The Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) has named May as National Electrical Safety Month. While we take electrical safety seriously every day, now is a good time to remind ourselves and our clients why being safe – especially in this industry – is so important.
Whether for commercial or residential work, choosing a licensed electrical contractor who is adamant about following all safety protocol is extremely important. For many people who understand how dangerous improper electrical work can be, these reasons are common sense. But still, we come across situations every day that are just a disaster waiting to happen. Most of these problems could have been avoided by hiring a licensed electrician from the get-go.
We understand the dangerous nature of our work and can’t stress enough the importance of choosing a trained professional for electrical work. Before looking up those DIY YouTube videos or hiring an unlicensed electrician for the job, here are some things to consider.
1. Liability and Financial Responsibility
We hate to say it, but not everyone has the common sense to play it safe with electricity. Hiring your college buddy’s nephew to rewire your shed might not be the best idea. By hiring an unlicensed, uninsured handyman for something as dangerous as electrical work, you’re accepting a pretty big liability, even if you’re getting a good “deal.” Fashion designer Aldo Gucci expressed it well: “The bitterness of poor quality is remembered long after the sweetness of low price has faded from memory.” Is saving a few bucks worth the risk of putting yourself and others in danger? Probably not.
2. Quality of Work
Just because the lights turn on, doesn’t mean that the electrical work behind the scenes is right. A licensed electrical contractor who follows safety procedures will get the job done right (read: safely). Faulty electrical work can pose a serious fire hazard. We come across situations every day where an unlicensed handyman or DIY homeowner wired something themselves, and in doing so, created a major hazard. Luckily, we are able to remedy these situations and save homeowners some grief.
3. Keeping Themselves and Others Safe
In new home construction or remodels, several contractors may be working in the same area. If one contractor doesn’t hold up his end of the “safety bargain,” he could easily be putting other contractors in danger. Likewise, an electrician who isn’t following safety standards can be putting himself at risk of electrical shock. A licensed electrician will come to the job prepared with proper safety equipment, as well as knowledge of building codes and safety standards.
Finding good electricians can be hard. Trust us, we know! Luckily, we have done the hard work for you. Our team is composed of some of the most highly-skilled, trained, and knowledgeable electricians in Indianapolis. So, please! Play it safe with electricity – just call us!
