Electrician

An electrician is a person who fixes the wires and switches so that lights and outlets work the right way. Some electricians work in a building.

In the United States, electricians are generally classified as either lineworkers, who work on high-voltage utility distribution systems, or wiremen, who handle lower-voltage wiring inside buildings.^[1] Wiremen may specialize in areas such as residential, commercial, industrial, light industrial, or low-voltage systems (e.g., Voice-Data-Video or VDV). Additional specializations include control systems and fire alarm systems.

Electricians are typically trained at three main levels: Apprentice, Journeyperson, and Master Electrician.^[2] Apprentices are entry-level workers who receive a combination of formal classroom instruction and on-the-job training under the supervision of experienced electricians. This training period usually lasts between three to six years, during which apprentices earn a percentage of a journeyperson's wage. After successfully completing the apprenticeship and meeting local or national licensing requirements, an individual becomes a journeyperson—qualified to work independently in the electrical trade. With further experience, typically seven to ten years, and after passing a comprehensive examination, a journeyperson may become a master electrician. Master electricians have demonstrated advanced knowledge of electrical systems and codes and are often responsible for supervising other electricians, managing projects, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations.

Electricians use a wide variety of hand and power tools, including:

• Conduit benders
• Voltage testers
• Pliers (lineperson’s, diagonal, needle-nose)
• Wire strippers and cable cutters

Electricians face risks such as electric shock, arc flash, and burns. Safety practices include lockout/tagout procedures, grounding, and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) like insulated gloves, boots, and arc-rated clothing. In some cases, live-line work is performed using insulated tools. From 1992 to 2003, electrical workers accounted for 34% of all electrocutions among construction workers in the U.S.