Generally, an electrician serves as a tradesman who works on the electrical wiring of homes, factories, buildings, transmission lines, stationary machinery, and equipment. However, contrary to what most people believe, an electrician is not an expert in all sectors. Each electrician specialises in a certain skill area or job focus with a distinct working environment.
The electrician for commercial structures differs from electricians of other specific needs. Therefore, before deciding on hiring an electrician, clients should first identify their needs and do a background check on the electrician’s industry expertise. Here is what you need to know about the difference between a commercial electrician and industrial electrician.
Who are the commercial electricians?
Commercial electricians provide electrical maintenance, repair, and safety inspection within commercial settings, including offices, retail shops, and related workplace. They are also capable of planning and designing an electric systems diagram specific to the needs of the workplace, as well as electrical conduits that the local electrical codes require.
They primarily work with hand tools, such as pliers, knives, screwdrivers, power and monitoring tools. They can work with a wide range of clients, which include office staff, builders and building owners. They are typically found working for medium to large businesses, such as government buildings, shopping malls, and restaurants.
Compared to industrial electricians, an electrician for commercial needs is more common. To become a decent commercial electrician, one needs to complete relevant education and post-apprentice courses. Some commercial electricians view their expertise as a foundation to become an electrical engineer.
When should you hire a commercial electrician?
If the clients operate an office, business or franchise, they may need to seek the expertise of a commercial electrician for power and electricity needs. People who require rewiring, installation or cable-laying might also need a commercial electrician.
The following are examples of tasks the commercial electricians can perform:
- Rewire existing equipment or install a new one
- Maintain or repair heating and cooling systems
- Install electrical components, such as lights and switches
- Install a security alarm system
- Design an effective electrical system or work on existing blueprints
- Complying with the nation’s guidelines for electrical and wiring systems
- Lead an electrician team and train apprentices
Who are the industrial electricians?
Industrial electricians, on the other hand, test, repair, and maintain electrical equipment. They usually work in plants, mines, and factories. These sectors need advanced knowledge and expertise to manage a wide range of complex machinery.
In Australia, most industrial electricians are found working with steel manufacturers, mining companies, car producers, and huge electrical agencies. They perform various kinds of jobs but mainly focus on pneumatic, hydraulic, and other operative machinery types.
To become a good industrial electrician, one needs to undergo many years of apprenticeship training, as well as obtain relevant qualifications and certificates. Aside from the basics, an industrial electrician should have robotics skills, expertise in specialised equipment utilised in these sectors, and be adaptive and flexible in dealing with high-voltage systems.
When should you hire an industrial electrician?
Industrial electricians help ensure that the operation of a big factory runs smoothly and makes sure critical machinery systems are well-maintained, safe, and remain effective. They also carry out the following jobs:
- Install a new electrical system
- Troubleshoot an electrical equipment
- Maintain and repair vital equipment
Although both commercial and industrial electricians belong to the same electrical profession, each focuses and specialises on two distinct areas of expertise. Knowing the difference between these two professions would help you decide on the right electrician that fits your needs or projects.
