IEC ED Niel Dawson Update – April 3rd
By now you have probably started to settle into the “new normal,” which is changing day-by-day. Like most of you, I occasionally need to stop and ask myself “is this real?” Then go about my business, and like you, I am thankful for the electrical industry that we are fortunate to be a part of. We are also thankful for all of our members and will continue to do whatever we can to support you. Most of you are probably being inundated with information from updates, webinars and alerts, therefore we are trying to balance what we send, and also boil down lengthy new regulations into a practical, usable format such as we’ve done below.
Workforce Needs
Most members are currently not reporting major interruptions on jobsites other than industrial jobs. Please continue to update us if you need to layoff, loan, borrow or hire workers. Updates can be sent to me or Julie.gunter@iecatlantaga.org We are launching an online interview platform where you can see and hear applicants answering a series of typical questions an electrical contractor would ask.
Shelter-in-Place/Essential Worker Document
With Governor Kemp’s new “shelter-in-place” executive order that goes into effect April 3rd, it is extremely important that you provide your workers with the Essential Worker Document that is posted on our website at www.iecatlantaga.org/coronavirus. We have seen a number of articles that municipalities have started, or will start to give out fines for not obeying the “shelter-in-place” executive order. Please have all your employees keep this document with them at all times.
Governor Issues NEW Executive Order on Plan Review & Inspections/Virtual Notary
The newly released Executive Order on March 30 allows private plan review and inspections by Qualified Private Providers (ACEC) or (AIA) on previously exempt projects in OCGA 8- 2-26-(17) which include hospitals, ambulatory health care centers, nursing homes, jails, penal institutions, airports, buildings or structures that impact national or state homeland security, or any building defined as a high-rise building in the State Minimum Standards Code. Additionally, on March 31, the Governor signed an executive order authorizing the use of realtime audio-visual communication technology to assist in notarizing real estate documents.
Apprenticeship Classes Will Continue Online Through April 30th at Minimum
We are diligently working to provide virtual labs, videos and other resources for all 700+ apprentices as they continue their classes online. Contractor members were sent a fall class schedule and billing policy for the 2020-2021 school year this week. All new first year apprentices should apply online now.
Online CEU classes are being rolled out now, including Code by the Article and 2020 NEC Code Changes-watch for registration coming soon.
Supply Chain Webinar Next Week
We are working with a number of manufacturers and suppliers to present a webinar on the potential supply chain disruption that is more than likely coming. Some causes are evident, while others, not as clear cut. Whatever the cause, contractors must plan more than ever to have the proper materials needed for their jobs not only for today, but for the next 6 months. Watch for the announcement coming soon.
IEC American Red Cross Blood Drive Postponed
Due to a shortage of Red Cross workers, they are unable to staff the planned IEC blood drive on April 10th. However, to give blood, which is so desperately needed right now, use this link and put in your zip code to find the drive closest to you. Giving blood is exempt from “shelter-in-place” – just have your appointment confirmation printed and with you. Hey, it’s a great way to get out of the house!
SBA COVID-19 ECONOMIC INJURY DISASTER Loans – Apply Here
Paycheck Protection Program
Starting April 3, 2020, small businesses and sole proprietorships can apply for and receive loans to cover their payroll and other certain expenses through SBA lenders – Overview – Application Form
INSERT_FIRST_NAME, thank you for your continue support of IEC Atlanta/Georgia. Please let us know how we can help.
Stay Well!
