"Electricians battle through bad weather, says Electricfix
As March is named the coldest for over 60 years, Electricfix has found that just 10% of electricians resort to cancelling jobs due to weather conditions, according to insight research completed by the business in January 2013.
The majority (55%) state they continue to work through any bad weather that comes their way, with a further 22% instead working a reduced schedule.
Whether the forecasters predict floods, rain, snow or fog, most electricians carry on regardless, investing in appropriate clothing (31%) or stocking up essential products and tools (17%) to remain safe and comfortable while working.
A key trend identified in research by Electricfix was of tradesmen working smarter during periods of extreme weather. Instead of reducing their workload, many instead choose to prioritise indoor jobs, work closer to home or build in extra time when planning their journeys to take into account any road disruptions.
Staying in contact with customers, colleagues and suppliers is a key priority all year round, and even more so during bad weather. Electricians are embracing technology to help them do this, with three quarters owning a smart phone. In addition, research from Electricfix shows that electricians are using smart phones and tablets to purchase supplies for their business, with 98% planning to buy the same amount or more via these digital platforms in 2013.
Sandra Everett, senior marketing manager at Electricfix, comments, “For many self-employed electricians, taking a day off due to weather just isn’t an option. For most it means a loss of earnings and letting down valuable and loyal customers.
“To make sure our customers stay safe at all times, we are committed to making essential products, tools and workwear easily available to the tradesmen of Britain. We offer a quick and easy way for customers to purchase products at a time and place to fit in with their busy schedules. By simply selecting items from the catalogue, or online using our Click & Collect service, electricians can check if the products they require are in stock and then just collect them from the store five minutes later.”
http://electricaltimes.co.uk/news/article.asp?articleid=7152