As a worker, it’s crucial to ensure that your pay matches the prevailing wage rates required by law. Recently, I experienced an issue where I was underpaid due to a discrepancy in my pay. After contacting HR, I discovered that two wage increases had occurred, which I had not been compensated for. The good news is, once HR reviewed the issue, my pay was adjusted with a $3.85 per hour increase. Here’s how you can verify that you’re being paid the correct prevailing wage. 1. Understand Prevailing Wage Rates Prevailing wage rates are set by local or federal guidelines, often based on the area you’re working in. These rates can…

In the electrical trade, safety isn’t just a guideline; it’s a requirement. Every day, electricians are exposed to potential hazards, from live wires to heavy equipment. Ensuring that both you and your team are safe on the job site should always be a priority. This article provides essential tips for mastering jobsite safety, minimizing risks, and creating a culture of safety in your workplace. 1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Personal protective equipment (PPE) is your first line of defense against jobsite hazards. Some of the most important PPE for electricians includes: 2. Proper Equipment Handling Handling electrical tools and equipment safely is critical to jobsite safety. Here are some best…

Electricians rely on a set of core tools for daily tasks. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting, these tools are essential for handling electrical work efficiently and safely. Here’s a breakdown of the most commonly used tools that should be in every electrician’s toolkit. 1. Bandsaw Used for cutting through metal or PVC pipes, the bandsaw is a versatile and precise tool, helping to cut conduit and other materials. 2. Impact Drill An impact drill is powerful and ideal for drilling through tough materials like wood, metal, or concrete. It’s a go-to tool for many electricians when installing junction boxes and outlets. 3. Drill A standard drill is…

In today’s uncertain job market, navigating layoffs can be a daunting task. However, with the right strategies and mindset, it’s possible to dodge layoffs and secure your position within your company. Here are some tips based on my personal experience of successfully avoiding the first wave of layoffs at my workplace. By implementing these strategies and maintaining a proactive and positive attitude, you can increase your chances of dodging layoffs and securing your job in today’s competitive work environment. Remember to stay adaptable and continuously improve your skills to remain valuable to your organization.

Excitement and nerves filled me as I prepared for my first day as an electrician apprentice. The dispatcher had advised me to arrive at least half an hour before the job began, but my eagerness led me to the job site a whole hour earlier. Eager to embark on this new journey, I was introduced to my journeyman mentor, Ben, a seasoned professional who appeared to be in his 50s+ with a friendly, stocky build. To my surprise, the day’s task involved upgrading the HVAC system, which struck me as unusual for electricians. However, it became clear that our role was focused on the electrical aspect of the upgrade. As…