Inside Wiremen install conduit, electrical wiring, fixtures, and electrical apparatus inside commercial buildings and in a multitude of industrial settings. Major duties for Inside Wiremen include:
• Planning and Initiating Projects
• Establishing Temporary Power during Construction
• Establishing Grounding Systems
• Installing Service to Buildings and Other Structures
• Establishing Power Distribution within a Project
• Planning and Installing Raceway Systems
• Installing New Wiring and Repairing Old Wiring
• Providing Power and Controls to Motors, HVAC, and Other Equipment
• Installing Receptacles, Lighting Systems, and Fixtures
• Troubleshooting and Repairing Electrical Systems
• Installing and Repairing Traffic Signals, Outdoor Lighting and Outdoor Power Feeders
• Installing Fire Alarm Systems
In performing these duties, Inside Wiremen must use many different kinds of tools, ranging from simple one and two-hand tools (such as pliers, screwdrivers, and cable-cutters) to power-assisted tools like electric drills and cable pullers. They occasionally operate heavy equipment such as trenchers and aerial lifts.
Over the course of the five-year Inside Wiremen apprenticeship program, apprentices must acquire a wealth of technical knowledge. A recent job analysis identified 83 specific knowledge areas that are important for successful job performance. A few of the most important ones are knowledge of:
• The National Electrical Code
• How to Work With Energized Circuits
• Blueprints (Including Symbols Used)
• Electrical Schematic Diagrams
• State and Local Electrical Codes
• First Aid
• Hazardous Materials
• Specific Job Safety Rules
Some of the most important skills to be learned are:
• Skill at Performing CPR
• Skill at Reading a Wire Table to Determine Conductor Size Required
• Skill at Terminating Aluminum or Copper Cable
• Skill at Terminating High Voltage Cable
• Skill at Splicing High Voltage Cable