Washington State
House of Representatives
Office of Program Research
BILL
ANALYSIS
Labor & Workplace Standards Committee
HB 1187
Brief Description: Allowing HVAC/refrigeration electricians to perform electrical work on split ductless HVAC systems.
Sponsors: Representatives Hoff and McEntire.
Brief Summary of Bill
  • Allows HVAC/refrigeration specialty electricians to perform work connecting the outdoor and indoor units of a split ductless HVAC system.
Hearing Date: 1/26/21
Staff: Lily Smith (786-7175).
Background:

The regulatory scheme for electricians consists of licensure for electrical contractors and certification for electricians, both administered by the Department of Labor and Industries (Department).  Anyone who works in the electrical construction trade must be certified as a journeyman or specialty electrician. 


There are several specialty electrician licenses available, with limited scopes of work.  Under the Department's rules, the HVAC/refrigeration specialty may perform certain electrical work within HVAC/refrigeration equipment and with low-voltage control circuit wiring or components, but is prohibited from other work outside of the HVAC/refrigeration equipment, such as generally on branch circuit conductors.  


Split ductless HVAC systems consist of an outdoor condenser and at least one indoor air delivery unit.  The units are connected by a refrigerant line and by electrical wiring, which consists of a dedicated branch circuit.   
Summary of Bill:

A scope of work for HVAC/refrigeration electricians is defined, and includes work on the branch circuit between the outdoor and indoor units of a split ductless HVAC system under specified conditions. 
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.