ECN Forum Forums Code Related Discussion NEC & other Code issues What is a "Qualified Person"

Sparky,

It is a sad thing that the public does not usually see anything except the "Bottom Line" (how much does it cost?) when it comes to Electrical work. I was on a service call at a home where the Owner had wired his own Hot Tub to save money, but had hired a landscaper to sprinkle grass seed around some bare spots in the lawn (It is also possible that the Landscaper did it). He had used a 3 wire cable to wire it with - 2 conductor plus bare ground for a 120/240 v tub. (Bare Ground was used as a Neutral) Anyway, I always think that this person thought nothing of wiring this Tub (Electricity & Water?) but didn't trust himself to rake some dirt and sprinkle grass seed. Something is wrong here! The public is not getting the message about the dangers involved in Electrical work not being performed properly. Since Electrical work is something that is largely a hidden thing they feel very bad about having to pay for it. So they will give the job to anyone who says they can do it.

I am curious as to why some areas of the country still do not have a Licensing rule for Electrical work. I thought that governments were supposed to have the Public Safety in mind and why wouldn't they include this? If licensing is the wrong word (some areas) I apologize, what I mean is that My opinion is that Anyone who does Electrical work for some one else should have the proper training and credentials to prove it and also carry a minimum of Insurance to cover. This can be by State, City, whatever - but this means that someone is watching out for the public and assuring that code minimums are met. This would also have the effect of putting all bidders on the job at an equal position and the owner can compare "Apples to Apples"
Where's the downside to that?

Just my opinions,

Bill

Give me Apples vs. Apples and I'd be a happy man, but the reality is just not so. The inspectors in my state , as well as I, have to deal with your hot tub guy every day. They are unfortunately understaffed, and lack the legislative "teeth" to properly deal with those scenarios. It should be noted that the punishment justifies the crime for most of the monkey's out there. Some time ago, they convinced me into the IAEI, which can have an educating perspective on such matters. As an ex-fireman, and current EMT, i've seen firsthand what the "unqualified" can do , and wonder when all the morbidity and mortality statistics will amount to legislative action. I'm all for being qualified for my trade, most any serious sparky is. Tell any one of us in the trenches that we got to go the distance, and most won't have a problem. Create a double standard by which we do the time, while the monkey's are free to make the dime, and most will have a problem....

qualified person=me :0)