FINAL BILL REPORT

SHB 1848

C 78 L 03

Synopsis as Enacted

Brief Description: Exempting the installation, maintenance, and repair of certain medical devices from electrician licensing requirements.

Sponsors: By House Committee on Commerce & Labor (originally sponsored by Representatives Conway and Chandler).

House Committee on Commerce & Labor

Senate Committee on Commerce & Trade

Background:

All electrical installations and all materials, devices, appliances and equipment used in such installations must meet certain electrical safety standards. A person in the business of installing or maintaining equipment that conveys or is operated by electric current must have an electrical contractor license. A person working in the electrical construction trade must have an appropriate certificate of competency. There are a number of exemptions to these general requirements.

Any device used in the diagnosis or treatment of disease or injury which does not violate the federal Medical Devices Amendment of 1976 is deemed to be in compliance with all requirements imposed by state law on electricians and electrical installations. This federal law was enacted to ensure the safety and effectiveness of medical devices. It established a comprehensive regulatory scheme administered by the federal Food and Drug Administration.

Summary:

The installation, maintenance, and repair of medical devices deemed in compliance with all requirements imposed by state law on electricians and electrical installations are exempt from electrical licensing and certification requirements. Such work must be performed by qualified factory engineers or third-party service companies with equivalent training. Such work does not include providing electrical feeds into power distribution units or installation of conduits and raceways.

Votes on Final Passage:

House 90  0

Senate 47  0

Effective: July 27, 2003