Republic Act No. 7920: The Electrical Engineering Law

Republic Act No. 7920, or the Electrical Engineering Law, is a significant piece of legislation in the Philippines that governs the practice of electrical engineering in the country. This law was enacted on March 1, 1995, to regulate the profession, ensure the safety and reliability of electrical systems, and maintain high standards in electrical engineering practices.

The law provides clear guidelines on the qualifications, licensing, and responsibilities of electrical engineers, technicians, and electricians. It also outlines the regulatory powers of the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) and the Board of Electrical Engineering, which are responsible for overseeing the profession.

Objectives of RA 7920

• Protect the public by setting professional standards for electrical engineering practice.

• Promote the growth of the electrical engineering profession in the country.

• Establish guidelines for licensing, examination, and practice of electrical engineers and electricians.

• Enhance national development by ensuring a reliable and safe supply of electricity.

Key Features of RA 7920

1. Scope of Practice: RA 7920 defines the scope of electrical engineering practice, including the design, installation, construction, maintenance, and supervision of electrical systems and equipment. This includes work on power generation, transmission, distribution, and utilization, as well as the design of electrical installations for residential, commercial, and industrial buildings.

2. Licensing Requirements:

   • To practice as an electrical engineer in the Philippines, individuals must pass the Electrical Engineering Licensure Examination conducted by the PRC.

   • The law requires that only licensed electrical engineers (EE) can sign off on electrical designs and plans for large-scale projects. For smaller installations, registered master electricians (RME) and electrical technicians are authorized.

   • The law also covers the licensure requirements for electrical technicians and electrical practitioners at various levels, ensuring that professionals meet the standards of competence and ethics.
     
     

3. Professional Practice: The law sets out the responsibilities of electrical engineers in the practice of their profession. These include adhering to established safety standards, ensuring the proper installation of electrical systems, and maintaining the integrity of electrical designs and equipment.

   • Electrical engineers must also ensure that their work complies with the Philippine Electrical Code (PEC), which lays down the standards for electrical installations and safety procedures.
     
     

4. Board of Electrical Engineering: RA 7920 establishes the Board of Electrical Engineering, which is responsible for regulating the profession. The Board conducts licensure exams, issues licenses, and enforces ethical standards and professional conduct within the industry.

   • It also oversees continuing education for electrical engineers to ensure they remain updated on the latest technological developments and industry standards.

5. Penalties for Violations: The law also provides penalties for individuals or entities that engage in electrical engineering practices without proper licensure, or who violate the standards and ethical practices outlined by the law. These penalties ensure that only qualified professionals can handle electrical installations and safety, protecting both practitioners and the general public.

6. Continuing Professional Education: RA 7920 mandates that electrical engineers must undergo continuing professional development (CPD) activities to maintain their licenses. This helps ensure that engineers stay informed about technological advancements, industry best practices, and evolving safety standards.

Categories of Licensed Electrical Practitioners

Under RA 7920, there are three types of licensed professionals:

1. Registered Electrical Engineer (REE)

• Can design, plan, install, maintain, operate, and supervise electrical systems up to a certain capacity.

• Required to pass the Registered Electrical Engineer Licensure Examination.
  
  

2. Registered Master Electrician (RME)

• Focuses on hands-on installation, operation, and maintenance of electrical wiring, equipment, and apparatus.

• Typically deals with lower voltage and smaller installations.

• Must pass the Registered Master Electrician Examination.
  
  

3. Professional Electrical Engineer (PEE)

• The highest rank in the profession.

• Can design and sign electrical plans for major projects.
  Must have years of experience as an REE and submit a technical report (plus pass a board evaluation) to become a PEE.

Important Provisions You Should Know

• Only licensed individuals can sign, design, or supervise electrical works

• All electrical plans for buildings must be signed by a licensed electrical engineer.

• Unlicensed practice is punishable by law.

• The Board of Electrical Engineering (BEE) under the PRC manages all regulatory functions like licensing and discipline.

• Safety is a priority — all installations must comply with the Philippine Electrical Code (PEC).

Why RA 7920 is Important?

• Public Safety: The primary goal of RA 7920 is to ensure that electrical installations and systems are safe, reliable, and effective. With the growing reliance on electricity for homes, businesses, and industries, it is critical to have trained and licensed professionals handling electrical work to avoid accidents, fires, or system failures.

• Professionalization of the Industry: The law promotes the professionalization of electrical engineering in the Philippines by setting clear qualifications and standards. This leads to better quality work, greater accountability, and a stronger industry overall.

• Legal Framework: RA 7920 provides a legal framework for addressing issues related to electrical engineering practice, offering a system for certification, regulation, and penalties for violations. This strengthens the industry’s credibility and ensures that electrical engineering work meets national and international standards.

Conclusion

Republic Act No. 7920 is the backbone of the electrical engineering profession in the Philippines. It protects public welfare by ensuring that only qualified and licensed professionals work on electrical systems — promoting safe, high-quality, and ethical practices in all electrical works across the country.

For a complete and more detailed understanding, you can refer to the full text of RA 7920 available from official government sources.