House Bill (HB) 2546 was adopted during the 2010 legislative session and raises the requirements for trainees’ classroom training to 48 hour per renewal period. This requirement is to be phased in.
- To renew on or after July 1, 2011, trainees must have 32 hours of classroom training.
- To renew on or after July 1, 2013, they must have 48 hours.
The intent of this bill is to improve the trainees’ educational process and knowledge – they will be better electricians.
Trainee Class requirements (Basic Classroom Electrical Training) are found in chapter 296-46B-970(4) (b)(i)(D), they are:
- Classroom instruction only.
- Based on the electrical theory, use of the NEC, and/or use of the electrical laws/rules.
- Correspondence and internet classes are not allowed.
- All basic classroom electrical training classes must include an appropriate written examination.
- To complete the class, the participant must score at least 70% on the examination.
Recommendations:
- Don’t get behind on your trainee classes, plan ahead. Classes may not be available when you are.
- Renew on line and save 5% over mailing in or in person.
- If you don’t have the required Basic Classroom Electrical Training classes to renew, renew anyway. Your cost will be $44.70 (online) instead of the late fee of $62.50. However, you won’t be able to work until you have the required trainee classes.
- Keep a log of your trainee hours. Note your job sites, supervising electrician, permit numbers and hours worked.
Puget Sound Electrical Training has been offering Basic Classroom Electrical Training since early 2007, and had the first two approved trainee classes by L&I.
The requirements in House Bill 2546 have not been adopted in the electrical rules in chapter 296-46B yet.
The electrical laws, chapter 19.28.161 (2) has the requirements for House Bill 2546, as outlined above. The copy of the Electrical RCW at the L&I Website does not contain the language in HB 2546.