JIB Grading For Electrician Standards.

The JIB or Joint Industry Board was set up in the 1960's to strike a balance between the union and employers association.Today it grades individuals according to their experience and qualifications and sets national standards regarding wages and health and safety issues. Grading can range from apprentice up through improver, electrician and approved electrician, anyone studying the apprentice route or the adult trainee route automatically fulfils the criteria for membership and grading.The JIB are also responsible for the ECS card, the Electrotechnical Certification Scheme proving health and safety competence. To gain this card you need to pass the multiple choice health and safety exam, which is set and marked by the JIB, and apply through the JIB's website using the grading form. They will send you a book of sample questions before you sit your exam and can advise you on your nearest centre.You can get grading at the same time if you submit your qualifications. The ECS is the electrical version of the CSCS (Construction Skills Certification Scheme) scheme and is designed to reduce the amount of accidents witihin the construction industry by promoting health and safety standards.The JIB defines several areas for grading individuals according to their qualifications and experience. Trainees that are following a recognised training route are invited to join with the ultimate goal of obtaining electrician status. There are more methods of gaining JIB status, these should be discussed with the JIB directly.Technician - The highest grade reserved for the most experienced operatives with their City and Guilds C Certificate or equivalent and relevant supervisory experience.Approved Electrician - Once you have been an electrician for approximately 2 years, you can do further study and apply for approved status giving an hourly pay bonus with JIB registered companies. The qualification used is usually the City and Guilds 2392.Electrician - Recognition that you have followed a recognised training route and have achieved electrician status. Generally, a technical certificate such as the City and Guilds 2330, 2351 or the 2360 combined with the NVQ Level 3 should enable you to get your CSCS card (ECS biased) through the JIB registration process.Improver - A grade for those competent for installation work but without the means to achieve the necessary qualification for full electrician status.Apprentice - A trainee electrician serving a recognised training route such as the City and Guilds Electrical NVQ 2330 and the NVQ Level 3 with either a college or an approved and accredited training provider. For many this is the route to become a fully apprentice trained electrician.