Think about whether you prefer the structure of a 9-to-5 job or the variety and autonomy that come with being a self-employed electrician.

Having a clear vision of your future will help you choose a course that provides the necessary foundation for your career progression.

Research course types

Next, research the different types of electrician courses available, offering different levels of certification or specialisation, ranging from basic to advanced. 

Pathways to qualified electrician include:

• • C&G 5357 Installation and Maintenance Electrician Apprenticeship (Funded)
  • C&G 5393 Domestic Electrician Apprenticeship (Funded)
  • C&G 2357 Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Electrotechnical Technology
  • C&G 2346 Experienced Worker Assessment

Once qualified, you can look at additional courses so that you can specialise – and it really does pay off to stay with the same training provider, ensuring your training is high-quality from start to finish. Additional courses include:

• • Inspection and testing courses
  • PAT testing courses
  • Electric vehicle charging courses
  • Renewable technologies

Visit our electrical course page for details of all our available courses.

Check accreditation and certification

When selecting an electrician course, it’s crucial to ensure that the training provider is accredited and the qualifications they offer are recognised by industry bodies. Accreditation ensures that the course meets industry standards and that the qualifications you earn will be recognised by employers. 

City & Guilds  is one of the highest-regarded electrician training providers in the UK, focussing on delivering relevant experience in a superb learning environment from highly qualified trainers. Fully accredited, with a 90%+ pass rate and more people passing our courses than any other trainer in the country, it’s industry-focussed training that builds successful careers.

Read reviews and testimonials

To get a better understanding of the quality and effectiveness of a particular electrician course, read reviews and testimonials from past students. Look for testimonials on the training provider’s website or independent review platforms. Feedback from previous learners can provide valuable insights into the course’s strengths, weaknesses, and overall satisfaction level.

Choosing the right electrician course is a crucial step towards building a successful career in the field of electrical work. By identifying your goals, researching course types, checking accreditation, considering delivery methods, and scheduling options, evaluating course content, and reading reviews and testimonials, you can make an informed decision. Remember, investing in your future through proper training and qualifications is key to achieving your career aspirations as an electrician! Listen and read our countless students testimonials, real life reviews of City & Guilds training courses and facilities. 

Explore City & Guilds electrical training- formerly Trade Skills 4U

As you navigate through the process of choosing the right electrician course, consider exploring City & Guilds Electrical Training (formerly Trade Skills 4U). 

City & Guilds Electrical Training provides comprehensive and industry-approved courses that cover various aspects of electrical work, from domestic installations to commercial and industrial projects. Our courses are delivered through a combination of classroom-based training, practical workshops, and online learning platforms, ensuring a well-rounded learning experience.

To learn more about City & Guilds Electrical Training and our electrician courses, you can contact us directly at 0800 8564448. Our knowledgeable staff will be able to provide you with further information and guide you through the course selection process.

The post How to Choose the Right Electrician Course for You appeared first on Tradeskills4u.

The main reasons for the current skills shortage are as follows;

• The UK’s Net Zero Strategy: Build Back Greener 

Which include the ban on all new diesels and petrol cars by 2030, the Gas Boilers Ban coming in place next year which will see the introduction of Heat Pumps for all new builds and the evolution of greener technology.

• The Scaling EV infrastructure to meet net-zero targets

The increase demand for EV charging point installers means that existing electricians will benefit from up-skilling by completing the EV Charging Point Installer Course. Read more about re-skilling and up-skilling in the electrical industry by reading this blog.

• Increase demand for skilled workers & construction project

Skilled workers are ageing, returning to the EU and/or rethinking after furlough creating a skills vacuum. Demand for general electrical maintenance work is at an all time high. 

Train to become an Electrician with us!

We currently offer 4 key routes to become an electrician to allow everyone to train and up-skill as an electrician in the UK.

• New Entrants – 4 Steps Electrical Training Programme.

This is a self-funded route which includes NVQ and AM2 at the end of the programme.

The post UK Electricians Shortage & High Demand for Skilled Workers appeared first on Tradeskills4u.

We have created the 4 Steps Programme that essentially mirrors the traditional electrical apprenticeship route but for adult learners and career changers – this is the ideal route for reskilling in the electrical industry.

Reskilling in the electrical industry

The UK Government’s post-pandemic mantra “Build Back Better” is currently in jeopardy due to a UK-wide shortage of skilled workers (source Financial Times).

Our 4 Steps Electrical Course programme is the ideal entry route for prospective electricians – we believe it is the gold standard of electrical training to prepare you for the real world.

If you are looking to become an electrician and are yet to find work in the electrical industry, the 4 Steps Programme is the recommended route. If you are already employed in the electrical industry and/or if you find an employer we can flip you to a funded Electrical Apprenticeship instead.

Read our latest explainer blog which provides answers to commonly asked questions regarding our Electrical Apprenticeship programme – if you need more information please call our team on 0800 8564448.

Upskilling After the Pandemic

If you are an existing electrician, why not consider upskilling with one of our electrical courses for experienced workers?

• C&G 2346-03 NVQ Course for Experienced Workers.

If you have over 5 years of experience and have not completed an industry apprenticeship or equivalent Level 3 NVQ, then this is the ideal course for you. What’s more – you can complete this course remotely and our team experienced teaching team will be there every step of the way helping you to gather the evidence necessary to complete your portfolio. Complete the NVQ Application at this link and a member of our team will get back to you.

• EV Charging Installer Course 

The UK EV infrastructure is set to ‘creak under demand’ with a 250,000 gap expected (source Current News). Upskill as an EV Charging Point Installer and take advantage of the growing demand – we offer EV Courses online and in-centre. Simply visit this link to see our list of available courses and dates.

• Electrical Inspection & Testing courses 

View our list of Electrical Inspection & Testing courses at this link – location and course dates are available on our site on each course page.

• Other electrical courses for existing electricians

We offer a wide range of online and in-centre electrical courses for existing electricians. We have dates available for 18th Edition courses, Electrical Design courses, PAT Testing, and Solar PV courses.

Are you ready to book or need more info?

Our team of electrical course advisers is ready every weekday to answer all your questions, call them on 0800 8564448 or get in touch via the website at this link.

The post Electrical Upskilling & Reskilling After the Pandemic appeared first on Tradeskills4u.