When it comes to electrical work, there are many different types of electricians with varying levels of expertise. New South Wales (NSW) has two main types of electricians: regular electricians and Level 2 ASP electricians. This blog post will explore the key differences between these two types of electricians.
Normal/Regular Electricians
Regular electricians are qualified to perform essential electrical work, such as installing and repairing electrical systems in homes and commercial buildings. They are trained to work with low-voltage electrical systems, typically up to 240 volts. This includes installing lighting fixtures, power outlets, and electrical appliances.
Regular electricians must hold an Electrical Contractor Licence issued by the NSW Department of Fair Trading. This licence ensures they have the qualifications and experience to perform electrical work safely and competently.
Level 2 ASP Electricians
Level 2 Accredited Service Provider (ASP) electricians are qualified to work with high-voltage electrical systems, typically up to 11,000 volts. They are authorised by the NSW Department of Planning, Industry, and Environment to perform more complex electrical work, such as installing and repairing overhead and underground power lines.
Level 2 ASP electricians must undergo additional training and hold an ASP licence issued by the NSW Department of Planning, Industry, and Environment. This licence ensures they have the necessary skills and knowledge to work with high-voltage electrical systems safely and effectively.
Level 2 ASP electricians are responsible for various tasks, including installing and repairing service lines, connecting properties to the electricity network, and performing disconnections and reconnections.
Key Differences
The main difference between regular and Level 2 ASP electricians is the voltage of the electrical systems they are qualified to work with. Regular electricians are qualified to work with low-voltage systems, while Level 2 ASP electricians are qualified to work with high-voltage systems.
Another key difference is the types of electrical work they are authorised to perform. Regular electricians are authorised to perform essential electrical work in homes and commercial buildings. In contrast, Level 2 ASP electricians are authorised to perform more complex electrical work involving overhead and underground power lines.
Training and Experience
Level 2 ASP electricians must undergo additional training and hold more experience than regular electricians. This training includes specialised knowledge in installing and repairing electrical systems and equipment, such as power poles, transformers, and switchboards.
Safety
Both regular electricians and Level 2 ASP electricians are required to follow strict safety regulations when performing electrical work. However, Level 2 ASP electricians work with high-voltage systems, which carry a greater risk of injury or death if not handled properly. For this reason, Level 2 ASP electricians undergo more rigorous safety training and are held to a higher safety compliance standard.
Cost
Level 2 ASP electricians typically charge more for their services due to their specialized knowledge and training. However, when it comes to work involving high-voltage systems, it is essential to hire a qualified and authorised Level 2 ASP electrician to ensure the safety and reliability of your electrical system.
Emergency Response
Level 2 ASP electricians are often called upon to respond to emergencies, such as power outages, electrical faults, and storm damage. They are trained to work quickly and safely in these high-pressure situations and have the authority to perform emergency repairs and restorations to the electricity network. Regular electricians have different levels of authority or training in emergency response situations.
The main differences between regular electricians and Level 2 ASP electricians in NSW are the voltage of the electrical systems they are qualified to work with and the types of electrical work they are authorised to perform. While both types of electricians are highly trained and qualified, Level 2 ASP electricians have the additional skills and knowledge required to work with high-voltage electrical systems, making them an essential part of the electrical industry.
Authorisation to Work on Electrical Networks
Level 2 ASP electricians are authorised to work on the electricity network owned by the local electricity distributor. This means they are qualified to perform work on the network that brings electricity to your home or business, while regular electricians are not.
