Power Beat
Electricians play a pivotal role in preventing electrical fires by following safe practices during installations, repairs, and inspections. At a minimum, electricians should ensure all electrical wiring and components are installed according to current building codes and manufacturers' specifications. This includes using the right size wires for the amperage load, using approved materials, and properly securing all connections. During electrical inspections, electricians should identify and add...
Rising material prices and inflation, in general, are likely to continue to plague electricians and others in the trade service businesses, according to a new survey conducted by the business management software platform Simpro. In the survey, 20% of electrical respondents say they are more likely to face rising material prices this year, while 20% of owners, CEOs, and business managers in the broader category of trade service businesses are more likely to face inflation concerns. ongoing econ...
Packaging materials help to protect fragile electronics and electrical components from breakage. Small electrical devices and electronics are often packaged in individual plastic coverings within a larger box. Manufacturers use a variety of plastics to produce anti-static bags, pouches, film, and bubble wrap for electronics. single-use plastics Excessive consumption of single-use plastics and other packaging materials is an emerging concern in the electrical market. The use of plastic and n...
The electrical industry is expected to have a labor shortage of about 60,000 workers by 2026. A labor shortage in the electrical trade is not inevitable, but it is likely to continue if the industry does not take steps to address the issue. Like other skilled trades, the electrical industry is facing challenges that could contribute to a labor shortage, including an aging workforce, a lack of interest among younger generations, and competition from other industries. However, there are strategie...
Many economists are predicting a recession in 2023, although most agree business conditions should improve by the end of the year. For the electricals market, numerous factors are in play that can offset the downturn, and any projections must also consider the variables of the local market (rather than the national or international outlook). Economic weakness and challenges The Conference Board forecasts that economic weakness will intensify and spread more widely throughout the U.S. economy o...
As our transition to greener energy grows, so does the demand for copper, the highly conductive material at the heart of electrical applications. Copper is spooled up inside electric engines, concealed inside the walls of buildings, and stretched along city streets to transmit power from one point to another. Copper substitutes As demand for electric devices grows, copper supplies are strained, and prices increase. A substitute for copper with similar conductive properties would be especially...
The term ‘robotics’ refers to technology or machines that substitute or replicate human actions. ‘Human augmentation’ is another term, referring to the use of technology to reduce strain and fatigue as workers perform strenuous tasks over long periods of time. Hilti Group has introduced robots and semi-automated technologies to the construction trades. The role of these technologies in the construction market is to increase efficiency and accuracy, reduce costs, and dec...
Veterans make good job candidates. Military experience comes with a heightened work ethic and a sense of responsibility. Many veterans have experience working outdoors and with their hands. They are used to being team members. Coming out of the military, however, veterans may find themselves at a loss for a career path. “Veterans are used to getting up early, being on time, wearing a uniform, and they are dedicated and committed,” says Marvin Key, CEO and Co-Founder of ForgeNow, a t...
According to a report from the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC), large parts of the United States are at either ‘high’ or ‘elevated’ risk of electricity shortfalls this summer. Notably, a large swath down the middle of the country, including the Midwest US region, faces a potential for insufficient operating reserves of electricity in normal peak conditions. Electricity shortage in peak summer months Furthermore, most of the states west of the Miss...
The United Kingdom has been creating its own set of regulations on product safety and performance in the last several years. Before Brexit in 2020, regulations of product standards in the United Kingdom had been aligned with the European Union since 1974. Emblematic of that alignment was the use of the traditional CE mark on a variety of manufactured goods throughout the European Union, including the UK. Along with Brexit came the need to create a UK-only mark that served a similar purpose to...
Expert Commentary
While the technology sector was once considered the most desirable in terms of salary and job security, recent layoffs have exposed its vulnerability. Job security has always been a sought-after job b...
Even during the era of big business, most residential electrical service companies tend to be on the smaller end with less than 20% employing more than 100 workers. And, like most small businesses, e...
The promise of electric vehicles is closer to reality than ever before. New plans and investments at the federal level designate billions of dollars to move our country toward clean energy, including...
As the demand for power increases in the UK across growing domestic and industrial markets including the nuclear industry, so the need for reliable power generation, transmission, and distribution&nbs...
Electric wiring systems are mostly hidden and embedded in the construction, ceiling spaces, riser shafts, or wall cavities. Cables are installed in buildings by many different trades for different a...
