The Energy Commission has held its 25th Electrical Wiring Certification and Awards Ceremony in Tamale, with 181 out of 192 candidates passing the examination, representing a 94 percent pass rate.
The ceremony was held under the theme, “Setting the Standards: Powering Ghana’s Future – EV, Solar and Beyond.”
Speaking to Filla News, an officer of the Energy Commission’s Regional Office in Tamale, Mr Samuel Owusu, said the Commission conducts annual examinations to certify electricians who successfully meet the required standards.
He said about 185 candidates received certification packages covering the domestic, commercial, industrial and inspector categories.
Mr Owusu noted that there are now approximately 13,000 certified electricians in northern Ghana and about 20,000 nationwide.
He, however, expressed concern about the low participation of women in this year’s examination, noting that electrical work remains largely male-dominated.
He encouraged more women to consider careers in the electrical sector.
Mr Owusu also urged the newly certified electricians to continue upgrading their skills, particularly in emerging areas such as solar photovoltaic systems, battery storage and electric vehicle technologies.
He cautioned electricians against compromising safety standards, stressing the need to use approved materials and the correct cable sizes.
He further warned certified electricians not to allow uncertified persons to work under their certificates, saying the electrician whose name appears on a certificate would be held responsible for work associated with it.
The Assistant Chief Fire Officer Grade One, Joseph Koranteng, also underscored the dangers of faulty and substandard electrical wiring, describing it as a major contributor to fire outbreaks and the resulting loss of lives and property.
He commended the enforcement of the Electrical Wiring Regulations, 2011 (L.I. 2008), saying it has helped reduce the activities of unqualified electricians and improve electrical safety.
He urged electricians to use standard-quality wires and other approved materials, while calling for stronger collaboration among the Ghana National Fire Service, Ghana Standards Authority and electricity authorities to investigate the causes of electrical fires.
He said the training and certification programme should be strengthened and expanded to further improve electrical safety.
The Northern Regional Manager of the Ghana Standards Authority, Mr Basim Alhassan, said certification comes with a professional responsibility to protect lives and property, comply with safety standards and uphold integrity.
He drew attention to the growing use of solar power, electric vehicles and battery storage, saying the changing energy landscape presents new opportunities and responsibilities for electricians.
Mr Alhassan expressed concern about the widespread use of substandard electrical cables and accessories, warning that such materials can make even properly designed electrical installations unsafe.
He urged electricians to comply with GS 1009, the Ghana Wiring Code, and purchase certified electrical products from reputable suppliers rather than selecting materials based solely on price or appearance.
He said the Ghana Standards Authority is strengthening cable quality control through cable-testing equipment in Tamale and pilot testing under the Electro-Vigilance Project.
Mr Alhassan encouraged electricians to keep pace with emerging technologies and regulations, educate customers on electrical safety and never compromise safety for convenience or cost.
The newly certified electricians were commended for their commitment to both theoretical and practical training and encouraged to uphold professionalism as certified electrical wiring profes.
Source:Fiilafmonline/Walkiyatu Issahaku
