Real-Life Communication -- Solution
"Wow," says electrical inspector Sheldon Dewhurst. "This place is a mess!"
In spite of the fact that this working area is much larger than the code requires -- it's 112 by 122 inches instead of 76 by 91 inches -- Dewhurst says this place definitely wouldn't pass inspection.
First, remember that you had to take out a flashlight to see and had to duck your head when you entered this working space. The code says, "There also must be illumination and sufficient headroom."
And here's another thing: the owner has a shelving unit up in the working space. The code says, "There shall be no storage in the working space and there must be an accessible entrance to this space."
This building receives a failing grade.
Being able to communicate with people is essential, says Mary-Beth Hull. As an electrical inspector, she works with many people every day and has to communicate clearly with each of them.
"Asking questions on a job site will reduce any problems later when the job is finished. You must make yourself very clear when speaking to the customer," she says.
Since electricity is potentially dangerous, Hull must ensure that everyone is clear about what's being discussed. She's found that paraphrasing key elements and repeating information back to the clients are good ways of clarifying things.