When do you need a EC license

[zog]

Probably a very good idea


Actually, yes they can, we partner with a couple of different breaker testing outfits, and they have qualifiers for this very reason.

So they should call you so you can call a testing outfit you partner with, how does that make any sense at all?

 

[brian john]

So they should call you so you can call a testing outfit you partner with, how does that make any sense at all?

75%-85% of my work comes this way, not many end users know me, a lot of ECs do.

I am sure you know but there are certification programs for IR scanning, and most insurance companies (Not all) require certified thermographers to do the scanning, not "Billy Joe Jim Bob" and his new IR camera.

You can get a level one certification in less than a day from the local IR camera salesman, he'll include it your purchase. Still does not give one the expertise to diagnose electrical issues. The better IR schools back this philosophy (not qualified to make repair recommendations)

 

[roger]

So they should call you so you can call a testing outfit you partner with, how does that make any sense at all?

One reason for us is, in doing a factory substation and quite a few breakers during a "shut down", electricians will be doing a good portion of the work during these short periods of down time while the breaker testers are doing their part.


Roger

 

[jrannis]

Seems like when the guys from MGE or other companies that service UPS systems come in, they are working under the strict supervision of the plant electricians. These people are trained to work on a specific piece of equipment and all they do is upgrades and repairs.
Guys that come in to do breaker testing, same thing.
Battery guys, same kind of work but they have to do their stuff "hot"

I wouldnt think the average EC would offer to do specific work like the factory UPS upgrades and circuit breaker testing.
The battery work, I believe should be a bit of concern.

 

[brian john]

There is a difference between a factory tech and a contractor doing electrric work and not having the same licenes I have.

I guess another way to look at this is if they do not need a license why should I. This cost is a significant line item for any contractor and can delay one in starting a business as you try to figure out the maze of different county and city requirements.

 

[iwire]

I guess another way to look at this is if they do not need a license why should I.

I agree, so let you license go, stick to testing and hire ECs to do electric work. :smile:

IMO taking pictures of electrical equipment (which is what you are doing when doing IR) does not, nor should not require an electrical license.

Of course I am biased based on our rules where I am.

 

[cadpoint]

...75%-85% of my work comes this way, not many end users know me, a lot of ECs do.
...

You answered your own question, a professional calling in a professional.
I can even think about the liability issues you deal with.

Seems you could turn those numbers as listed above and expand your business! (easy for me to say)

In all cases its still your license that allows you apply your trade!

Should I say from what I read: They sure didn't offer your exact job description at Vo-Tech or HS Job Fairs and its always a pleasure just the same! :grin:

 

[brian john]

I agree, so let you license go, stick to testing and hire ECs to do electric work. :smile:

IMO taking pictures of electrical equipment (which is what you are doing when doing IR) does not, nor should not require an electrical license.

Of course I am biased based on our rules where I am.

Bob in my discussion with one county official, when he told me they were too busy to track down unlicensed contractors I asked what if I let my license lapse. He said "You can't do that, it is against the law to perform electrical work without a license." LIKE DUH.