Electrical Contractor Employee Handbook Template

Electrical work is among the most dangerous trades. One mistake can mean electrocution, arc flash burns, or fire. An electrical contractor employee handbook isn't just helpful — it's essential for protecting your team and your business.

This guide covers everything you need to include in an electrical-specific handbook, plus a free template to get you started.

Why electrical contractors need a specialized handbook

Generic employee handbooks don't address the specific challenges electrical contractors face:

• Life-threatening hazards — Electrocution, arc flash, falls from ladders
• Strict licensing requirements — State and local licenses, continuing education
• Code compliance — NEC, local amendments, permit requirements
• Expensive equipment — Specialized tools, testing equipment, calibration needs
• Coordination requirements — Working with other trades, GCs, inspectors

A specialized handbook ensures every electrician understands safety procedures, licensing requirements, and company expectations from day one.

Download the template

Get started with our free employee handbook template. It includes all the standard sections, which you can customize with electrical-specific policies.

This is our general template. Add the electrical-specific sections outlined below to make it complete for your electrical contracting business. Need help? See our guide on how to create an employee handbook.

Key sections for electrical contractor handbooks

Beyond standard handbook content, electrical contractors need these specialized sections:

Safety policies to include

Electrical safety is non-negotiable. Document these critical areas thoroughly:

Lockout/Tagout (LOTO)

• When LOTO is required (always before working on circuits)
• Proper lockout device placement
• Verification procedures (test before touch)
• Group lockout procedures for multiple workers
• Lock removal protocols

Arc flash protection

• Arc flash hazard analysis requirements
• Approach boundaries (limited, restricted, prohibited)
• PPE categories and selection
• Labeling requirements for panels and equipment
• Incident energy calculations

Working near live circuits

• When energized work is permitted (rare circumstances only)
• Energized electrical work permit requirements
• Safe work practices near exposed conductors
• Voltage testing procedures
• Maintaining safe distances

PPE requirements

• Insulated gloves — Proper class for voltage, inspection before each use
• Safety glasses — Required for all electrical work
• FR clothing — When required based on arc flash analysis
• Hard hats — Class E (electrical) rating required
• Insulated tools — Voltage-rated tools for live work

Licensing and certification requirements

Electrical work requires proper licensing in every state. Your handbook should clarify:

State and local licensing

• Apprentice, journeyman, and master electrician requirements
• Supervision ratios (apprentices to journeymen)
• Scope of work for each license level
• Reciprocity with other states (if applicable)
• Consequences for working outside license scope

Specialty certifications

• Low voltage — Fire alarm, data/communications, security
• High voltage — Utility work, substations
• Renewable energy — Solar installation certifications (NABCEP)
• Manufacturer certifications — Specific equipment training

Continuing education

• Hours required for license renewal
• NEC code cycle updates (every 3 years)
• Company-sponsored training opportunities
• Time off and reimbursement for training

Code compliance policies

Electrical work must meet the National Electrical Code (NEC) and local requirements:

NEC compliance

• Current NEC edition adopted in your jurisdiction
• Code book access and updates
• Training on code changes
• Documentation of code-compliant work

Permit and inspection procedures

• When permits are required
• Who pulls permits (company vs. individual)
• Scheduling inspections
• Handling inspection failures
• Maintaining permit records

Template vs. digital handbook

Electricians work across multiple job sites. Consider whether a digital solution works better:

Frequently asked questions

What should be in an electrical contractor employee handbook?

An electrical contractor handbook should include electrical safety procedures (lockout/tagout, arc flash protection, PPE requirements), licensing requirements, NEC compliance policies, tool and equipment policies, vehicle use, and emergency procedures for electrical incidents. Plus all the standard employment policies like anti-discrimination, leave, and benefits.

Do electrical contractors need employee handbooks?

Yes, electrical contractors benefit greatly from handbooks due to the high-risk nature of electrical work, strict licensing requirements, and code compliance needs. A handbook documents safety procedures, ensures OSHA compliance, and protects against liability. Many electrical contractors are small businesses — even with a few employees, a handbook is essential for safety documentation.

What safety policies should an electrical handbook include?

Electrical safety policies should cover lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures, arc flash protection and PPE categories, working near live circuits, insulated glove requirements, ladder safety, and emergency response for electrical shock or burns. Reference NFPA 70E for industry standards.

How do I address code compliance in the handbook?

Document which NEC edition your jurisdiction has adopted, any local amendments, permit requirements, and inspection procedures. Include policies for staying current with code changes and training requirements for code updates.

How do I get electricians to acknowledge safety policies?

Have each employee sign an acknowledgement form confirming they've received and read the handbook. This is critical for electrical contractors — documented safety training acknowledgments protect you in case of OSHA audits or incidents.