ELECTRICAL
Electricians install electrical systems in structures; they install wiring and other electrical components, such as circuit breaker panels, switches, and light fixtures, and they follow blueprints, the National Electrical Code® and state and local codes.
To prepare trainees a career in the electrical field, NCCER offers a comprehensive, 4-level Electrical curriculum that complies with DOL time-based standards for apprenticeship.
Core
Core curriculum is designed as a rigorous, competency-based program for career and technical education. Core is a prerequisite to all other Level 1 craft curriculum. Completing this curriculum gives the trainee the basic skills needed to continue education in any craft area he or she chooses.
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Explains the safety obligations of workers, supervisors, and managers to ensure a safe workplace. Discusses the causes and results of accidents and he dangers of rationalizing risk. Reviews the role of company policies and OSHA regulations in maintaining a safe workplace. Introduces common jobsite hazards and protections such as lockout/tagout, personal protective equipment (PPE), and HazCom.
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Reviews basic mathematical functions such as adding, subtracting, dividing, and multiplying whole numbers, fractions, and decimals, and explains their applications to the construction trades. Explains decimal-fraction conversions and the metric system using practical examples. Also reviews basic geometry as applied to common shapes and forms.
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Introduces trainees to hand tools that are widely used in the construction industry, such as hammers, saws, levels, pullers, vises, and clamps. Explains the specific applications of each tool and shows how to use them properly. Also discusses important safety and maintenance issues related to hand tools.
Provides detail descriptions of commonly used power tools such as drills, saws, grinders, and sanders. Reviews applications, proper use, safety, and maintenance. Many illustrations show power tools used in on-the-job settings.
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Explains how ropes, chains, hoists, loaders, and cranes are used to move material and equipment from location to another on a job site. Describes inspection techniques and load-handling safety practices. Also reviews American National Standards Institute (ANSI) hand signals.
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Recognizing hazards associated with materials handling and explains proper materials handling techniques and procedures. Also introduces materials handling equipment, and identifies appropriate equipment for common jobsite tasks.
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Identifies the roles of individuals and companies in the construction industry. Introduces trainees to critical thinking, problem solving skills, computer systems, and their industry applications. Also reviews effective relationship skills, effective self-presentation, and key workplace issues such as sexual harassment, stress, and substance abuse.
Provides trainees with techniques for communicating effectively with co-workers and supervisors. Includes practical examples that emphasize the importance of verbal and written information and instructions on the job. Also discusses effective telephone and e-mail communication skills.
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Familiarizes trainees with basic blueprint terms, components, and symbols. Explains the different types of blueprint drawings (civil, architectural, structural, mechanical, plumbing/piping, and electrical) and instructs the trainees on how to interpret and use drawing dimensions.
Level One
Key content includes: Occupational Overview: The Electrical Industry, Safety for Electricians, Introduction to Electrical Circuits, Electrical Theory, Introduction to the National Electrical Code®, Device Boxes, Hand Bending, Wireways, Raceways and Fittings, Conductors and Cables, Basic Electrical Construction Drawings ,Residential Electrical Services, and Electrical Test Equipment.
Level Two
Key content includes: Alternating Current, Motors: Theory and Application, Electric Lighting, Conduit Bending, Pull and Junction Boxes, Conductor Installations, Cable Tray, Conductor Terminations and Splices, Grounding and Bonding, Circuit Breakers and Fuses, Control Systems and Fundamental Concepts.
Level Three
Key content includes: Load Calculations — Branch and Feeder Circuits, Conductor Selection and Calculations, Practical Applications of Lighting, Hazardous Locations, Overcurrent Protection, Distribution Equipment, Transformers, Commercial Electrical Services, Motor Calculations, Voice, Data, and Video, and Motor Controls.
Level Four
Key content includes: Load Calculations– Feeders and Services, Health Care Facilities, Standby and Emergency Systems, Basic Electronic Theory, Fire Alarm Systems, Specialty Transformers, Advanced Controls, HVAC Controls, Heat Tracing and Freeze Protection, Motor Operation and Maintenance, Medium-Voltage Terminations/Splices, Special Locations, and Fundamentals of Crew Leadership.
