The Accelerated Procedure for Electrical Work (TPA)

The accelerated procedure for electrical work [in French: Travaux électriques selon Procédure Accélérée (TPA)] was introduced in October 1996. It allows the contractor to carry out minor electrical installation jobs (about 350 a year) independently. The special features of the TPA are that the number of hours to be worked is limited to 16 and the cost to less than 1000 CHF. This procedure has substantial advantages for both the requesters and ST division. Firstly, the requester benefits from direct contact with the contractor, prompt action and simplified invoicing. In addition, ST division, relieved of ordinary minor work, can concentrate on larger-scale projects and can take advantage of a simplified system of administration. The author sets out the course of the procedure, its advantages and drawbacks, the statistics and the results of a satisfaction questionnaire. This procedure could be adapted and extended to other operations linked to future contracts.