XN000022-1996-10-09 — Page 41

(c)

(d)

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24

whether employers can refuse to issue certifying documents to employees regarding their working experience; and

how the authorities verify the accuracy of the certifying documents regarding working experience?

Answer:

(a)

(b)

(c)

(d)

During the five years ending on 31 August 1996, 44,266 persons whose qualifications satisfied the requirements of regulation 4(2) of the Electricity (Registration) Regulations were registered for Grade A electrical work.

An applicant for registration as an electrical worker is required under regulation 9(b) of the Electricity (Registration) Regulations to submit to the Director of Electrical & Mechanical Services documents that the Director considers are relevant to the applicant's registration or qualifications for registration. An applicant may satisfy the Director as to his relevant working experience by submitting certificates or letters issued by his current or previous employers describing his practical experience in electrical work while in their employ. The applicant may also submit for the Director's consideration other relevant documents which can help to verify his working experience in electrical work. Such documents may include, for example, tender documents for electrical installations that he has undertaken. or certification from owners of the electrical installations concerned or from his supervisors.

There is no provision under the Electricity Ordinance or its subsidiary legislation to require an employer to issue documents certifying an employee's working experience for the purpose of registration as an electrical worker.

In the event of doubt over the accuracy of documents submitted in support of an application, the Director may verify the applicant's working experience by approaching his employer or supervisor, installation owners or other parties concerned, or visiting his workplace.

End