Electrician for Commercial
What we do as a Commercial Electrician and Installation Company
At Electrical Installation Services (EIS), as a commercial electrician we undertake a wide range of commercial electrian projects. Electrical services cover the full design, installation and commsiioning of the following project types
- Overall Electrical Installations
- Electrical Relocation
- Electrical Testing
- Commercial Lighting
- Data Centres
- Data Cabling
- Audio Visual
In addition, we also have a vast experience in different types of commercial spaces and with different types of commercial installations. Past commercial spaces have included the following
- Offices
- Schools
- Hotels
- Warehouses
- Retail
- Bars and Restaurants
- Sports Facilities and Stadiums
- Listed Buildings
We have a range of installation options and range of experience in most types of commercial buildings
What does a commercial electrician do?
A commercial electrician is responsible for the installation and maintenance of electrical systems in commercial buildings. Generally, they focus on one area of expertise, such as wiring or lighting. In addition, commercial electricians work in office buildings, factories, schools, hospitals, hotels and other public or private buildings.
In the UK, the two recognised awarding organisations are EAL and City & Guild. To practice as a fully qualified (domestic) electrician you must hold a level 3 certification. Additionally, all individuals must complete the AM2 assessment. The college course that are as follows:
Level 2
- City & Guild – Building services ‘electrical installation route’
- EAL Intermediate Diploma in electrical installation
Level 3
- City & Guild level 3 building services ‘electrical installation route’
- EAL Advanced diploma in electrical installation
However, commercial electricians are expected to complete further training to expand their knowledge. What’s required?
- Level 3 NVQ qualification
- Diploma in Electrotechnical services (electrical maintenance)
- Level 3 Diploma in Installation of electrotechnical systems & equipment
Commercial electrician daily tasks
- Installation, Repairs, and maintenance of electrical wiring for buildings including lighting fixtures, circuit breakers, power outlets and switches.
- Connect wires to support equipment such as computers or other technology devices.
- Connect wires from utility power lines to electrical equipment in buildings.
- Install junction boxes and other hardware for mounting lights, switches, and outlets.
- (Fault finding) Test electrical circuits with a voltmeter or other testing device to ensure that wiring is working properly.
- Make wire connections between terminals on switches, panels, and junction boxes.
- Connect electrical terminals to devices such as switches, circuit breakers and outlets.
- Test electrical circuits with a voltmeter or other testing device to ensure that wiring is working properly.
- Installation, Repairs & Maintenance of security systems and fire alarms
Looking to hire a commercial electrician?
Make sure they have the required qualifications and experience! A Level 3 NVQ and other industry recognised qualifications are a must, as well as being competent in issuing BS 7671 certificates. Equally important, you must check reviews and case studies before making your final decision. By following these tips, you can be sure to find a reputable and professional electrician for your business.
Further advice
- Look for an electrician with experience in commercial work. As a result, they will have the knowledge and skillset necessary to handle the unique challenges of working in a business setting.
- Make sure the electrician is insured and licensed. This guarantees protection for both parties in case of an accident.
- Ask for referrals from family & friends. Chances are, someone you know has had to hire a commercial electrician in the past and can recommend someone good.
- Get quotes from multiple electricians before deciding. This allows you to compare prices and services so that you can find the best fit for your business.
Hiring a commercial electrician can be daunting. However, following these tips will help make the process easier. Trust us – your business depends on it!
EICR Certification
EICR is short for Electrical Installation Conditioning Report. The purpose of this test is to show that the wiring in your building is safe and correctly installed. In brief, a qualified individual will inspect every part of the electrical system. For example, equipment, switchgear, control gear and fixed appliances. Additionally, the inspection should also cover all conductors including cables entering or leaving any enclosures, and all consumer units, circuit breakers and residual current devices (RCD). An EICR test must be conducted periodically to evaluate the safety of your fixed wiring. Furthermore, these tests were put in place aa a preventative procedure to decrease the number of accidents & injuries caused by electrical fires or electric shock.
EICR tests should be carried out at least every 5 years. Higher risk environments will require more frequent testing, between 1 – 3 years. Below is a list of premises types and the testing requirements:
- Industrial Units – 3years
- Places of public entertainment – 3 Years
- Spar hotel and leisure centres – 3 Years
- Cinemas 1 Year
- Caravan Parks – 1 year
- Marinas – 1 year
- Petrol stations – 1 Year
Who can do EICR testing?
As we’re all aware, electrical work can be hazardous and should only be carried out by a qualified individual. Generally, the EICR qualification is completed by an individual who already works in the industry. The qualification requires you to have a foundation of electrical systems and you must be able to prove your competency. The qualification earned for fixed wired testing is a level 3 in periodic inspection and testing of electrical installations. For this reason, before you hire an electrician to complete your testing, you must check they hold the correct qualification.
Are commercial landlords responsible for electrics?
The Electrical Regulations Guidance issued by the government states that landlords and property owners are responsible for organising EICR tests for their properties. Additionally, the guidance highlights that failure to comply with these regulations can lead to a fine up to £30,000.
Landlords must have a EICR test prior to their tenants moving in. Furthermore, any detected hazards must be resolved before the tenant moves into the property. This applies to both commercial and residential properties. The regulation states, the EICR test must be conducted every 5 years as a standard. However, if the inspector thinks more frequent tests are necessary then this recommendation must be followed.
Legal responsibilities of a commercial landlord?
Like a private landlord, commercial landlords have the same requirements when it comes to electrical safety. The Landlord and Tenants act 1985 states that the landlord is to make the property safe prior to the tenant moving in. Furthermore, they must maintain the electrics in a safe condition for the duration of the tenancy. It’s important to realise, these terms will differ from contract to contract. In some cases, the tenant can be responsible for the maintenance of the electrical system.